Every parent thinks negatively from time to time, but the negative and often fear-filled thoughts parents of autistic children struggle with can be off the charts because they are so different from the typical worries of other parents. Conquering these negative thoughts is not easy, but very important for the sake of your happiness as […]
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Many children with autism develop special interests and become so entranced with them that they spend much of their time talking about them with great enthusiasm. Initially, it can be astounding to hear an autistic individual share their knowledge and expertise on topics such as dinosaurs, bus routes, video games, insects, and the list goes
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Teaching Language and Communication to Autistic Children Dr. Temple Grandin, professor of animal science at Colorado State University and internationally renowned autism spokesperson, was one of the first autistic people who wrote about her lack of speech during early childhood. She gave us a rare glimpse into the autistic mind when she wrote, “Not being
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Teaching Language and Communication to Autistic Children Teaching language and communication to autistic children who are non-verbal can be extremely challenging. When it appears that all our efforts to teach them to speak are in vain and no progress is noted, we can be tempted to think that there’s no hope of improvement and that
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AUTISM AWARENESS AND ACCEPTANCE TO PREVENT BULLYING There has been a lot of talk about Autism Awareness and Acceptance through the years, and while we still have a ways to go, much has improved since my grandson was first diagnosed with autism in 2009. At that time, I knew next to nothing about autism, and
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The benefits of setting clear boundaries for children on the autism spectrum All children need rules and boundaries to help them know how to act appropriately in different settings and situations, and children with autism are no exception. Rules and boundaries will teach them skills they will need to be successful in life. But how
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It is estimated that 80% of children with autism also have sensory issues, if not Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD), as a comorbid condition. However, many parents, caregivers, and educators are not aware of the struggles this can pose for children on the spectrum. My attention was drawn to this again recently after a special education
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Grandparents can have a unique role in the lives of their grandchild with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). They can be a source of support, guidance, connection, encouragement, and love. According to Autism Speaks, “about 30% of grandparents were the first to notice that there was a problem with their grandchild’s development. Nearly 90% felt that the experience
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As a grandparent and full-time caregiver of a teenager on the autism spectrum, setting personal goals for the New Year isn’t something at the top of my to-do list anymore. In years past, I used to make resolutions that focused on self-improvement, such as losing weight or getting back in shape, finishing projects, etc. While
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Reinforcement or bribery: Is there a difference? Positive reinforcement is a powerful motivator. For children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), the purpose of using positive reinforcement in the classroom or at home is to shape better behavior and to help them learn new skills and maintain these skills over time. When covering this topic of
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