Understanding Repetitive Motions and “Stimming”
Content in this blog post: Causes and Effects Every person with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) experiences the condition differently, but repetitive behaviors are some of the most common behavioral manifestations of ASD. Parents often notice physical or verbal repetition in their children on the spectrum. This can involve repetition of certain words, phrases, or questions; […]
Autism and Unique Hobbies
Content in this blog post: Restricted and repetitive behaviors and interests, or RRBs, are very common in people with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). RRBs can express themselves in ways that are positive, such as a hobby or interest that brings the individual happiness, or negative, such as certain kinds of repetitive behaviors that can lead […]
Autism, Touch, and Affection
Content in this blog post: When you raise a child with autism, questions about affection are common. When it comes to autism and touch, each child is different in how they respond to touch. Common questions include, “Are children with autism affectionate?” and “Do people with autism have an aversion to touch?” Read on to […]
Developing Daily Living Skills for Those on the Spectrum
Content in this blog post: Improving the Quality of Life Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a developmental condition which many people experience throughout their lives. Some children with autism make significant developmental gains with treatment, losing some, or even all of the traits and symptoms associated with autism as they age. While studies have found […]
Autism and Family Involvement
Content in this blog post: Most parents are aware that treating their child’s autism spectrum disorder and supporting their growth will be a lifelong mission. Once parents get past the initial shock and the difficult feelings that can accompany such a diagnosis, the question arises as to how best to treat the child’s condition. After […]
Autism Spectrum Disorder and Sibling Dynamics
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a developmental disorder which can be greatly challenging for those on the spectrum, as well as for their families and loved ones. ASD’s effects on communication and socialization skills can be difficult for all members of a family. Siblings of children with ASD can sometimes feel confused, distanced, or isolated […]
Explaining an Autism Diagnosis to Your Child, Family, and Friends
A diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in a child can be an overwhelming experience for parents. One of the first questions many parents have in such situations is how – and when – to tell the child, siblings, friends, family members, and other loved ones about the diagnosis. Parents often fear misunderstandings, awkwardness, and […]
Transitioning to Adulthood With Autism
Adulthood in autism is a very important subject, particularly because of how we define what adulthood is. Where do we draw the line between a child and an adult? If we are being honest with each other, we know it isn’t age. People don’t magically become adults once they’re 18. Some start taking on far […]
Understanding Asperger’s in Relation to Autism
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a developmental condition with a variety of behavioral presentations. Some individuals with autism may experience difficulty with self-expression and the understanding of social cues. Others may struggle with motor skills, language, or executive function. Asperger’s Syndrome is a developmental disorder which has in the past been differentiated from or viewed […]
My Child Was Given an Autism Diagnosis: What Now?
While they may or may not have had an autism diagnosis, more than a tenth of Americans live with autism spectrum disorder, a condition that was unknown a century ago, and has become better understood over time both in the mainstream and within the psychiatric community. When it was first discovered, it was theorized to be a […]