People with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) frequently suffer from comorbidities. In addition to their ASD, these people frequently are afflicted with some other condition — whether it be psychiatric or physical — that can cause additional challenges in life. For example, 85% of children on the autism spectrum suffer from at least one psychiatric diagnosis, such […]
Diabetes1 is a serious condition that affects a significant number of people in the United States. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says that as of 2021, the crude estimate was that 11.6% of the total population in the U.S. had diabetes, with another 3.4% having potentially undiagnosed diabetes. On its own, diabetes […]
Obesity is a growing problem across all age cohorts in the United States. Childhood obesity is of particular concern, with the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reporting that nearly 20% of children between the ages of 2 and 19 are obese. Obesity is an even bigger concern among people who have autism spectrum […]
Many parents struggle trying to get their children to eat healthy foods. It’s certainly not an uncommon parenting challenge, but it’s more typical with parents of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Children who have autism are quite often picky eaters. They may prefer to eat only the same foods over and over again, refuse […]
Play is an important aspect of being a toddler. It helps young children understand the world around them, build relationships and interact with other children, and get physical exercise and exert energy. Playing tag and chasing is one common activity that many toddlers enjoy. Children who have autism spectrum disorder (ASD), though, may have struggles […]
Children who are diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) will likely face many challenges in life that their neurotypical peers don’t. This could include deficits with social interactions and communication, as well as challenges related to restrictive interests, repetitive behaviors and/or sensory sensitivities. Autism can span a very wide spectrum, with different people affected in […]
In the last 25 years, much progress has been made in the understanding of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Much research and studies have contributed to new screening tools, diagnostic methods and treatment methods. This research even resulted in the establishment of the ASD moniker in 2013, when five previously-independent but related developmental disorders were wrapped […]
Many people with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) also suffer from co-occurring conditions. This can make life even more challenging for people on the autism spectrum, depending on the severity of their ASD and what the other conditions they suffer from are. Children who have autism commonly suffer from auditory processing disorders. This doesn’t necessarily mean […]
Our understanding of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) has evolved and advanced significantly over the last 25 years. We now know that different children are affected by it in different ways, though it typically affects their behavior, social interactions and communication skills. We know some effective ways to provide support to children on the autism spectrum, […]
