As children enter their teenage years, the focus of applied behavior analysis (ABA therapy) often shifts. While early intervention prioritizes foundational communication and play, the adolescent years bring a new set of priorities, including independence and self-advocacy. For teenagers with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), developing functional life skills is about building the confidence to navigate […]
For families beginning their journey with an autism diagnosis, the path forward is often paved with questions. Applied behavior analysis (ABA therapy) provides the evidence-based framework for a child’s development, but a comprehensive support system extends far beyond the clinic walls. It also involves finding a community that understands, advocates and celebrates your child’s unique […]
In today’s digital age, social media is a primary landscape for social interaction, news and self-expression. For many children and adolescents, these platforms offer a way to connect with peers who share similar interests. However, the unwritten rules, rapid pace and sensory intensity of social media can present unique hurdles for individuals with autism spectrum […]
Nestled along the banks of the Catawba River, Belmont, North Carolina, offers a unique blend of small-town charm and a rapidly growing support network for neurodivergent individuals. For families navigating the path of an autism spectrum disorder (ASD) diagnosis, this community provides a close-knit environment where local advocacy and specialized programs are often just a […]
The relationship between a family and a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) is one of the most critical components of a child’s success in applied behavior analysis (ABA therapy). When things are going great, this relationship is a collaborative partnership built on mutual respect and a shared goal of helping your child reach their full […]
Being a parent of a child with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) can present many unique challenges. You can feel like you’re on an emotional rollercoaster at times, rotating between feeling proud and happy to confused, worried, sad, angry and even lost. Whether your child was just recently diagnosed with ASD or has been navigating the […]
Communication is one of the most complex skills a child will ever learn. While talking is often thought of as the primary goal, communication begins long before a child utters their first word. For many neurodivergent children, particularly those with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), gestures such as pointing, reaching or leading a caregiver by the […]
Finding the right support and local resources is an essential step for families navigating an autism spectrum disorder (ASD) diagnosis. In a growing city such as Charlotte, North Carolina, there is a wealth of community-based programs, educational centers and recreational activities designed to help children with autism thrive. At Blue Gems ABA, we understand that […]
Everyone gets bored from time to time, but the way it is felt and expressed can vary significantly from one person to the next. For neurotypical children, boredom often looks like a vocal complaint, restless wandering or seeking out a new toy. For children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), boredom doesn’t always follow this recognizable […]
