Our understanding of what autism is has changed dramatically in the last 20 years. In 2013, the American Psychiatric Association coined a new term called autism spectrum disorder (ASD). In doing so, the organization essentially wrapped five disorders that were previously separate under one umbrella. These disorders, including Asperger’s syndrome and autism, shared a lot […]
People with autism commonly struggle with sensory sensitivities. These could manifest themselves in multiple ways, such as being hyposensitive or hypersensitive to certain stimuli, including touch, sound, smell, taste and light. Some people who have autism spectrum disorder (ASD) might struggle with strong odors, bright lights or certain textures. Conversely, some people with ASD might […]
Children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) face many challenges that neurotypical individuals often do not. This may include trouble with communication, social interaction or even some daily life tasks. In addition, children who have autism may experience sensory sensitivities that might be considered outside the norm. This could include having trouble with certain sensory inputs […]
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a wide-ranging neurodevelopmental disorder that can affect people from all walks of life in all different ways. There are many things that define it, including challenges with social interactions and communication, sensory sensitivities, restricted interests and repetitive behaviors. Not every person who’s on the autism spectrum will experience all of […]
One of the biggest misconceptions about autism is that people who have it are unaware of their diagnosis. The reality is that many people with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) are self-aware of the condition they have as well as how they are affected by it. ASD is a neurodevelopmental disorder that can affect people in […]
Applied behavioral analysis, or ABA therapy, has long been considered the leading treatment method for children who have autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Research has shown time and again that when ABA therapy can be started at a young age, children can have immense success building the social, communication and daily life skills they need to […]
Nutrition is an essential aspect of anyone’s life. An increasing amount of research is showing that there’s an overwhelming link between what you put into your body and not just your physical health, but also your mental health, your mental acuity, your behavior and more. That’s why it’s so important to eat a healthy, balanced […]
Individuals who have autism spectrum disorder (ASD) often have a deficit in their social communication. This is part of the diagnostic criteria that’s used for ASD, and it describes how they may not be on equal footing with their neurotypical peers when it comes to this skill. In many ways, children with autism simply have […]
If you have a child who has autism spectrum disorder (ASD), you might notice that they prefer to be alone. They might spend an inordinate amount of time playing by themselves, rather than joining in on group play activities with other children their age. They may even prefer to play alone or be alone when […]
