Interwoven colorful ropes beside the title “What are the 5 Common Signs of Autism?” and the Blue Gems logo.

What are the 5 Common Signs of Autism?

Every child develops at their own unique pace, reaching milestones such as walking, talking and socializing on their own timeline. However, when parents notice subtle differences in how their young child communicates, interacts with others or responds to their environment, questions naturally arise. Recognizing early indicators of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is one of the […]

Hands holding three yellow faces showing different expressions beside text about social nuances, emotional regulation and environmental changes.

What are the Symptoms of High-Functioning Autism?

When a parent or caregiver begins noticing subtle differences in how their child communicates, plays or handles daily transitions, they often start searching for answers. During this process, many encounter the term “high-functioning autism.” While “high-functioning autism” is not an official clinical diagnosis,1 it is a common term used to describe individuals on the autism […]

Colorful looping ribbons surrounding the text “Women Diagnosed with Autism Later in Life” on a light blue background.

Women Diagnosed with Autism Later in Life

Receiving an autism spectrum disorder (ASD) diagnosis is a life-changing milestone at any age. While historically associated with early childhood evaluations, an increasing number of women are receiving their diagnosis later in adulthood.12 For many, discovering they are autistic in their 20s, 30s, 40s or beyond brings a profound sense of clarity, relief and validation.89 […]

Adult autism assessment graphic with a yellow light bulb, assessment text and Blue Gems branding on a blue background.

Adult Autism Assessment

For many years, autism spectrum disorder (ASD) was primarily viewed through the lens of childhood development. As public awareness grows and diagnostic tools evolve, more adults are beginning to recognize neurodivergent traits in themselves.1 Many individuals navigate years or even decades feeling subtly different, struggling in workplace environments or experiencing social burnout without understanding the […]

Preschool classroom with toys, child-sized furniture and text reading “Preparing for Preschool with Autism.”

Preparing for Preschool with Autism

Entering preschool is a major developmental milestone for any young child, but for a child with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), it represents a particularly significant shift in routine. Entering a classroom setting introduces a new sensory environment, unfamiliar social dynamics and structured group expectations that can feel overwhelming at first.1 For parents, preparing an autistic […]

ABLLS-R Assessment for Autism graphic displayed over an assessment checklist on a wooden desk with glasses, pen and tablet.

ABLLS-R Assessment for Autism

Starting a new therapy program or evaluating a child’s development can feel like a complex process for families navigating autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Every child possesses a unique blend of strengths, daily routines and areas where they need extra support. To create a truly effective Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA therapy) program, clinicians must first gain […]

Hands holding an “ASSESSMENT” sign with “VB-MAPP Assessment for Autism” displayed in the center.

VB-MAPP Assessment for Autism

Beginning an Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA therapy) program is an empowering step for families navigating an autism spectrum disorder (ASD) diagnosis. However, before targeted interventions can begin, a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) must establish a clear understanding of your child’s unique communication capabilities, social skills and learning style. One of the most trusted and […]

Ten Famous People with Autism

Updated September 2026 People who have autism spectrum disorder (ASD) face many challenges in life. Just like the name of the neurodevelopmental disorder suggests, the signs and symptoms as well as severity certainly spans a wide spectrum, with people affected in significantly different ways. Some of the most common challenges that people on the autism […]

Gestalt Language Processing and Autism graphic featuring a chalkboard with multilingual words and a person writing.

Gestalt Language Processing and Autism

Communication is a fundamental part of how children learn, build relationships and express their thoughts and feelings. However, not every child develops language in the exact same way. While many children learn language by building from individual words to complete sentences,2 some clinicians use the term Gestalt Language Processing (GLP) to describe a proposed pattern […]

Young boy holding a phone to his ear with the text ‘Delayed Echolalia and Autism.

Delayed Echolalia and Autism

Communication takes many forms. For children on the autism spectrum, expressing thoughts, needs and emotions doesn’t always follow a predictable path. Parents often notice their child repeating phrases, sentences or entire dialogues heard hours, days or even weeks earlier from a favorite cartoon, a parent’s gentle reminder or a classroom instruction. This pattern of speech […]