Blog
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Tips for Shopping with a Child with Autism
A trip to a busy shopping mall or grocery store can be grounds for sensory overload for many of us, but especially children with autism. There are many bright lights, crowds of unfamiliar people, and so much to look at and take in. Knowing the experience can be challenging, preparing your child in advance for […]
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Balancing Technology During Playtime
Technology is everywhere today: Our children have access to countless screens, whether it is through games on smartphones, tablets, computers and television. Can too much technology during playtime be harmful for our children? There is no definitive right or wrong answer, and every child is unique. However, it is generally a good idea to aim […]
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Keeping Children Active During Winter Break
For many children, winter break is an exciting time. Children are home from school and have free time to enjoy with friends and family. However, for a child with autism, the break from school can be an unwelcome disruption to a normal routine, and a lack of activity can cause your child to become restless. […]
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Explaining Tragedy to a Child With Autism
Have you ever struggled with how to talk to your child about tragedy? Whether it is a tragic event that has occurred somewhere in the world, or a personal tragedy involving a friend or family member, these occurrences can be very difficult to share with your child who has autism. In light of recent world […]
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Reducing Holiday Stress for Children with Autism
We are approaching the holidays, an exciting time for children, but also particularly challenging for a child on the autism spectrum. Consider normal holiday activities from the perspective of a child with autism: Visits to unfamiliar homes for holiday gatherings, or unfamiliar guests visiting your home; The sudden appearance of bright, noisy holiday decorations; Hectic […]
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Sesame Street Announces Autism Initiative
We were very pleased to see the introduction of a new nationwide initiative by Sesame Workshop, titled Sesame Street and Autism: See Amazing in All Children. The initiative, aimed at communities with children ages 2 to 5, includes a variety of resources, videos, and stories that celebrate the uniqueness of every child. The initiative also […]
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Exercise and Autism
Over the years, there have been many studies linking exercise to improved symptoms and behaviors in children with autism. This is not surprising, as physical activity truly makes us all feel better: It helps offset weight gain, is critical for overall health and well-being, can promote a positive attitude and state of mind, and is […]
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The Value of a Strong Morning Routine
Many families can relate to the struggle of the morning routine. Sometimes it might seem there is too much to accomplish in too little time: Making sure your children wake up on time, getting children washed up and dressed, preparing and eating breakfast, packing lunches… and the list goes on! While the morning routine can […]
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Is Your Child a Picky Eater?
Many children are picky eaters, with strong preferences about what they will and will not eat. Children with autism are even more likely to make mealtime a challenge. As you try to promote healthy and positive eating habits for your children, you may become discouraged when your child with autism exhibits extreme fussiness regarding the […]
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Building Self-advocacy in Children with Autism
As a parent, you are your child’s greatest advocate. In many situations, whether it is related to school, friends, or family, you may find yourself speaking up on behalf of your child’s unique needs. While this is normal and perfectly acceptable, it is also very important that, as your child’s advocate, you also encourage him […]