The short answer: Many autistic children, especially girls and children with strong language skills, are not identified until later in childhood or even adulthood. Their differences can be quieter, and they often learn to copy others or hide their...
How Many Hours of ABA Therapy Does a Child Need?
The short answer: It depends on your child's goals. International practice guidelines describe focused ABA at about 10 to 25 hours a week and comprehensive ABA at about 30 to 40 hours a week. Your child's actual schedule should come from an...
Speech Delay vs Autism: How Parents Can Tell the Difference
The short answer: A child with a speech delay is slow to use words but still connects in other ways. They point, look at you, use gestures and enjoy playing together. In autism, the differences usually go beyond talking and show up in social...
The Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS)
The Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS) is an invaluable resource, which can be used with children and young people with Autism Spectrum Conditions and other communication difficulties. PECS does not require complex or expensive materials...
Autism-friendly strategies for encouraging physical activity
Several issues make physical activity less appealing for many people with autism. These include poor social and motor skills, a preference for screen-based activities, and a lack of exercise partners and autism-friendly opportunities for physical...
Why autistic children and teenagers behave in challenging ways
Challenging behavior in autistic children and teenagersIt’s common for autistic children to behave in challenging ways or ways that are difficult to manage.For example, autistic children and teenagers might:refuse or ignore...
What is autism spectrum disorder (ASD)?
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by the following:Difficulties in social communication differences, including verbal and nonverbal communication.Deficits in social interactions.Restricted,...
Behavioral Therapy for Autism Spectrum Disorder in Children
Early intervention by a team of specialists is critical for a child with autism spectrum disorder. This team may include a psychologist, a speech and language therapist, and an occupational or physical therapist. Through intensive treatment, these...
Diagnosing Autism Spectrum Disorder in Children
Autism spectrum disorder is a group of complex neurological and developmental disorders that affect brain development and cause social, communication, and behavioral challenges.People with the condition have difficulty with social interactions...
Understanding Autism and Assessment
The features of autism often appear during early childhood, and a reliable diagnosis is usually possible at the age of 2 years.However, many people do not receive a diagnosis until much later. Sometimes, having an early diagnosis helps...