As a parent of a child with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), you may be thrilled if you observe your child active and engaged in their applied behavior analysis (ABA therapy) sessions. From the outside looking in, constant activity, long hours and a lot of drills may seem like they are contributing to your child building […]
Data is the foundation of applied behavior analysis (ABA therapy). As a science-based approach to learning and behavior, ABA therapy relies heavily on the collection and analysis of data so informed decisions can be made based on fact rather than conjecture. This approach to treatment helps effectuate positive outcomes for children with autism spectrum disorder […]
Struggles with communication and social interactions are two of the most well-known symptoms of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Yet, these signs often don’t present themselves in children until they are out of the infant stage and would start to interact and communicate with others. Because of this, many children aren’t diagnosed with autism until they […]
Children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) face many challenges in school environments that their neurotypical peers may not. In addition to social and communication deficits, they may also struggle with repetitive behaviors, restrictive interests and sensory sensitivities. With well-thought-out plans and approaches, inclusive classroom environments can be created to better support children on the autism […]
Children spend the early parts of their life surrounded by adults. Even if they have other siblings in the house, adults are the ones they have meaningful interactions with every day — for feeding, changing, comforting and playing. At some point as the child gets older and begins to become more aware of their surroundings, […]
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that children are born with and that affects them for their entire lives. One of the hallmark symptoms of autism is a deficit in communication. Yet, autism is not the same thing as a child experiencing a delay in speech or language. In fact, speech delay, language […]
In the early stages of development, children will often imitate what they observe others doing. Smiles, glances and early gestures are usually all imitations of their parents, caregivers, siblings and others they are around a lot. Imitation is actually a building block for cognitive and social skills. It has a profound influence on a child’s […]
When children are diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), doctors usually recommend that they receive specialized applied behavior analysis treatment. Also known as ABA therapy, it’s a science-based approach to learning that helps children with autism build the social, communication and daily life skills with which they tend to struggle. As the leading treatment option […]
Spotting the early signs of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) are key to providing children with the help and the support they need. The earlier these signs are identified, the earlier children can undergo full autism evaluations by a trained professional. Studies have shown that the earlier interventions can be started, the more effective they can […]
Joint play is a major opportunity for development in children, as it fosters the building blocks of social skills and communication. Children who have autism spectrum disorder (ASD), though, can struggle with joint play because they have trouble with joint attention. This is defined as the ability to share focus with another person on an […]
