Holiday Schedule: Keep It Calm & Predictable

Holiday Schedule: Keep It Calm & Predictable

The holidays are a magical time of year, but for children on the autism spectrum, they can also feel overwhelming. The changes in routine, new social situations, and sensory overload can create challenges for kids—and their families. One way to ease holiday stress is...
Why is it Called the Autism Spectrum?

Why is it Called the Autism Spectrum?

Have you ever wondered why autism is called a “spectrum”? The word “spectrum” means a range, like a rainbow with different colors blending together. When people talk about autism as a spectrum, they mean that autism can look very different from one person to another....
ABA Therapy: Why Early Intervention is Best

ABA Therapy: Why Early Intervention is Best

ABA (Applied Behavior Analysis) therapy is one of the most well-researched and effective therapies for children with autism, helping them learn new skills and improve their quality of life. While it’s never too late to start ABA therapy, starting early has distinct...
Visual Schedules: Why They Work and How to Create One

Visual Schedules: Why They Work and How to Create One

For children with autism, having a predictable routine can make a big difference in their day-to-day lives. Visual schedules are a helpful tool that can show them what to expect throughout the day. These schedules use pictures or symbols to break down tasks and...
Halloween Costumes and Sensory Sensitivities

Halloween Costumes and Sensory Sensitivities

Halloween can be a super fun holiday, but for kids with autism or sensory issues, wearing a costume can feel uncomfortable. Some costumes have itchy fabric, tight masks, or even strange smells. Here are some tips to help your child feel comfortable and excited about...
Nutrition Tips for Picky Eaters with Autism

Nutrition Tips for Picky Eaters with Autism

Many children with autism are picky eaters, which can make mealtime a challenge. Sensory issues, food textures, and strong preferences can affect what they are willing to eat. However, it’s important for kids to have a balanced diet to stay healthy. If your child is a...

We have been a family blessed with the help of the team at The Helm. Our son was diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder when he was 2.5 and The Helm was one of the places recommended by our developmental psychologist. I am a physician and still found it hard navigating this new medical problem and knowing what to do next. I called many places and from step one Lee Ann was the most helpful explaining the process with paperwork, assessment, available services, insurance, etc. we were able to start therapy quite soon after diagnosis and had sessions at home daily for 3 hours. The quality of staff, the system they have in place for the therapists, the coordination by the BCBA supervising therapist and early response put us at ease that we were on the right path. Ultimately the steady positive changes we saw with our son overcame any fears we had about autism holding our son back for the rest of his life.

We used many forms of intervention that we felt were individually tailored for our family – for potty training, anger management, dietary intervention and even let them know when we could not maintain something suggested in family training, and they would just take our request and implement another plan. Our son has now graduated/transitioned out of therapy and is currently in pre-K in a regular classroom with him on par with his class in academics, has friends and no behavior issues. Most important of all we have a happy son who loves to play with his big sister.

I know that I will always read all there is on autism and watch my son for any features. But I hope my review adds to positive aspects that I wish someone would have told me when I started the journey – start early, don’t put off your suspicions, get your child evaluated now! The label does not hinder,  in fact it falls to the side once you have the diagnosis to facilitate therapy. ABA intervention, especially done with the right people, makes a big difference. It does not pressure or upset the child at all, and you are not stuck in therapy for life! I know if any behavioral issues come up in the future I have The Helm, and they will help us and the outcome is going to be positive. Said with heartfelt thanks.

– Former Helm ABA Family

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