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When school (or The Helm) is out, kids have lots of free time—and parents might find themselves wondering how to fill the days with meaningful, engaging activities. For children with autism, keeping a structured routine is often key to avoiding meltdowns and maintaining balance. Here are some fun, sensory-friendly, and developmentally appropriate ideas to keep your kids happy and engaged during their break! 1. Create a Visual Schedule for the Week Start by laying out a clear visual schedule. This

Finding the perfect gift for a child with autism can be a joyful experience when you focus on items that cater to their unique interests and sensory needs. Here’s a list of specific products to consider this holiday season: 1. Sensory Toys These toys can provide soothing or stimulating experiences for children with different sensory preferences. Squishmallows: Soft, squishy stuffed animals that are perfect for sensory seekers. Tangle Jr. Fidget Toy: A quiet, portable toy for calming and focus. Kinetic

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 by creating a calm and predictable holiday schedule. Here’s how you can design a schedule that helps your child navigate the holiday season with confidence and joy. 1. Stick to Routines Whenever Possible Children on the

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. Just like colors on a rainbow, no two people with autism are exactly the same. Let’s talk about why it’s called the autism spectrum, what that means, and how doctors can diagnose autism when everyone’s

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 advantages. Early intervention taps into a unique period of brain development and growth, which makes it an ideal time to introduce new skills and positive behaviors. Here, we’ll explore the reasons why early intervention is preferred and how

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 activities, making them easier to understand. Let’s explore why visual schedules work so well and how you can create one for your child. Why Visual Schedules Work Reduces Anxiety Many children with autism feel anxious when

Online learning has become super important for families, especially those with children who have autism. Finding the right online platforms can help make learning easier and more fun for our kiddos. In this blog, we’ll explore some of the best online learning platforms that are designed to support children with autism. These platforms offer special features like simple designs, sensory-friendly activities, and tools to help with communication and learning. 1. ABCmouse.com What It Is: ABCmouse.com is a popular website with

Connecting with your child with autism can be a deeply rewarding experience, but it often requires a unique approach that respects their individual needs and interests. One of the most powerful ways to strengthen your bond is by engaging with their fixed interests – those topics, activities, or objects they are particularly passionate about. Here’s how you can use their special interests to build a deeper connection and support their development. 1. Understand and Embrace Their Fixed Interests Children with

As summer winds down, many of us are looking to get back to healthy habits after a few months of simply making it work. For children with autism, this transition can be especially important, as maintaining balanced nutrition and catering to sensory needs helps support their overall well-being. Here are some healthy and sensory-friendly snacks that can help you ease back into a routine, providing both nutrition and comfort as summer comes to an end. 1. Frozen Fruit Pops Frozen

As summer winds down, the back-to-school season brings a mix of excitement and anxiety, especially for children with autism and their families. The shift from the relaxed summer routine to the structured school environment can be challenging. However, with thoughtful preparation and support, the transition can be smoother and more enjoyable for everyone involved. Here are some practical tips for parents to help children with autism transition back-to-school successfully.   1. Start Early with Preparation   Create a Visual Schedule