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

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 their Halloween costume this year! 1. Start Early Get the costume early so your child has time to get used to it. Let them look at the costume, touch it, and even play with it.

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 picky eater, here are some helpful nutrition tips to try. Introduce New Foods Slowly Kids with autism may be sensitive to new foods. To help them try new things, introduce new foods one at

Exercise is important for everyone, including children with autism. Regular physical activity helps keep our bodies healthy and can also reduce stress, improve mood, and boost energy. For children with autism, finding the right exercise can be a little tricky because of sensory sensitivities or difficulty with coordination. But there are many fun and autism-friendly ways to get moving that the whole family can enjoy together! Here are some exercise ideas that are great for kids with autism and perfect

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