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

Text-to-speech (TTS) apps have become invaluable tools for children with autism, offering a means to communicate and express themselves more effectively. These apps can significantly improve social interaction, language development, and overall quality of life. However, choosing the right app requires understanding the unique features and limitations of each. Below, we explore the pros and cons of several popular TTS apps: Go Talk, Let Me Talk, LAMP, Proloquo2Go, PECS, Viapro iOS, and Nova Chat. 1. Go Talk Pros: User-Friendly Interface:

Summer is the perfect time to get creative with some fun, sensory-friendly crafts that can engage and entertain children with autism. These activities are designed to be simple, enjoyable, and beneficial for sensory development. 1. Sensory Bottle Materials: Clear plastic bottles, water, glitter, food coloring, small beads or sequins, glue Instructions: Fill a bottle halfway with water. Add glitter, beads, or sequins. Add a few drops of food coloring. Fill the rest of the bottle with water, leaving a small

Summer can be a great time for children with autism to engage in learning and play through the use of technology. Here’s a look at some apps and digital tools that can help make the summer both educational and fun.   1. Speech and Communication Apps   Proloquo2Go Description: A robust augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) app designed for individuals who have difficulty speaking. Benefits: Helps non-verbal children or those with speech delays communicate effectively using symbols and text-to-speech. Avaz

If you are anything like us, you are halfway through Summer and quickly running out of ways to keep your kiddo occupied. Luckily, Summer is a great time to encourage reading, and finding the right books can make a big difference for children with autism. Here’s a curated list of books that are engaging, beneficial, and enjoyable for kids on the spectrum. 1. “The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time” by Mark Haddon Age Range: 12+ Summary: This

When it comes to Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy, choosing the right provider can make a significant difference in the lives of children with autism and their families. The Helm stands out in the crowded field of ABA providers by offering a unique, personalized, and flexible approach to therapy that big box companies often can’t match. Here’s what sets The Helm apart: No Age Requirements Autism doesn’t end after age 7, and neither should therapy. Unlike many big box ABA

For a lot of children with autism and their families, heading for a day at the water park might be very overwhelming. But, if your kiddo enjoys bath time, then a fun day at the park may not be too far off. That’s why today we have some tips for transitioning a child with autism from the familiarity of a bathtub to the excitement of a water park with smooth, gradual steps. Here’s a personal guide to making the journey

If you were anything like us growing up, a summer day at the amusement park was something you looked forward to all year. The incredible rides and lifelong memories were completely worth the 100 degree heat and long lines. And while visiting amusement parks can be a thrilling experience for families, for those with autism, accessibility and accommodations are crucial for an enjoyable visit. Luckily for us, Six Flags Over Texas has taken commendable steps to ensure their park is