Many families become overwhelmed when a loved one is diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). However, knowing where to begin looking for help can be a relief. 

Many autism resources in Atlanta, GA, are available to help parents and children with ASD gain the tools necessary for success. 

Resource List for Children with Autism in Atlanta

Atlanta has many organizations aimed at helping those with developmental disabilities gain the help they need. 

Local charities, foundations, and support groups help families navigate the challenges of autism and discover aid and resources that may go overlooked.

Georgia Council on Developmental Disabilities

The mission of the Georgia Council on Developmental Disabilities (GCDD) is to work for societal and policy changes and promote opportunities for diverse people with developmental disabilities and their families to thrive in their communities. 

The GCDD educates leaders, legislators, and the general public about how to include those with developmental disabilities in community life. In addition, it connects families seeking support and resources with the right programs for their needs. 

Easterseals of North Georgia

Easterseals of North Georgia supports those with autism and their families. By providing education, advocacy, and outreach services to those affected by ASD, Easterseals helps engage families with their communities and sets everyone up for success.

This nonprofit offers everything from child development screening to vocational services to relief opportunities for overwhelmed caregivers. Easterseals prides itself on its on-the-ground support for those with developmental disabilities.

Parent to Parent of Georgia

Parent to Parent of Georgia is widely recognized as one of the best resources for families seeking help and support. 

This organization offers a wide range of resources to support those with ASD from birth until age 26. By matching families with peer support and beneficial services, Parent to Parent helps those navigating new challenges. 

Families seeking information on resources, training, special events, and more can use Parent to Parent’s extensive database to identify the help they need and find information on how to access those resources.

Marcus Autism Center

The Marcus Autism Center is among the largest autism centers in the U.S. It provides families affected by ASD with access to research, comprehensive testing, and breakthrough treatments.

The center serves as an essential resource for those with autism. It also actively works to share research and train educators and care providers to help those with autism live better lives.

Social Skills Today

Social Skills Today provides respite opportunities for caregivers of those with ASD and other developmental disabilities. The organization offers summer camps, mini-break camps during the school year, social skills groups, and overnight camps. 

Its work meets two critical needs: providing social and behavioral skills training activities in a safe and nurturing environment and giving caregivers a well-deserved break. 

Best Buddies

Best Buddies of Georgia is a nonprofit organization committed to forging friendships, integrated employment opportunities, leadership development, and inclusive living situations for those with developmental disabilities. 

It focuses on ending physical, social, and economic isolation for those with ASD and other conditions and empowering people with disabilities to form meaningful relationships and positive roles in their communities. 

Threshold Community Program

Threshold Community Program works with teens and adults with ASD who struggle to live active, purposeful lives and form meaningful connections with others and their communities. 

Through family and transition services, education, and wellness, Threshold Community Program encourages independence and growth.

Pure Hearts of Georgia

Pure Hearts of Georgia is a nonprofit organization supporting children and adults with intellectual disabilities and their families.

Pure Hearts offers yoga and fitness classes, dance and music therapy, adaptive sports, arts and crafts, and other activities to those who may have difficulty in traditional programs. 

It also offers education and training sessions to parents and families about critical, relevant topics, hosts family meet-ups, and holds sensory-friendly events.

Spectrum Autism Support Group

Spectrum Autism Support Group supports the Atlanta autism community through events, programs, and resources. 

Families affected by ASD can take advantage of monthly support groups, respite programs, and family camps. At the same time, those with autism can benefit from day and overnight camps and social skills groups.

ABA Therapy in Atlanta

Applied behavior analysis (ABA) therapy serves as the gold standard for supporting the developmental needs of those diagnosed with ASD. The ABA process works to understand, predict, and change behavior through the science of learning. 

This therapy effectively reinforces positive behaviors and reduces harmful behaviors. However, while ABA is a highly regarded approach, not all ABA programs are the same. 

High-quality ABA therapy is individualized to meet each child’s needs. When employed with care and respect, ABA therapy can increase communication and language skills, improve memory and social skills, and cultivate more extended periods of focus. 

Hidden Talents provides comprehensive at-home ABA therapy in Atlanta for your child regardless of where they are in their development and works with them as they develop the skills they need for success.

Autism walks bring the community together. They promote autism research and awareness and draw increased support for those affected by autism spectrum disorders. 

These events seek volunteers and participants who can bring attention and understanding to autism spectrum disorder. If you’re looking to help the autism community, Atlanta autism walks are a great place to start.

How Do Autism Walks Help the Community?

Autism walks and runs support nonprofit organizations that address the unmet needs of those affected by autism. 

Many of those with autism spectrum disorder require counseling and support to find safe adult housing, employment, school services, health care, and educational training and assistance. 

In addition, autism fundraisers promote research, representation among decision-makers, and funding for special education needs. Autism support agencies work to create a consistent, strong voice for those with autism and their families.

Along with fostering large-scale changes, many autism groups use the money raised through walks and races to provide financial assistance to families unable to afford specialized therapies and other critical programs. 

The Main Autism Walks in Atlanta, GA

Both large and small nonprofit organizations that support those on the autism spectrum use community-building walks and runs to champion local and national autism resources and assistance. 

Atlanta autism events are often held in the spring or fall. Participants of all ages and abilities have the chance to come together. 

Atlanta Autism Speaks Walk

Participating in the Atlanta, Georgia, Autism Speaks Walk is free. However, it still serves as the organization’s largest fundraising event of the year. 

Through participants’ and sponsors’ efforts and donations, the walk funds research, support, and services for those affected by autism spectrum disorder. 

In addition to the financial donations raised through the Autism Speaks Atlanta Walk, the event gathers those with autism and their families, friends, and care providers to grow the community and form new connections. 

The Autism Speaks Atlanta walk is an October event, and the celebration begins at 8 a.m. for day-of registration. The walk’s opening ceremonies start at 9 a.m., with the walk immediately following at around 9:15. 

Strollers, wheelchairs, and wagons are all welcome on the mile-long course on Battery Avenue. Those interested in volunteering or participating can follow the event online to learn about upcoming dates.

Pure Hearts of Georgia Autism Awareness 5K Fun Run

Pure Hearts of Georgia is an Atlanta-based nonprofit created by families affected by autism. The organization’s 5K fun run is an April event hosted at Newtown Park in Johns Creek. 

Completely volunteer-organized, the event welcomes all ages and abilities. The Pure Hearts team guides runners around the track for the three laps that make up a full 5K and supplies them with snacks and drinks for their post-run recovery.

Participants can enjoy upbeat music and a welcoming, enthusiastic atmosphere throughout the event. 

Pure Hearts of Georgia emphasizes neurodiversity and inclusivity, working to ensure that those in the community who are on the autism spectrum have the resources and opportunities they need to succeed. Follow Pure Hearts of Georgia through its website and social media to keep an eye on future events.

Autism Speaks 5K

In addition to the Autism Speaks Atlanta walk, Autism Speaks also offers an annual Georgia 5K held in November to support their work further. 

The Autism Speaks Georgia 5K is a chip-timed event held in Atlanta’s Piedmont Park. The race helps fund the organization’s work to promote research and solutions for those affected by autism and to help those in urgent need of immediate assistance. 

Autism Speaks is the nation’s largest autism advocacy and research organization. Its work impacts the greater autism community and individuals unable to identify and afford the best tools to foster long-term success. 

The Autism Speaks Georgia 5K begins at 7:30 a.m. with packet pickup and same-day race registration. 

The race itself starts at 9 a.m. Participants can also complete a virtual race anywhere in the country. 

For questions, you can contact the race’s coordinator, Erin Turner, at (770) 451-0570 or follow the event online for updates.

Georgia Race for Autism

The Georgia Race for Autism is an annual event held in October alongside the Fall Festival at the Gwinnett County Fairgrounds. As a USATF-certified race and a qualifying 5K for the Peachtree Road Race, the event attracts those affected by autism, the local community, and serious competitors. 

However, you don’t need to be a runner to enjoy the Georgia Race for Autism. The event also includes a one-mile fun run, a 100-yard dash, and a Tot Trot. 

Full of food, vendors, and resources, the Georgia Race for Autism supports the SPECTRUM Autism Support Group, which provides clubs and camps for those on the autism spectrum. 

Discover the Tools and Resources to Help Your Child Thrive

Hidden Talents is a premier provider of ABA therapy in Atlanta. Our goal is to help children on the autism spectrum gain the skills they need to fully realize their potential. 

Specializing in improving communication, social, and adaptive skills, our dedicated therapists come to you so that your child can remain in the comfort of their home as they obtain the skills necessary to thrive. 

Give your child the tools to succeed when you reach out to our team today.

Autism walks have become one of the best ways to raise funds for and awareness of autism disorders. Anyone can participate in these walks, and they offer families the chance to meet others while doing something beneficial for the autism community. 

If you would like to participate in an autism walk in Houston, Texas, there are some great options to consider. 

What Are Walks for Autism?

Walks for autism are fundraising events that promote awareness of the disorders on the autism spectrum while also raising money. These funds serve to improve services for the autistic community and make it easier for family members and caretakers to get the help and resources they need. 

Funds also go toward research and new technology that can make the lives of those with autism easier. 

The Main Walks in Houston, Texas

Houston offers a few different autism walks to consider. 

Autism Speaks Houston Walks

Autism Speaks is one of the most respected groups in the country, and the various chapters of the organization host autism walks throughout the year. The Houston walk is a large event that takes place in October every year. 

It begins at Lynn Eusan Park at the University of Houston, and registration opens at 8 a.m. Aside from the walk, there are activities for people of all ages, including face painting, balloon artists, and sensory-friendly activities. 

It also features quiet spaces for people with autism who may need a break during the day. In addition, you can choose to have a walkthrough of the location before the event with an Autism Speaks guide. 

You can be part of a team, start a team yourself, or walk alone. Email walk@autismspeaks.org to learn more. 

Easter Seals Walk with Me

Walk With Me is a 5K family walk that raises funds for Easter Seals Greater Houston, an organization that provides services for people of all ages with a disability. This year, the walk will take place at the Houston Zoo.

Easter Seals offers therapy, training, education, and so much more. It is one of the most efficient and oldest charities in Texas. 

The next walk will be on April 22, 2023. For more information, call 713.838.9050 ext. 304 or email gsilva@eastersealshouston.org.

3. Run for Autism

This 5K run or walk in MacGregor Park offers prizes and encourages people of all ages to participate, with a kids’ run as part of the festivities. Run for Autism promotes awareness of autism. It began after the tragic death of Alex Jamrich, who was autistic. 

The race raises money for research and services in the local area, with many funds going to Autism Speaks, Avondale House, and Westview School. 

The 2022 race will be live, but it will also have a virtual alternative. It begins on November 5, and the virtual event goes up to November 11. 

It’s a race or walk appropriate for all levels of athletes. There will also be a handcycle and wheelchair division. 

You can learn more about the event by writing to info@alex5k.com. 

Final Thoughts

We hope you found this list of Houston autism walks useful. If you are looking for the best ABA therapists in Houston, give us a call. Our team is ready to help and will treat your child like family.

Autism support groups can help parents and caretakers of children with autistic children find guidance and feel less alone. Support groups are invaluable resources for families with autistic loved ones.

Read on to learn why support groups are essential and what are the best ones in Houston. 

What Are Autism Support Groups?

Autism support groups consist of family members, teachers, doctors, and others who have contact with children on the autism spectrum. 

These groups offer guidance by allowing people to share experiences and techniques for dealing with problem behaviors while also making it easier to find expert help through seminars and guest speakers.

The Importance of Having an Autism Support Group

Autism support groups are appropriate for many groups of people who work or live with children on the autism spectrum. These can include:

• Grandparents
• Social workers
• Parents
• Siblings
• Teachers
• Doctors

These support groups provide safe spaces for members to share the frustrations they may feel without worrying about judgment from others. 

An autism support group can help you feel less alone as you navigate how to help a child with autism. 

Many autism support groups offer resources that can help you, in addition to hosting therapists and other specialists that you can learn from. 

The 5 Best Autism Support Groups in Houston, Texas

If you’re considering joining an autism support group, there are some excellent ones in Houston, Texas. 

1. Heart of Texas Autism Network

The Heart of Texas Autism Network helps parents learn how to advocate for their children in the public school system. They have potluck dinners where experts and therapists offer training and other advice and information. 

The event is a good way to network and find access to resources. The Heart of Texas Autism Network has collaborated with many organizations to provide assistance for events, conferences, and more. 

Call 254-863-1131 or email info@hotan254.org for more information.

2. Blue Skyes Over Autism

Blue Skyes Over Autism is a support group that provides education opportunities and respite events for family members who have an autistic loved one. These events help promote awareness and seek to create lasting bonds among families. 

The group focuses on the Houston, Texas, area, but it also reaches out to families in other countries with autistic loved ones.

You can contact them via their online form. 

3. Autism Speaks

Autism Speaks is one of the largest resources available for families of people with autism. It offers information and events that raise money for families who are struggling. 

Autism Speaks sponsors support groups in all of its chapters, with options like sibling support groups and online support groups, to name a few. Autism Speaks also has an autism response team that works like an information line for the autism community. 

Learn more by calling 1-888-288-4762 or by writing to help@autismspeaks.org.

4. Autism Society of Texas

The Autism Society of Texas is the country’s leading grassroots autism support organization. It provides public awareness while also offering information on the latest treatments. 

The Autism Society of Texas sponsors local and national support groups, as well as online groups, so you always have someone to talk to. The Houston Parent and Caregiver Online Support Group, for example, meets virtually on the third Thursday of every month. 

Call 1-888-288-4762 or email info@austinautismsociety.org for more information.

5. Houston Autism Family Support Group

The Houston Autism Family Support Group is a family-led group that organizes multiple activities every month to encourage participation from the entire family. The support group networks with other organizations in the area to offer training for parents and caregivers while also including the loved one with autism in the conversation. 

Email the group at harsgroup2015@gmail.com.

Final Thoughts

We hope you found this autism support group list useful. If you are looking for the best ABA therapists in Houston, give us a call. Our team is ready to help and will treat your child like family.

For those living with autism or who have a loved one on the autism spectrum, having resources available is vital. Autism resources offer support, grants, and information, making them important for families as well as individuals. 

Keep reading to learn about the numerous autism resources available in Columbus, Georgia. 

Resource List for Children with Autism in Columbus, Georgia

In the Columbus, Georgia, area, there are many autism resources, including grants, scholarships, and more. 

1. Parent to Parent of Georgia

Parent to Parent of Georgia offers multiple services for families impacted by autism. The organization has various support groups, including those for Hispanic families, parents, and East African families. It also offers online groups. 

Parent to Parent of Georgia also provides training for parents and other caretakers on learning strategies for dealing with challenging behavioral issues. The organization has offices throughout Georgia. 

You can reach out by calling 770-451-5484 or by filling out a form here. 

2. Georgia’s Special Needs Scholarship

The Georgia Department of Education offers this scholarship for K-12 children. It provides funds for private school education when public school does not offer the assistance a child with special needs requires. 

To qualify for the scholarship, the child must have attended at least one year of public school in Georgia or have attended a special needs preschool. The student must also have either a 504 Plan or an Individualized Education Plan. 

3. West Georgia Autism Foundation 

The West Georgia Autism Foundation offers grants for families who have a child on the autism spectrum. Its mission is to enrich the lives of those affected by autism. 

Past grants have included scholarships for young adults with autism to attend technical college, as well as research grants. Families in need can also apply to receive support. 

In January 2023, the West Georgia Autism Foundation will host one of its large fundraising events to help families in Georgia. 

Learn more by contacting wgaautism@gmail.com.

4. ASD Ascend Scholarship

The ASD Ascend scholarship offers tuition money for young adults on the autism spectrum who want to attend college. The foundation awards five $1,000 scholarships. 

The ASD Ascend scholarship is open to entering freshmen, sophomores, and juniors who have autism and want to get an associate degree or bachelor’s degree. 

Winners must provide documentation of an autism diagnosis. 

You can contact the ASD Ascend foundation through this form. 

5. Autism Speaks

Autism Speaks is one of the leading resources for parents, caretakers, and anyone else who loves someone on the autism spectrum. Autism Speaks provides valuable information on autism, access to specialists who can help parents, support groups, and more.

It also offers grants for families of autistic children, scientists focused on autism research, and autism service providers. Each year, Autism Speaks hosts various walks to help raise money for local services. 

Contact an autism response team at 888-288-4762 or by emailing help@autismspeaks.org. If you speak Spanish, call 888-772-9050.

6. Marcus Autism Center

Marcus Autism Center has many resources to help a child with autism. It can help families with everything from arranging animal therapy sessions to applying for benefits. 

The center offers specialized services and programs to help improve the lives of children with autism and their families. It has a library dedicated to helping families find the resources they need for every developmental stage of their child’s life. 

Call Marcus Autism Center at 404-785-9400.

7. Children’s Autism Assessment Center

Children’s Autism Assessment Center offers some of the best assessment and diagnostic services in the area. It provides gold-standard neurodevelopmental diagnoses for disorders on the autism spectrum while also offering tailored services and recommendations. 

Children’s Autism Assessment Center also offers consultation services for families who would benefit from support in the management of their child’s developmental concerns, like picky eating, late toilet training, sleep difficulties, and challenging behavior. 

You can call 404-390-1322 or email drbrandismith@caacatlanta.com for more information. 

8. Georgia Kids First Special Needs Fund

This scholarship is a general one that provides help for children K-12 who are autistic or have other challenges. The scholarship allows people to redirect their Georgia State income taxes to those in need, providing them with specialized services and educational support. 

To apply for the scholarship or to learn more, call 404-808-6936 or write to info@gakidsFIRST.org.

ABA Therapy in Columbus, Georgia

Applied behavior analysis (ABA) is the gold standard for autism, based on the process of learning and behavior. It uses positive reinforcement, and it is easy to adapt it to meet each child’s needs. 

It is a type of therapy that can help decrease problem behavior while improving attention, focus, academics, and social skills. It can also help improve communication skills. 

At Hidden Talents, you can get a therapist who specializes in ABA therapy to come right to your home. To learn more about our in-home ABA therapy in Columbus you can call 404-487-6005 or email info@hiddentalentsaba.com.

Autism walks have become one of the best ways to raise awareness for this condition, encouraging people to raise funds for research and for local services geared toward people on the autism spectrum. 

In Columbus, Georgia, there are two main walks that happen every year. Learn more about them here. 

What Are Walks for Autism?

Autism walks help raise awareness about the challenges people who are on the autism spectrum face. They can be excellent fundraising events and bring people together over this common cause.

By raising funds, walks for autism seek to improve local autism services, research, and more. Everyone is welcome to participate. 

Because the people who host these walks understand the challenges of those with autism, they provide safe and quiet areas where participants can take a break. 

The Main Walks in Columbus, Georgia

There are two major autism walks in Columbus, Georgia. The walks take place every year, and both happen in October. 

Autism Speaks Walk

The Autism Speaks Walk is the largest autism fundraising event in the world. It’s a walk dedicated to offering support to those affected by autism. 

Money raised by the walk goes to fuel research projects, critical services and programs in the area, and advocacy. When you register for the walk, you can set your fundraising goal and make personal donations. 

Because people with autism can experience sensory overload, the walk provides quiet spaces if it all becomes too much. There are also pre-walk guides that can help someone with autism get acquainted with the route so they know what to expect. 

Children are welcome to participate. Although there’s no registration fee, there is a minimum donation of $150 that participants must raise. 

In Atlanta, the walk begins at The Battery Atlanta, 800 Battery Ave., SE Atlanta, GA 30339. Learn more by writing to walk@autismspeaks.org.

Georgia Race for Autism

The Georgia Race for Autism includes a 5K, 1-mile run or walk, along with a tot trot and a 100-yard dash. The funds the race raises go to the SPECTRUM Autism Support Group, helping to provide camps and other special events for those on the autism spectrum. 

SPECTRUM sponsors seven weeks of summer camps, as well as programs throughout the school year. These programs and events help children on the autism spectrum to develop social skills and build friendships. 

The race takes place at the Gwinnett County Fairgrounds in October. The 5K begins at 8 a.m., and registration begins at 6:30 a.m. 

After the race, participants can enjoy the Fall Festival, featuring vendors from all over the city and family-oriented activities. Activities include:

• Petting zoo
• Face painting
• Hamster balls
• Corn hole games
• Inflatable slides and obstacle course

There will also be a clown to entertain the children, food vendors, and a silent auction, in addition to other treats. The silent auction is another way to raise funds for autism research, advocacy, and special programs. 

To learn more about the Georgia Race for Autism, email Claire@atl-spectrum.com. 

Final Thoughts

We hope you found this autism support group list useful. If you are looking for the best ABA therapists in Columbus, give us a call. Our team is ready to help and will treat your child like family.

Having a child with autism can make you feel isolated and like no one else knows what you’re going through. To help with these feelings, there are autism support groups that offer hope and remind you that you’re not alone. Read on to learn more about autism support groups in Columbus, Georgia. 

What Are Autism Support Groups?

An autism support group is a group of parents, grandparents, family members, caretakers, and even educators who have someone in their life with autism. These groups help members by offering them support and guidance as they deal with the daily struggles of caring for a person on the autism spectrum.

The Importance of Having an Autism Support Group

Autism support groups are appropriate for a variety of people who have someone with autism in their lives, including:

• Parents
• Siblings
• Teachers
• Doctors
• Caretakers
• Grandparents

Support groups for people who have a loved one on the autism spectrum allow members to share insights into dealing with difficult situations. The sense of community these support groups provide can make it easier for members to vent any frustrations they have in a safe, judgment-free space. 

Autism support groups also allow people to get expert advice. Many of the groups host events with professionals, making it easier to get information on autism. 

These support groups also introduce you to people who are going through similar situations, reinforcing the fact that you aren’t alone on your journey. 

The 5 Best Autism Support Groups in Columbus, Georgia

If you live in Columbus, Georgia, there are a few excellent autism support groups you can turn to. 

1. Autism Hope Center

The Autism Hope Center is a nonprofit organization serving the Chattahoochee Valley area. Its goal is to provide programs and information for everyone affected by autism. 

The funds the group raises stay in the area and provide Family Support Grants so that parents can receive specialized training, community seminars, and more. 

Learn more about the Autism Hope Center by calling 706-604-6333 ​or emailing ​autismhopecenterllp@gmail.com.

2. Parent to Parent

Parent to Parent serves the Stonecrest, Georgia, area and focuses on letting parents help one another through difficult transitional periods in their children’s lives. All parents with special needs children are welcome to attend. 

The group meets every Wednesday. Call 404 585-7533 or email csu@comprehensivefamilycare.org.

3. Marcus Autism Center

The Marcus Autism Center offers support to children with autism and their parents and caretakers. The center has a Care Coordination team to help families get the support and training they need. 

The center is based in Atlanta and offers seminars and camps throughout the year to give families the information they need while also helping children improve their social skills. 

To learn more about the Marcus Autism Center, you call 404-785-9400 or visit them at Marcus Autism Center, 1920 Briarcliff Road, Atlanta, GA 30329.

4. Georgia Autism Center

Georgia Autism Center helps families and people on the autism spectrum receive the right diagnosis, gain information on dealing with the challenges that autism brings, and much more. 

The center bridges the gap between families and experts by furnishing families with information on the latest technology and therapy options for a child with autism. 

Learn more by contacting the center at 770-696-4384 or emailing info@georgiaautismcenter.com.

5. Muscogee County Autism Support Group (MCASG)

MCASG provides parents and caretakers with training information on dealing with complex situations and transitional periods of their child’s life. The group meets on the second Tuesday of each month. Contact MCASG at 706-329-7708.

MCASG serves the entire Columbus, Georgia, area. 

Final Thoughts

We hope you found this autism support group list useful. If you are looking for the best ABA therapists in Columbus, give us a call. Our team is ready to help and will treat your child like family.

You may be wondering what it’s like to be an ABA therapist.

After you read this article, you will know what a practitioner’s average day looks like, the job’s main pros and cons, how you, yourself, can become a successful ABA therapist, and more.

What is ABA therapy?

ABA therapy stands for applied behavior analysis. It is a therapeutic approach that helps autistic children and adults with controlling their behaviors and autism symptoms.

The ABCs of ABA

One of the basic concepts of ABA therapy is the ABC (antecedent, behavior, and consequence). Practicing professionals rely on the ABC to understand why an autistic patient is behaving a certain way.

First of all, ABA therapists identify the emotional, verbal, visual, physical, or other type of antecedent that led to the behavior. For example, the antecedent may be a word that upset the child, a bad thought that they had, or a loud noise that came from the TV.

The behavior is how the kid reacted, such as by crying, screaming, pulling their hair, or throwing objects.

Finally, ABA therapists determine the consequence that followed and its influence on the behavior. 

To illustrate, here is an example:

1. Antecedent: An autistic child’s parents turned on the TV.
2. Behavior: The child started to cry and pull their hair because they felt that the TV volume was too loud.
3. Consequence: To stop the child’s behavior, the parents turn off the TV or (if they didn’t know why their kid was crying) give them some ice cream.

In this example, the consequence encourages that undesirable behavior since it teaches the child that they get rewarded with ice cream for crying and pulling their hair.

To address this behavior, an ABA therapist rewards the autistic girl or boy when they point at the TV, politely ask them to turn down the volume, or express themselves in another desirable manner.

Crying and hair pulling, meanwhile, would be met with silence or inaction.

Ultimately, ABA therapists use incentives like candy, ice cream, and toys to reward good behavior.

Interpersonal Therapy and ABA

A crucial aspect to ABA is interpersonal therapy.

This method looks at how a patient’s mental health is shaped by the way that they relate to and communicate with their family members, friends, classmates, teachers, and others in their lives.

Regardless of whether a therapist uses the ABC or interpersonal approach (or both), their main role is to help autistic children develop their social, academic, behavioral, motor, and overall skills.

ABA therapists typically engage in activities and routines that revolve around these goals.

What does a typical day look like for an ABA therapist?

If you are thinking about becoming an ABA therapist, here are examples of what you will work with autistic children on:

• Behavioral Skills: Teaching them to sit still on the table, not scratching or biting when upset, and sharing belongings.
• Communication: Showing them how to verbally ask for a toy or express that they’re uncomfortable or unhappy.
• Social Skills: Guide them as they play with others, make new friends, and become confident enough to ask questions in the classroom.
• Academic Performance: Making sure that they learn how to do their homework without being told to, put away their items when they’re done, and politely ask to watch TV or play with their toys after they’re finished.

To enable kids with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) achieve these objectives and more, ABA therapists have to utilize multiple mediums, settings, and locations.

Mediums That ABA Therapists Use

As a practitioner, you may take advantage of iPad apps to improve autistic children’s skills and play interactive digital and offline games with them.

The following are a few of the benefits of therapeutic iPad use:

• You can watch and emulate yoga and exercise videos. This is particularly important because it shows autistic kids how to regulate their body movements and enhance their balance and coordination. 
• An iPad stylus (a pen-shaped tool) helps girls and boys with autism learn how to write (via apps).
• The stylus also allows them to develop their motor skills when they touch and navigate the iPad screen with it (instead of doing so with their fingers).
• Dancing and music apps may act as a form of music and movement therapy.

In the same vein, practitioners spend a lot of time playing games and on ABA therapy activities for autism, which might include:

• Dressing up dolls teaches a child new words/sentences and encourages them to speak.
• Play dough calms the senses of patients with ASD and energizes their sensory processes.
• Games that entail organizing items based on their colors.

While it’s common for therapists to play with the child individually, many autistic girls and boys find it therapeutic to engage with a group of kids.

Settings: Individual vs Group Therapy

ABA therapists observe children in one or both of the following settings:

• Group Therapy: Here, the practitioner monitors how the child interacts with their classmates or treats them among a group of other autistic patients.
• Individually: The ABA therapist holds one-on-one sessions with the boy or girl.

Keep in mind that, whether it’s a group or individual setting, ABA therapists have to regularly commute and practice their profession in multiple locations.

Locations That Therapists Work In

Here are a few potential places that ABA therapists could watch and work with patients in:

• Home Visits: You would frequently spend most/all of the day at the child’s home and conduct ABA sessions there.
• The Therapist’s Office: As a therapist, you will have to see and treat kids at your office, as well. However, it may take the patient more time to get fully comfortable with office sessions in comparison to at-home ones.
• At School: Some practitioners go to the boy or girl’s school to help them with their social and communication skills.
• Other Events: In the same vein, therapists commonly observe autistic children at playgrounds, family gatherings, and other social events.

In short, being an ABA therapist can be demanding.

In addition to balancing between the various mediums, settings, and locations that are involved in a treatment program, practitioners must also cater to their patients’ unique and evolving needs.

Is being an ABA therapist difficult?

Professional therapists often run into difficulties and challenges in applied behavior analysis that require patience, organization, and dedication, such as the following:

• Taking on physical tasks like sitting or standing beside the child as they eat or play, keeping up with their energy levels, and preventing them from causing damage.
• Addressing problematic and troublesome behaviors. For example, a kid may excessively yell or cry, damage furniture, and throw objects when they’re upset or stressed.
• Managing a high amount of caseloads.
• Finding an appropriate work-life balance.
• Switching between a therapist-patient/child approach to a collaborative one when they talk to the parents or teach them behavioral management techniques.

With that being said, this profession comes with a lot of positive aspects, too.

Is being an ABA therapist a rewarding job?

Yes, it is. In fact, many ABA therapists appreciate and enjoy the rewarding and fulfilling nature of their job due to the following reasons and more:

• They get to see autistic children improve their skills and reach important personal, academic, social, and developmental milestones.
• ABA practitioners witness the happiness and pride that they brought to a family firsthand.
• Throughout the day, therapists experience the joyfulness and lightheartedness of working with kids.
• They fulfill their passion for giving to others and making a difference in people’s lives.

If you are motivated by these benefits and rewards, especially passion, you are likely to become an effective and successful ABA therapist.

How can I be a successful ABA therapist?

To attain a successful and fruitful career as an ABA therapist, here are some of the qualities that you want to develop or hone:

• A passion for the career.
• The patience and willingness to invest in growth and progress. After all, you won’t reap the rewards or notice a major change overnight.
• You enjoy engaging with children, playing games with them, and participating in other activities for kids.

In addition to demonstrating these qualities, you also have to obtain the proper certification to be a professional ABA therapist.

How do I get started on becoming an ABA therapist?

The Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB) is in charge of overseeing the processes that aspiring ABA therapists have to go through to get certified.

There are three types of certificates that allow you to practice ABA therapy:

• Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst (BCaBA)
• Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA)
• Board Certified Behavior Analyst-Doctoral (BCBA-D)

Each of these will require you to have an undergraduate or postgraduate degree.

Alternatively, you may obtain a registered behavior technician (RBT) certification with a high school diploma, which enables you to assist and work with practicing ABA therapists.

However, RBTs aren’t permitted to directly provide the treatment, while BCaBAs and BCBAs can.

Become a BCaBA with a Bachelor’s Degree

To get your BCaBA certification, follow these steps:

1. Get your undergraduate degree. If your degree is from a college or university that is accredited by the Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI), skip step 2 and go to step 3.
2. If your school is not accredited, enroll in 225 classroom hours’ worth of behavior-analytic courses as you work towards your degree. To clarify, this is equal to 15 semester credits or about 23 quarter credits.
3. Complete 1,000 to 1,300 field hours under the oversight of a supervisor who meets certain requirements.
4. Submit your application and documents (including your degree and verification that you finished your fieldwork program). 
5. You can expect to hear back within 45 days with an approval or a denial.
6. If your application is approved, schedule your exam and pass it.
7. Check your local or state rules for ABA therapists and, if there are any, make sure that you meet them. 

After that, you may immediately start practicing ABA therapy as long as you have a BACB-registered BCaBA supervisor

From there, you must maintain your BCaBA certificate. Here is how:

• Regularly work as an ABA practitioner and avoid stopping for prolonged or extended periods.
• Be consistently supervised.
• Meet ethical requirements.
• Renew your certification every two years.

These rules also apply to BCBA and BCBA-D certificates. Yet, BCBA and BCBA-D therapists can work without being supervised.

Become a BCBA with a Master’s Degree:

This what you have to do to become a certified BCBA:

1. Get your master’s degree. Skip to step 3 if your degree is from an ABAI-accredited institution.
2. If your school is not accredited, complete 315 classroom hours (21 semester credits/32 quarter credits) of behavior-analytic courses or, alternatively, finish 3 years of work as a behavior-analytic faculty or research member.
3. Complete 1,500 to 2,000 field hours under the oversight of an eligible supervisor.
4. Submit your application and documents.
5. Wait until you get a response within 45 days.
6. If your application is approved, schedule your exam and pass it.
7. Check and meet your local or state rules for ABA therapists.

Next, you may begin working as an ABA practitioner right away and without a supervisor. From there, you want to make sure that you renew your certification every two years.

Become a BCBA-D with a Doctorate Degree:

The steps for becoming a BCBA and BCBA-D are very similar. To illustrate, this what getting a BCBA-D certification looks like:

1. Gain 10 years of work experience as an ABA practitioner (teaching doesn’t count) with a national, state, or local certification.
2. Complete 500 hours of field work.
3. Follow the rest of the steps that you would take to get your BCBA certification (steps 4-7 above) and renew it every 2 years.

Apart from the eligibility rules and certificate designation, the roles, responsibilities, and permitted scopes of practice are identical for both BCBA and BCBA-D certificate holders.

As a matter of fact, a similar thing could be said about practicing ABA therapy, in general. Everything goes back to the ABCs, positive enforcement, and other basic therapeutic techniques.

Just as importantly (and regardless of the certification that they have), a typical day for almost any ABA therapist entails playing with children, dealing with behavioral challenges, and reaping the rewards that come with seeing their patients’ lives change.

You’re probably wondering what macrocephaly is and whether this condition is particularly common among children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).

When you’re done with this article, you will know what macrocephaly is, its main symptoms, how it impacts autistic kids, the other problems that it may cause, and more.

Do children with autism have large heads?

In recent decades, researchers and scientists conducted a lot of studies about head circumference and brain size in autism spectrum disorder.

When it comes to macrocephaly (having a large head), here are what these studies have found:

• Up to 15.7% of autistic children have macrocephaly.
• This condition typically appears in the patient’s early childhood years.
• Macrocephaly impacts kids that were diagnosed with low-functioning autism more frequently than those with less severe ASD symptoms.

Other research reports point to a correlation between gender and having a large head. That is to say that autistic boys are more likely to develop macrocephaly than girls.

At times, the condition shows up when the child is still in their mother’s womb, and it usually goes away by their fifth birthday.

It is hard to know exactly when and how macrocephaly affects patients. This is because the many experts who examined this topic over the last 80 years relied on different research methods and techniques.

How was this discovered?

Autism’s relationship to head size is explained by almost eight decades’ worth of data and analysis, starting with a paper that Leo Kanner authored in 1943.

Kanner observed 11 kids with ASD and noticed that “five had relatively large heads”. However, this sample size was too small and Kanner didn’t study or comment on this issue any further.

In 1999, nearly 60 years later, a report came out and indicated that macrocephaly was prevalent among 20% of autistic patients.

Yet, the Autism Phenome Project disputed these figures in 2011. They argued that the 20% estimate only accounts for children with a bigger-than-average head size.

In turn, the Autism Phenome Project looked at the number of kids with ASD whose head was disproportionately large in relation to their body size. They concluded that 15% (and not 20%) of autistic patients have macrocephaly.

Lastly, but certainly not least, is a 2015 study with over 8,000 participants that found that those with an ASD diagnosis tend to have a bigger head than their neurotypical counterparts.

Nonetheless, the 2015 review didn’t examine the relationship between the head and brain or body sizes.

Does macrocephaly also mean the child has a large brain?

Those with a large head are more likely to have a big brain size, as well. In fact, brain enlargement impacts 9.1% of children with ASD.

Remember, though, that having a large head doesn’t necessarily mean that an autistic child will also have a large brain.

Which parts of the brain are enlarged?

The cortex is the main part of the brain that gets enlarged. To clarify, the cortex is the thick outer layer that surrounds the brain from the top and takes up most of its volume.

Several studies about brain structure changes in autism explained that multiple areas experience an enlargement, including:

• Amygdala: Some autistic children might develop an enlarged amygdala (the part that processes emotions) while they’re very young. 
• Cerebellum: Even though most areas of the brain get bigger, kids with ASD are more likely to have less cerebellum tissues than their neurotypical peers. The cerebellum oversees functions related to bodily balance, cognition, and socializing.
• Hippocampus: Similar to the amygdala, the hippocampus (the part that creates and preserves memories) commonly increases in size, too.

Scientists and medical experts aren’t sure what the enlarged parts of an autistic child’s brain and cortex are made from or contain. 

One finding suggests that ASD can lead to an excess in cerebrospinal fluids. This is the clear liquid that’s present across the nervous system and regulates many of its physical, sensory, and other processes.

According to a separate study, autism is linked with an excess of neurons in the prefrontal cortex among boys with enlarged brains. These neurons were identified in the parts that are responsible for a person’s communication capabilities and cognitive growth.

Is macrocephaly problematic?

In addition to how it affects the brain’s structure, macrocephaly is concerning because it goes hand-in-hand with other problems and issues.

Here are some examples:

• Macrocephaly is linked to shortcomings in communication and social skills, and it sets back an autistic patient’s ability to speak.
• Children with enlarged brains tend to run into more difficulties with day-to-day tasks (for instance, eating with a fork and knife) than those with a normal-sized brain.
• A two-year-old or younger autistic child’s head size can indicate how severe their ASD symptoms will be by the time they turn four years old.
• Kids with a relatively big brain size could see their skills and capabilities decline up until their sixth birthdays.

In light of this, if your autistic son or daughter was diagnosed with macrocephaly, you want to make sure that you prepare for the developmental hurdles that they may run into in the future.

This will allow you to address and minimize the severe symptoms as early and smoothly as possible.

If your child didn’t receive an official diagnosis, you should keep an eye on the potential symptoms.

What else may macrocephaly cause?

In the immediate term, macrocephaly could lead an autistic kid to experience the following symptoms:

• Vomiting that isn’t explainable or provoked
• Unusual or strange eye movements
• Irritability
• Head bulging
• Head tightness
• Crying in an irregularly high-pitched tone

These signs may mean that there is an overflow in brain fluids. They might also manifest themselves when the skull’s bones excessively grow, as well as for other reasons.

Now that you know what the symptoms of macrocephaly are, you should take your son or daughter for a diagnosis once they start to display them.

Remember, up to 15% and 10% of autistic kids get macrocephaly and an enlarged brain, respectively.

These conditions frequently appear during the first two years of a child’s life, and they suggest how severe their ASD will be in the following ones.

Therefore, if your autistic child received a macrocephaly diagnosis, you want to make sure that you prepare for more severe autism symptoms before they even show up.

This allows your child to develop and grow in the healthiest way possible.

Are you trying to learn about ABA therapy as a form of treatment for autism? If so, you’re in the right place.

When you’re done reading this article, you will know what ABA therapy entails and how to determine if it’s the right treatment for your autistic son or daughter.

What is ABA therapy?

ABA therapy stands for applied behavior analysis, and it is considered to be the most effective way to manage and minimize the symptoms of autism spectrum disorder (ASD).

ABA therapy revolves around the concept of positive reinforcement. Simply put, it entails using rewards (such as candy and toys) to incentivize an autistic boy or girl to follow desirable behaviors.

As an example, when the TV volume is too loud, a desirable habit would be for the autistic kid to ask an adult to turn down the TV volume instead of getting agitated or throwing objects at the screen.

Over time, children with ASD learn how to act in a desirable and socially-acceptable way without being incentivized by a reward. This happens gradually as your son or daughter continues to attend ABA sessions on a regular basis.

How do I know if ABA therapy is right for my child?

On most occasions, primary care providers will refer you to an ABA therapist when they believe that your kid has some of the common signs of autism.

After that, the ABA therapist conducts a thorough assessment and screens your child for ASD symptoms.

Symptoms of Autism

You want to take your son or daughter for an autism assessment if they develop one or more of the following signs:

• Difficulty with communicating their feelings and talking about their emotions.
• Doesn’t make eye contact and avoids smiling back.
• Doesn’t respond when his or her name is called.
• Engages in tasks and activities that may lead them to hurt themselves.
• Firmly follows a daily schedule, up to the point where they get angry or sad when their routine changes.
• Interpreting phrases (like “break a leg”) in a literal way and taking them too seriously.
• Making movements or saying phrases in a very repetitive manner.
• Obsessing with and getting overly interested in activities, objects, and/or subjects that they like.
• Physical coordination problems and irregular bodily movements.
• Struggling to socialize or make friends (in fact, many kids with ASD would prefer to be alone rather than engage with others).

If your son or daughter is displaying any of these autism symptoms, you want to take them in for an assessment as soon as possible.

This way, in the event that they get diagnosed with ASD, you can get them the help that they need right away.

When should my child start ABA therapy?

In short, the sooner that your child starts ABA therapy, the better. After all, your kid’s life will be much easier when they learn how to control and manage their symptoms from a young age.

Here are some of the main benefits to undergoing ABA therapy at an early point:

• A higher likelihood that the child will successfully form and enhance critical developmental skills.
• The kid learns how to take care of their health and well-being from the time that they’re really young.
• They learn how to make friends at an early life stage, which is arguably among the top 10 reasons children with autism deserve ABA.
• Parents can identify the most effective parenting techniques for their son or daughter and work on establishing a healthy parent-child relationship when the latter is still a little kid.
• Autistic boys and girls become fully capable of taking care of themselves well before their parents get older and can no longer assist them.
• It minimizes and/or prevents issues that could impact the child’s school performance.
• You can set up a long-term academic and career plan for your son or daughter while they’re in elementary school or younger.
• If the cost of the ABA sessions is a problem, an early start gives you enough time to look for support and obtain financial assistance.
• Problematic habits and developmental delays may be identified and addressed before they turn into bigger and challenging issues.
• Their IQ score could go up, even more so when their ABA treatment is initiated at a young age.

Another indirect benefit to early ABA treatment is that it allows your son or daughter to get the extensive and longer sessions out of the way sooner.

How long does ABA therapy last?

The overall duration of your child’s applied behavior analysis treatment and the length of each session are based on various factors.

Most kids attend ABA sessions for about 1 to 3 years. It goes without saying that those with severe autism symptoms and/or complex needs may have to undergo treatment for a relatively longer period.

Many autistic children take on daily sessions, which add up to between 25 and 40 hours per week.

In general, the following aspects will influence the length and duration of your kid’s ABA treatment:

• Their strengths, weaknesses, and needs
• The child’s goals, including their academic, social, physical, and personal objectives.
• The severity of the patient’s ASD symptoms.
• How well the boy or girl responds to the treatment.
• The amount of time it takes for the child to get comfortable with ABA.
• How long it takes the therapist to identify the best techniques for helping your son or daughter.

Keep in mind that, even after your child completes their ABA program, you still have to work on managing their symptoms and potentially enrolling them in other forms of treatment.

What do I do after my child stops ABA therapy?

When your child stops attending ABA sessions, you must have certain strategies in place to help them adapt.

First of all, consider putting together a transition plan with their therapist. This could be done through having them slowly reduce their weekly ABA hours and working on implementing some of the treatment methods at home.

Secondly, make sure that your child stays engaged and challenged emotionally, socially, academically, and physically.

This is attained by communicating with them regularly, collaborating with their school teachers, and participating in activities that enhance the kid’s motor and coordination skills.

Lastly, but certainly not least, is to consider other autism treatments that your boy or girl can attend once they conclude their ABA sessions.

Here, you want to focus on the treatments that improve your child’s weaknesses, enable them to attain their goals, minimize the problematic ASD symptoms, and, above all, build on the ABA techniques that were the most effective and beneficial for your child.

One of the biggest challenges after your child receives an autism spectrum disorder (ASD) diagnosis is knowing where to find the assistance they need. 

Wading through programs and resources is daunting and can quickly become frustrating without help. An autism support group can serve as an essential first step.

What Are Autism Support Groups?

An autism support group is a community of individuals affected by ASD who work together to share victories and struggles, offer advice on techniques and programs, and provide a sense of community to those who feel isolated. 

Professionals or other parents can lead autism support groups. They may have a set theme for each meeting or use an informal structure that allows parents to bring their most pressing issues to their peers.

The Importance of Having an Autism Support Group

All parents and families need a solid network of support. Unfortunately, finding those who can help becomes much more challenging when your child has ASD. 

Raising a child with the unique challenges of autism can be especially difficult and isolating when those around you have different struggles. An autism support group lets you share your stories, experiences, and concerns with parents facing similar challenges. 

Meeting with a support group may lead you to discover new programs, therapies, or techniques; create new friendships and connections; and be part of a community of families who understand what you’re going through.

While many autism support groups target parents and caregivers, there are also groups for siblings, children on the spectrum, and whole families.

The 5 Best Autism Support Groups in Macon, Georgia

Parents, caregivers, and families seeking support groups in Macon, Georgia, have several options to fill their needs. These groups offer families a resource to celebrate their victories, challenges, and discoveries as they raise children with ASD.

1. Central GA Autism, Ltd.

Central GA Autism is an active nonprofit organization providing support and resources to families whose child has been diagnosed with ASD and is composed entirely of families whose loved one has ASD. In addition, Central GA Autism offers group meetings and outings, mostly tracked on the group’s Facebook page.

Those interested in joining can follow the organization’s social media accounts or contact the group directly.  

2. Anchor of Hope Foundation

The Anchor of Hope Foundation provides spiritual and financial support to families with disabilities and offers encouragement, services, and community resources to those in need. 

Its programs include a regularly scheduled parent support group, monthly parents’ night out events that offer parents free care for their children while they reconnect, and other valuable resources. 

Families can get involved via the foundation’s website or by emailing aohfoundation@gmail.com.

3. Parent to Parent of Georgia

Based in Atlanta, Parent to Parent of Georgia offers online and in-person support groups throughout the state as well as the Supporting Parents program.

Supporting Parents is a volunteer, mentor-based program that trains and matches experienced parents with those who may be new to an ASD diagnosis or struggling with new challenges. 

4. The Arc Macon

Formerly known as the Advocacy Resource Center, The Arc Macon is a nonprofit organization that supports those with developmental disabilities. It offers supported employment, residential services, and recreational and social support programs. 

The Arc Macon hosts family support meetings quarterly. These meetings vary from a focused topic to a get-together that allows families to connect. 

Gatherings are free and open to the public, and families can stay updated through the group’s Facebook page.

5. Navicent Family Support Services

Navicent Family Support Services provides families with programs and resources to support children with ASD, including developmental assessments, therapies, and recreational activities.

Its Autism Development Center offers regularly meeting support groups for families. You can learn more about the meetings by calling 844-482-2264.

Conclusion

We hope you found this list of autism support groups useful. If you have a child with autism and are looking for ABA therapy in Macon give us a call. Our dedicated team will be able to answer any of your questions. 

When someone you love has autism, it’s easy to see the value in events that raise awareness, provide community support, and fund research and treatments. 

Autism walks in Macon, Georgia are among the most impactful fundraisers for autism, and the Central Georgia community has several to choose from. 

What Are Walks for Autism?

Walks for autism are events that inspire people to raise money and learn more about the autism community while participating in a healthy, exercise-based activity. 

Some autism walks and runs in Macon are locally minded, created to increase funding for nearby programs that support those with autism and their families in living independent, successful lives. 

In addition to their fundraising benefits, autism walks and races create inclusion, knowledge, and awareness of autism in the region while also encouraging everyone to rally around a worthy cause.

Autism Walks in Macon, Georgia

Autism walks bring people together, inviting participation from people of all ages. In addition, since they’re fundraisers that don’t require tremendous resources to set up and run, the money raised can go where it’s needed most. 

Macon and Central Georgia host three main events every year. 

Macon Tracks Autism 5K

The Macon Tracks Autism 5K Trail Race and Fun Run is part of the annual Autism Awareness Festival held with the Anchors of Hope Foundation to benefit their programs. 

The Autism Awareness Festival is an annual event occurring on the last Saturday in April at Dayspring Presbyterian Church in Forsyth, Georgia. The community event includes a resource and craft fair, entertainment, food vendors, a kids’ play area, and the 5k trail race and family fun run. 

Anchors of Hope serves a critical role in the autism community of Macon, providing families with scholarships, resources, support groups, and respite care. You can become involved in the 5k trail race and fun run by following the event online or by contacting Anchors of Hope directly. 

Middle Georgia 5K for Autism

The Middle Georgia 5K for Autism is an annual event held in April that offers food, fun, and entertainment while raising money for a worthy cause. The organizations Suffered in Silence Incorporated, Single Moms Connect, Inc., and Bossladi Enterprises sponsor the event. 

Held in Lane Southern Orchards in Fort Valley, Georgia, the race offers beautiful views, fun, and community engagement. All of the event’s proceeds go to the Middle Georgia Community Action Agency’s Head Start program supporting students on the spectrum. 

In addition, the event helps fund family support events offered by Middle Georgia Autism Projects.

You can learn more through the event’s webpage and Facebook page. 

FBBC Parents of Special Needs Children Autism Walk and Family Fun Day

The April FBBC Parents of Special Needs Children Autism Walk and Family Fun Day in Warner Robins, Georgia, advocates for autism awareness, acceptance, and inclusion. 

The event funds the Waves Autism Center, which offers day camps, social programs, parental support, and educational workshops for families touched by autism. It takes place in Memorial Park at 800 Armed Forces Boulevard and includes games, food, and other entertainment. 

If you want to learn more about FBBC Parents of Special Needs Children, you can contact the organization directly by emailing posnc@fbbchome.org. You can also follow the event online.

Conclusion

We hope you found this information about the available autism walks in Macon useful. If you have a child with autism and are looking for ABA therapy in Macon give us a call. Our dedicated team will be able to answer any of your questions. 

Autism walks promote awareness, research, and community support for those whose lives are affected by autism. 

There are several autism walks and races in and around Savannah. The events always need participants and volunteers, so whether you get involved beforehand or on event day, there are numerous ways to help.

What Are Walks for Autism?

Autism walks are among the most significant fundraising events dedicated to supporting people with autism and their families. These events bring together the autism community and local residents for a positive, healthy activity that drives community awareness.

Autism walks and races raise funds to sponsor new research around treatments and therapies and supply programs and services. 

In addition, the funds raised by autism walks and races support families who lack the financial ability to pay for schools, therapies, and other critical programs that help those with autism achieve their full potential. 

Autism Walks in Savannah, Georgia

While some autism walks are national events coordinated on the same date throughout the country, others are local, benefitting specific programs in the community. Savannah has three main autism walks and races scheduled annually in the spring or fall.

Kennedy 3K Heart and Sole Walk for Autism

The Kennedy 3K Heart and Sole Walk for Autism is held in April by the Paris Baker Foundation to raise money and awareness around autism throughout Savannah. 

The event raises funds for families who need assistance paying for support programs to foster independence and social skills for their loved ones with autism. 

Typically held on Easter weekend in Daffin Park, the Kennedy 3K Heart and Sole Walk for Autism has a festival-like atmosphere. Past years included food, games, a flag football tournament, an Easter egg hunt, and a carnival. 

Those interested in participating or volunteering can follow the event online or visit the Paris Baker Foundation on Facebook to learn more. 

Autism Awareness 5K and Bubble Run

Located in Bluffton, South Carolina, the Ignite the Senses Autism Awareness 5K Bubble Run & Children’s DASH raises money for the Autism Smile Charity, which provides children and young adults with technology to facilitate communication. The race is a flat, fast course and begins with the Children’s DASH event before the 5K starts. 

All Autism Awareness 5K and Bubble Run finishers earn a medal and cross the finish line in a shower of bubbles representative of special needs. Local businesses support the event, which begins at the LowCountry Community Church.

This year’s event was held in September, and those interested in participating in future events can follow the Ignite the Senses page on Facebook or learn more online. 

The Matthew Reardon Center for Autism Virtual Walk/Run

The Matthew Reardon Center for Autism is a Savannah preschool for all children and a year-round day school for autistic children, teens, and young adults. The Center’s advocacy team works with families in southeast Georgia impacted by autism and special needs.

The Matthew Reardon Center holds a virtual walk/run to raise money for the Center’s school and advocacy programs and encourages a $25 donation from participants, who can join the event from anywhere in the world. The virtual walk/run offers prizes as well. 

Registrants can enter by posting pictures on the Center’s Facebook page with the appropriate hashtags.

You can keep track of the April event via the Center’s website or Facebook event page. 

Conclusion

We hope you found this information about the available autism walks in Savannah useful. If you have a child with autism and are looking for ABA therapy in Savannah give us a call. Our dedicated team will be able to answer any of your questions. 

Families navigating the complex world of programs and services for children with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD) diagnosis often feel overwhelmed and alone. However, the help of a support group can offer guidance and encouragement from those who understand their struggles best.

What Are Autism Support Groups?

Autism support groups offer parents and caregivers of those with autism the chance to exchange information, resources, and emotional support with other families in similar circumstances. 

These support groups can be formal or informal. They may address specific topics or give you the chance to vent, ask questions, and establish positive relationships with those who have comparable experiences.

The Importance of Having an Autism Support Group

Living with an autism diagnosis can be isolating without the support of peers undergoing the same challenges. Autism support groups may work with parents, caregivers, siblings, or the child on the spectrum. 

These groups allow you to share information, insights, stories, experiences, and advice. For example, an autism support group can help a parent or caregiver learn about new programs or therapies, share their frustrations with those who understand, or offer problem-solving techniques.

As you forge new friendships through a support group, you can also share childcare with those who have experience with the unique challenges of autism, and siblings can find new companions who may provide additional support. 

The 5 Best Autism Support Groups in Savannah, Georgia

Several support group services in and around Savannah, Georgia, meet the needs of parents, caregivers, and families seeking a community of individuals with the same challenges and experiences.

1. Parent to Parent of Georgia

Parent to Parent of Georgia is an Atlanta-based organization that serves needs across the state. One of its most beneficial offerings is the P2P Supporting Parent program, which matches parents throughout the state with mentors who have experienced similar difficulties. 

These pairings provide guidance and help as participants obtain resources and engage in programs to help their children develop essential skills for success.

2. Effingham County Navigator Team, Inc.

The Effingham County Navigator Team aims to strengthen and advocate for families with disabilities. The nonprofit organization offers a parent-led support group for parents and caregivers, their special needs child or children, and siblings. 

It meets on the second Tuesday of every month at its Resource Center at 711 Zitterour Drive in Rincon, Georgia. The group actively encourages newcomers and members to take advantage of its support and resources.

3. The Lowcountry Autism Resource and Support Group

The Lowcountry Autism Resource and Support Group holds meetings on the last Monday of the month at the Kicklighter Resource Center. Behavioral consultant Ann Shipley and occupational therapist Linda Fruin facilitate these meetings. 

They guide monthly meetings to offer families affected by autism the support and resources they need to teach children with ASD about living independently. For updates on this group, email lowcountryautism@gmail.com.

4. Autism Support Corner, Inc.

Autism Support Corner is a nonprofit organization that provides families affected by ASD with the resources necessary to understand the condition and support their loved ones with special needs.

Autism Support Corner meets on the second Tuesday of every month at St. Anne’s Holy Hall in Richmond Hill, Georgia, from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Contact Jeanette Orr at ascrh@yahoo.com or 912-445-0233 to RSVP and find childcare. 

5. Easterseals of Southern Georgia

Families can take advantage of family support services as part of the many offerings found through Easterseals of Southern Georgia. 

These services include parent and family training; individual, group, and family counseling; and other services aimed at strengthening families and helping them find and use essential resources in their communities.

Conclusion

We hope you found this list of autism support groups useful. If you have a child with autism and are looking for ABA therapy in Savannah give us a call. Our dedicated team will be able to answer any of your questions. 

An autism diagnosis can be daunting. Fortunately there are ample resources for families seeking support in Savannah. 

The resources available in Savannah and the surrounding counties can help patients with ASD and their families navigate challenges and form new connections. 

Resource List for Children with Autism in Savannah, Georgia

Savannah has various organizations that provide aid, guidance, and recreational activities geared toward including those with ASD.

Georgia Autism Center

The Georgia Autism Center provides families with assessments that help pinpoint a diagnosis. Since ASD is a spectrum of conditions, diagnosing a child’s difficulties often requires several tests, including developmental, social, cognitive, adaptive, and behavioral functioning. 

In addition to correctly diagnosing ASD, the Georgia Autism Center coordinates care. It offers educational support and planning, including assisting with developing IEPs and ongoing financial and emotional support for families of children with ASD and other special needs. 

FOCUS Georgia

Originating in Atlanta, FOCUS (Families of Children Under Stress) provides programs and services for families of children with disabilities to enhance their everyday lives. FOCUS works with children up to 29 and supports families who face a wide range of health challenges. 

FOCUS offers support services for over 4,500 families in Georgia. It provides support groups, family activities, overnight camps, adaptive swim teams, and assistance for families seeking resources. 

Chatham County Safety Net

Chatham County Safety Net works throughout the county to offer behavioral and primary health care, improve access to care, and strengthen the infrastructure of the county’s health department. 

Chatham County Safety Net helps those navigating the challenges of the health care system to identify the resources available to them. It works with Children’s Medical Services, Family Support Services, and other programs to ensure that children and families receive the care they need.

F.R.I.E.N.D.S. of Coastal Georgia

Finding Resources in Educational Needs and Developmental Services (F.R.I.E.N.D.S.) of Coastal Georgia offers community services and recreational activities for children with an ASD diagnosis. 

Initially developed in 2009 to provide summer camps and other activities to children with ASD, the organization now offers multiple programs and activities for people in Savannah and the surrounding areas. 

Offerings include summer camps, social and community-based services, social skills groups, parents’ night out events, peer mentoring, and a supportive employment program. The group works with children ranging from school-age to young adults.

Parent to Parent of Georgia

Parent to Parent of Georgia provides services for Georgia families with special health care needs and disabilities. Working with those who have disabilities, from birth through age 26, Parent to Parent of Georgia matches families with the resources they need and provides peer support to those navigating a new diagnosis and challenges. 

The organization has a vast database of providers and groups, information on how to access resources and services, training, and special events geared toward those who may struggle with sensory issues or other challenges. 

Georgia Council on Developmental Disabilities

The Georgia Council on Developmental Disabilities (GCDD) works to create social and policy changes that make new opportunities for residents with developmental disabilities and their families. 

GCDD’s Real Communities Initiative is a nationally recognized concept that offers inclusive activities throughout Georgia, focusing on projects that allow those with and without disabilities to work together socially and civically to develop their communities. 

The organization offers valuable information on inclusive schools, activities, and programs.

Children 1st

Georgia’s Department of Public Health’s Children 1st program identifies and collaborates with families, schools, health care providers, and agencies to support at-risk and developmentally delayed children. 

The program connects eligible children with early intervention programs, public health initiatives, and community-based resources. 

Easterseals of Southern Georgia

Easterseals of Southern Georgia works with children, young adults, adults, and caregivers to support those with autism and their families. Its mission is to provide services, education, advocacy, and outreach to engage those with autism and provide them with the skills necessary to participate actively in their communities. 

They offer family, residential, vocational, rehabilitation, and respite services to provide relief to caregivers. 

Katie Beckett Medicaid Program

The Katie Beckett Medicaid Program allows the state of Georgia to disregard family income when considering the needs of disabled individuals who live at home. Children who meet the criteria can qualify for Medicaid based on the institutional level of care they require. 

The program is also called a TEFRA waiver. It allows those approved to use Medicaid as their secondary insurance, providing coverage for medical supplies and services that primary insurance doesn’t fund. 

Families can pursue additional therapies, such as those offered through Easterseals, that support participants’ long-term success.

Lindsey’s Place Camp 

Lindsey’s Place Camp is a nonprofit organization that offers on-site recreational programs for those with special needs. The experience promotes self-confidence, self-esteem, and independence. 

It provides programs to support the personal growth of participants in a caring, nurturing environment that challenges and supports. Lindsey’s Place Camp hosts weekend retreats with campers at Wesley Gardens in Savannah. 

ABA Therapy in Savannah, Georgia

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is a therapy for those diagnosed with ASD. Using the science of learning, ABA therapy increases positive behaviors while reducing negative, harmful behaviors and is considered to be the gold standard of therapy methodologies to support ASD.

ABA therapy centers on a highly effective approach. It aims to increase communication and language skills, improve social and memory skills, and help children with autism cultivate a longer attention span and focus. 

A quality ABA program does not take a cookie-cutter approach. Instead, they will customize a plan to meet your child’s individual needs. 

When it comes to ABA therapy in Savannah, Hidden Talents is the go to agency. Our dedicated team of therapists will treat your child like family. If you have any questions about ABA therapy, insurance, or how our program works, give us a call. We will be happy to answer any of your questions. 

An autism diagnosis can be tough for any parent to deal with. However, you are not alone. 

Below is a list we have compiled of autism resources for parents living in Macon. 

Resource List for Children with Autism in Macon, Georgia

The following resources include:

• Support groups
• Financial aid and scholarship opportunities
• Charities
• Sports and camps 

These programs support children with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASDs) and their families.

Central GA Autism, LTD

Central GA Autism, LTD is a volunteer-based organization that supports families affected by autism. The active group schedules community events, locates sensory-friendly activities, plans moms’ nights out, and identifies scholarships and other opportunities for children with ASDs and their families.  

Central GA Autism, LTD maintains an active Facebook page with regular updates on events and outings.

The Autism Community in Action 

The Autism Community in Action (TACA) is a national organization providing support, education, and hope to families living with autism. The national group offers free webinars, extensive resources, events, and conferences. 

Additionally, the local group offers support chats, a mentorship program where newly diagnosed families are guided through their new challenges with a family who has gone through similar experiences, and local resources.

Families can stay up to date on local and virtual upcoming events through the TACA Georgia Facebook page. 

Georgia Department of Community Health 

The Georgia Department of Community Health offers several options for families to bring health care benefits to uninsured children. These benefits include: 

• Preventive care 
• Specialist care 
• Primary care
• Dental care 
• Vision care
• Mental health care
• Hospitalizations
• Prescriptions 

Georgia families have a choice of health care plans, allowing them to choose the option that best suits their needs. 

Babies Can’t Wait

The Babies Can’t Wait (BCW) program through the Georgia Department of Public Health assists families with children experiencing developmental delays or who have a condition that can cause delays. 

BCW determines whether a baby or toddler is eligible for the program. The services coordinated through BCW are free to participating families, and the program may be able to provide financial assistance for additional services. 

Babies Can’t Wait is designated for children up to three years old. 

Parent to Parent of Georgia

Parent to Parent of Georgia is a program matching parents with similar experiences so they can support each as they navigate raising a child with special needs. In addition, they offer: 

• An online database to locate local providers and groups
• Information on navigating services and experiences
• Training
• Special events 

Parent to Parent works with families from birth until 26 years of age, from diagnosis through employment. 

Georgia Special Needs Scholarship Program

The Georgia Special Needs Scholarship Program awards funds to thousands of students yearly, allowing those with an IEP or 504 to receive aid to attend private schools that can serve their needs. The scholarship amounts range from $2,000-14,000 yearly. 

Navicent Health Autism Support Service Center

The Navicent Health Autism Support Service Center offers developmental assessments, interventions, and support for children with ASD and their families. 

In addition, they offer physical, occupational, speech and language therapy, pediatric psychology, family support groups, and recreational activities, including swimming lessons and music therapy.

Waves Autism Center

The Waves Autism Center provides children with ASD with in-person and online social and life groups, allowing them to connect with like-minded peers their age to form new friendships and develop social skills. 

The Waves Autism Center also offers summer day camps, including a six-week game design camp that allows members to build new skills while forming new relationships.

Miracle League of Macon

The Miracle League of Macon allows boys and girls ages five and up to learn, play, and enjoy baseball. The organization welcomes children of all skills and needs with weekly practices and games. 

The Macon branch of the national Miracle League plays in the fall and spring. 

Aerie Experiences

Aerie Experiences is an Atlanta-based organization that offers single and multi-day programs for those with emotional, behavioral, educational, and developmental needs. The expeditions focus on teaching character, independence, and self-reliance, and they include adventure-based counseling games and courses. 

In addition, they offer camps for kids, teens, and families and scholarships for those in need. 

ABA Therapy in Macon, Georgia

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy for autism uses the science of learning and behavior to increase positive behaviors and reduce harmful or negative behaviors. 

It’s a highly effective methodology to increase verbal and communication skills, develop a longer attention span and better focus, and improve social skills, memory, and learning.

If you are looking for ABA therapy in Macon give us a call. Hidden Talents is the premiere ABA therapy provider in Georgia and we are ready to help.

Having a child who is on the autism spectrum can put a strain on your finances. You may not know where to turn to for help or how to get the best educational opportunities for your child. 

In Houston, there are a variety of resources for your child with autism. Keep reading to learn more about the resources that are available. 

Resource List for Children with Autism in Houston

Whether you want to find a grant, scholarship, or summer camp suitable for a child with autism, Houston has resources you can turn to. 

Family to Family Network

Family to Family Network helps families with children who have disabilities set goals and find ways of succeeding at them. They provide a variety of services, including:

• Financial planning and security
• Navigating the healthcare, educational, and social services systems
• Referrals to community resources

They also offer training for family members and access to support groups. 

Justin Dart, Jr. Student Accessibility Center

This center is part of the University of Houston. It offers teenagers with disabilities the chance to study in a safe and equal environment. 

They have onsite counseling and all of the needed resources to help your child get the education they deserve in an inclusive manner. 

Texas Parent to Parent

Texas Parent to Parent offers information, resources, support, and education for families with children on the autism spectrum. They offer healthcare training information, as well as the chance for parents to offer each other support. 

There are numerous in-person and online support groups Texas Parent to Parent can put you in contact with. 

Medicaid Buy-In for Children

This program offers Medicaid services at low costs for children with certain disabilities. To be eligible, the child must come from a family that makes too much money to get Medicaid but cannot afford healthcare services. 

Some of the services they cover include:

• Vaccinations
• Checkups
• Hospital services
• Lab tests and X-rays
• Hearing and vision care
• Mental health care
• Treatment of pre-existing conditions

This buy-in option also offers long-term options like nursing home care. 

Lions Clubs of Texas

This organization offers financial assistance for the purchasing of equipment and technology that helps children with disabilities or serious illnesses. 

Variety of Texas

Variety of Texas helps children by providing equipment and medical assistance based on diagnoses. They can cover critical therapies, learning equipment, and much more. 

To apply, you must meet financial criteria. A committee evaluates each application. 

Center for Autism and Related Disorders (CARD)

CARD is the world’s largest autism services provider with a focus on offering behavior analysis to help children learn the social skills they need. It also offers therapy sessions online. 

CARD provides a large amount of support and resources to help parents who have a child on the autism spectrum. 

Autism Care Today

Autism Care Today offers grants for families impacted by autism. The grants can be up to $5,000, and they can cover medical bills, equipment, therapy sessions, as well as personal needs like rent or electric bills. 

To apply, you will need a copy of the autism diagnosis and financial records. 

Friends of Man

Friends of Man offers financial assistance to families who need medical assistance. To qualify, you need to have someone sponsor you. 

This charitable organization can help with medications, dental care, therapy, and more. 

The People Project of Texas

The People Project of Texas provides funding for individuals with special needs, learning disabilities, a history of abuse, or mental health concerns. This funding can go toward finding the right therapy options. 

The Canyon Rice Hope Scholarship

This scholarship offers grants to people with autism and other developmental disorders. The grants can cover equipment, therapy, and even camp costs that insurance does not cover. 

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) Therapy in Houston

Many of these grants and scholarships focus on finding the right type of therapy for children on the autism spectrum. One of these therapies is ABA therapy. 

Applied Behavior Analysis is a type of therapy that uses the understanding of how children learn and how to influence behavior to teach a child with autism new social skills and manage behavioral difficulties. 

During ABA therapy, your child will work one-on-one with the provider. ABA teaches them the negative and positive consequences of their behaviors, allowing them to take that information and apply it to new situations. 

It is a type of therapy that can help children learn simple and complex skills, and it can help parents teach their children at home.

Hidden Talents offers ABA therapy in Houston to help children improve their social skills and learn self-regulation. Each child gets a customized treatment plan to ensure they get the exact help they need. 

You Are Not Alone

If you live in Houston, TX, and you have a child on the autism spectrum, you do not have to feel alone. With all of the resources available, you can get the help you need to improve your child’s life. 

It is very common for children with autism to have vision issues and even more common for those issues to go undetected, according to the Journal of the American Association for Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus. 

Below, you can learn what type of vision problems a child on the autism spectrum may have and how you can help.

Vision Problems for Children with Autism

Children who are on the autism spectrum can have a variety of vision problems that have a significant impact on their daily lives. They tend to have visual processing issues that manifest as vision problems. 

One typical concern children with autism face is coordinating central and peripheral vision, which makes it difficult for them to follow an object with their eyes. The child may also turn their head to use peripheral vision instead of central vision. 

A child with autism may also have an eye movement disorder. Eye movement disorders include crossed eyes, or strabismus, which occurs when the eyes are not aligned and point in different directions. 

There may also be issues with visual stimuli, as some autistic children are very sensitive to visual input. This can mean that they may not want to make eye contact with people or that they may constantly move their eyes. 

Other common concerns are visual-spatial processing issues. These issues can lead to repetitive actions like blinking or wanting to watch spinning objects. 

Some children with autism might want to run instead of walk because of vision midline shift syndrome. In this syndrome, visual-spatial processing does not match up with the balance centers. 

Symptoms that can indicate your autistic child may have a vision problem include:

• Looking beyond or through objects
• Extreme fear of heights
• Absence of appropriate fear of heights
• Lazy eye
• Rolling eyes
• Visual stimming, such as moving hands in front of eyes rapidly
• Light sensitivity 
• Head-turning

These symptoms can make a child feel confused and anxious, lowering their quality of life. 

Effects of Vision Problems

An autistic child with vision problems is less likely to want to make eye contact, which can affect them socially. They may not want to verbalize or engage in playing with others if they are visually overstimulated.

Visual stimming is another concern for children with autism and vision problems. 

To manage visual overload, many autistic children choose to flap their hands in front of their eyes. This can also soothe strained eyes, so the child may engage in visual stimming behavior if they feel tired or overwhelmed. 

Some children on the autistic spectrum develop posture issues due to vision problems, too, especially if there is an interruption to the organization of visual-spatial processing. Children with these issues may frequently trip and fall or develop the habit of walking on their toes. 

You can seek a vision evaluation to determine the specific vision concerns affecting your child.

Visual Evaluations for Children With Autism

If you think your child may have vision problems, the best thing to do is to reach out to experts. Professionals who have experience treating children on the autism spectrum will perform several evaluations to see what the problem is.

These evaluations will assess various factors, including your child’s eye tracking, which refers to the eyes’ ability to track moving objects. Eye tracking problems may result in your child tending to look at things or people sideways. 

The professional will also evaluate whether your child has binocular vision or eye teaming problems, which refers to limitations in their eyes’ ability to work together to gather visual information. If your child has headaches, double or blurry vision, or eye strain, these signs could indicate a binocular vision problem. 

The exam will also check for eye movement disorders, which can make unified eye movements difficult. In children with autism, the most common eye movement disorder is strabismus. 

Most professionals will also check the child’s visual acuity to see how well they identify shapes and details at a distance. 

After the evaluation, you will be able to begin treatment for your child’s vision issues.

Treatment 

Several options are available for the treatment of vision problems in children with autism. 

One that can be extremely helpful is vision therapy, an evidence-based treatment that helps strengthen the coordination and connection of the brain and eyes. 

Vision therapy can take place both in-office and at home. It often yields results after about four months. 

To supplement this therapy, a professional may want to add computer-based games and balance boards. 

Prism lenses are another treatment option for children with visual-spatial problems. 

These lenses move objects and images to the locations where the brain thinks they should go. Prism lenses might also tremendously reduce your child’s anxiety by helping them feel physically safe. 

Know Your Options

If you think your child has vision issues, contact professionals who will help you find the right treatments. You can give your child a higher quality of life by assisting them in interpreting visual input better. 

Autism walks have made it easier for people to understand the challenges those with autism and their families face. 

Below, you can learn more about what autism walks are and how to participate in walks in Georgia. 

What Are Walks for Autism?

A walk for autism is an event that spreads autism awareness and helps raise funds for medical research. Participants usually obtain support from sponsors who donate to the cause. 

The best walks for autism have clear goals, including:

• Improving screening and prevention services
• Funding breakthrough research
• Helping autistic children transition into adulthood
• Providing improved information and local services

Some walks are more structured, while others allow participants to go at their own pace. Some are free, while others have a small participation fee or a minimum amount of money a sponsor must provide. 

For these walks, many people choose to create T-shirts. If you decide to do this, opt for bright colors to help you identify your team and to help others know the purpose of the walk. 

People on the autism spectrum are welcomed at these events. If you want to help someone with autism participate in the walk, you should have a plan ready in case the event becomes overwhelming. 

The Main Walks in Georgia

Georgia offers excellent opportunities for people who want to participate in a walk for autism. Here are the main walks to consider. 

1. Autism Speaks Walk

The largest autism fundraising walk in the world, the Autism Speaks Walk, raises funds to help with research and advocacy and create essential services and programs. 

Because people with autism can sometimes feel overwhelmed by sensory stimuli, the walk provides quiet spaces where walkers with autism can get a bit of respite. 

You can participate as a Team Captain and recruit more people for your team or fundraise through Facebook and other social media platforms. You can support participants via the walk’s website. 

The walk allows people to meet service providers in the area and get to know other local families who face the same challenges. 

The Autism Speaks Walk does not charge a registration fee, but it does encourage you to set a fundraising goal. 

The next Atlanta walk is on October 1, 2022. It begins at 8 a.m. with registration and concludes at 11 a.m. 

The walk begins at The Battery Atlanta, located at 800 Battery Avenue SE in Atlanta, GA. For more information, call 470-924-0639 or email MidSouth@AutismSpeaks.org.

2. Georgia Race for Autism

The Georgia Race for Autism helps Spectrum Support Group fund summer camps and clubs for people in the community who are on the autism spectrum. 

Along with a 5K race, the event also features a one-mile Fun Run, a 100-yard dash, and a Tot Trot, allowing entire families to participate. 

Race day coincides with the Fall Festival, which includes the following fun activities:

• Petting zoo
• Pony rides
• Inflatable slides
• Bounce house
• Cornhole games
• Hayrides
• Velcro sticky wall
• Face painting
• Hamster balls
• Inflatable obstacle course

There will also be a clown, a silent auction, and food vendors that offer gluten-free options. 

You can register as a vendor, sponsor, or race participant. 

Participant fees are $30 for the full 5K run, $25 for the one-mile run, and $20 for the Tot Trot and 100-yard dash. 

The race begins at the Gwinnett County Fairgrounds at 405 Sugarloaf Parkway in Lawrenceville, GA. You can learn more by contacting claire@atl-spectrum.com

Help Autism Research and More

Whether you have a family member or another loved one on the autism spectrum or want to help people in your community who do, joining these events is a great place to start. 

Contact the race or walk to register and reserve your spot.

If you are looking for the best ABA therapy in Georgia give us a call. Our friendly team is ready to answer any of your questions. 

Parenting a child on the autism spectrum can often make you feel isolated and without support. If you live in Georgia, however, you have access to multiple support groups that can make your and your child’s life a bit easier.

But what are support groups for autism, and how can they help? 

What Are Autism Support Groups?

Autism support groups are a group of parents, grandparents, caretakers, or anyone else who is raising a child with autism. Some support groups also welcome teachers or other professionals who want to learn how to interact with and help children with autism. 

These groups make it possible for parents to help each other, offering support through difficult moments and sharing information on educational or medical matters. Autism support groups can help those who are caring for a child with autism feel less alone with the challenges they face.

Primarily run by volunteers, these supportive communities can be of any size. But whatever their size, they are of profound importance. 

The Importance of Having an Autism Support Group

Autism support groups offer support to the entire family of a child on the autism spectrum. They provide a way to gather information on autism and learn new strategies.

They also give you a space to vent frustrations without fear of judgment. Raising a child with autism is challenging and can be overwhelming, so having an outlet that lets you express what you are going through is essential. 

Siblings of children with autism can have complicated feelings about their siblings and are often also in unique positions from which to offer care. Including them in a support group can ensure they get the information and encouragement they need. 

Support groups can also help fill a gap in local services. Some groups offer training for parents and other family members, as well, to help improve skills that can help them raise an autistic child. 

Support groups can offer training in:

• Behavior management 
• Self-help skills
• Understanding the special education system
• Working with medical professionals 
• Learning to use adaptive technology and equipment 
• Identifying community services

They also help teachers who have children with autism under their professional care, offering guidance and teaching strategies to handle behavioral concerns.

The 5 Best Autism Support Groups in Georgia

If you have a child on the autism spectrum and live in Georgia, these are some of the best support groups to which you can turn. 

1. Autism Speaks Georgia Support Group

This support group provides information and promotes solutions for individuals on the autism spectrum and their families. They offer advocacy and support and provide education to promote understanding and acceptance of people with autism. 

Autism Speaks also helps fund research and focuses on helping families get the proper diagnosis as early as possible. It is a group that helps families have reliable access to the information they need. 

This group serves the entire state of Georgia. You can contact them at georgia@autismspeaks.org or by phone at 770-451-0570

2. Spectrum Autism Support Group

Spectrum Autism Support Group offers monthly sessions, respite programs, and summer camps to help families of children with autism, providing information, support, and social skills improvement. They offer groups for:

• Siblings
• Spanish speakers
• Parents of teens with Asperger’s syndrome
• Grandparents
• Parents
• Adults on the autism spectrum

These support groups help over 1,500 Atlanta area and Gwinnett County families. You can reach them at info@atl-spectrum.com or at their mailing address: P.O. Box 3132, Suwanee, GA 30024.

3. Marcus Autism Center Support Group

Marcus Autism Center helps fund autism research and provides support groups for parents and programs for young adults and children with autism. It also offers bilingual groups and groups geared toward all members of a family of someone with autism. 

You can reach the Marcus Autism Center at 404-785-9400 or visit their main campus at 1920 Briarcliff Road, Atlanta, GA 30329-4010, Monday to Friday.

4. Georgia Parents Support Network

The Georgia Parents Support Network offers information and support for families of children with autism as well as other developmental and mental health concerns. This includes a new program that helps identify and provide outreach to teens and young adults on the autism spectrum who are facing homelessness. 

You can reach the Georgia Parents Support Network at info@gpsn.org or by calling 844-278-6945 or 404-758-4500.

5. Autism Engagement Group

The Autism Engagement Group is a support group for young adults on the autism spectrum. It offers the chance to build social skills, find community, discuss daily challenges, and much more. 

The group serves the Atlanta area and surrounding counties. You can reach them at 404-860-1894.

Get the Support You Need

You do not have to go through this on your own. By turning to support groups for autism, you can get the information and assistance you need. 

If you are looking for the best ABA therapy in Georgia give us a call. Our friendly team is ready to answer any of your questions. 

According to the Centers for Disease Control, 1 in 44 children in the US gets a diagnosis that falls within the autism spectrum. Having a child with autism can be rewarding as well as challenging, which is why the state of Georgia offers a variety of resources to help. 

Learn more about the options available. 

Resource List for Children with Autism in Georgia

If your child has autism and you live in Georgia, there are financial resources, scholarship opportunities, and support groups you can turn to for help. Here are some of the best in the state.

Parent to Parent (P2P) of Georgia

This resource offers help to parents of children with disabilities or who have special healthcare needs. It allows parents to help others, and it offers various support groups parents can join in person or online. 

West Georgia Autism Foundation

The West Georgia Autism Foundation offers grants to families who need help caring for an autistic child. You can receive one grant each year. 

This foundation offers community outreach and focuses on helping families enrich the life of a child on the autism spectrum. 

Social Skills Summer Camp

The Social Skills Summer Camp is a camp that welcomes children ranging from kindergarten age to teens who are on the autism spectrum. It helps children improve social skills in a fun environment. 

There are scholarships available. The children best suited for the camp are those who have verbal skills. 

Learning on the Log

This recreational program teaches social skills to help build relationships using sensory recreational activities. Team building exercises, swimming, and hiking are some of the many activities. 

For younger children, the program also offers a day camp and preschool camp. They offer scholarships for those in need. 

Georgia Autism Center

The Georgia Autism Center helps families of children on the autism spectrum get accurate diagnoses, create the best developmental strategies, and teach the child how to gain independence. 

Specialists assess the financial circumstances of each family to provide the community and financial support needed. 

Dottie Adams Scholarship Fund

The Georgia Council of Developmental Abilities offers grants to help individuals and families with autistic children go to events and conferences related to advocacy or that have an educational purpose. 

Georgia Kids FIRST Special Needs Fund

This is a general scholarship fund focusing on offering scholarships for children K-12 with autism and other special needs that make learning difficult. The scholarships allow families to get the educational help their child needs. 

Georgia’s Special Needs Scholarship

This scholarship allows parents of children with special needs, including those who have autism, to use state money to send the child to a private school that can offer the educational help the child deserves. 

Autism Foundation of Georgia

The Autism Foundation of Georgia offers funding for the creation of programs geared toward people with autism, especially children. 

PeachCare for Kids

The Georgia Department of Community Health has PeachCare for Kids, which helps children who do not have insurance that covers the healthcare needs they have. The program offers:

• Preventive care
• Primary care
• Specialist care
• Dental care
• Vision care

It can also cover hospitalizations, emergency room service visits, mental healthcare, and medications. To be eligible, your child cannot have current coverage or Medicaid eligibility. 

ABA therapy is one of the treatment options they offer. 

ABA Therapy in Georgia

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is a type of therapy that focuses on the science of behavior and learning. During ABA therapy, your child works one-on-one with the practitioner. 

The goal of ABA therapy is to improve social skills. It can also help:

• Teach the child to transfer learned behaviors to new situations
• Teach the child how to react to new environments
• Reduce negative behaviors
• Implement self-control and self-regulation 

It is a particularly excellent treatment option to help children on the autism spectrum adapt to different social scenarios. 

It can teach a child that negative behavior is not accepted while also rewarding positive behavior. This teaches the child that there are consequences to how they act. 

ABA therapy also helps with the improvement of language skills. This therapy can be easily customized to fit each child and their particular needs. 

One of the centers that focus on this type of therapy is Hidden Talents. Hidden Talents is one of the premier providers of ABA therapy in Georgia. 

Hidden Talents offers ABA Therapy throughout Georgia from the comfort of your home so your child feels comfortable. The providers of this type of therapy will always work closely with the parents to create the best type of therapy plan for the child. 

Get Help in Georgia

If you live in Georgia and have a child diagnosed with autism, it is crucial that you know what kind of help you can turn to. There are excellent resources out there that can make a difference for your family. 

Stimming is a common behavior that children with autism engage in. It refers to self-stimulation or self-soothing, and it deals with repetitive movements, sounds, or words that help a child with autism center themselves in response to their environment. 

This article will explore what purpose stimming serves, examples of stimming in children, and what techniques can help manage it. 

What Is Stimming?

Professionals often refer to stimming actions as stereotypies or stereotyped movements. Stimming is a self-stimulating and self-soothing behavior that involves repeated movements. 

Lots of people engage in stimming by tapping pencils while they think, twirling their hair, or drumming their fingers. However, stimming is most commonly seen in children and adults with autism. 

Stimming is part of the diagnostic criteria for autism.

Scientists believe that stimming is something children with autism do to steady themselves in response to anxiety, an overwhelming environment, or an understimulating environment. There are different types of stimming, including:

• Tactile (touch)
• Olfactory (smell)
• Visual (sight)
• Auditory (hearing)
• Vestibular (balance)

Stimming can present itself as full-body rocking, hands flapping continuously, repetitive noises or words, hard blinking, and more. 

Children with autism may display mild stimming behaviors, or the stimming may get in the way of their life. It may interfere with schoolwork, social activities, and more. 

For children diagnosed with autism, severe stimming behaviors can result in social exclusion and learning difficulties. In some cases, the stimming can even be destructive or harmful to the child.

There are children who engage in biting behaviors, which can harm themselves and others, and there are many who perform repetitive actions that make it difficult for them to focus on playing and learning new skills. 

Let us look a bit more closely at the most common types of stimming in children with autism. 

Types of Stimming

One of the most common forms of stimming is tactile. Tactile stimming can include:

• Hand-flapping
• Finger-flicking
• Rubbing hands
• Scratching hands
• Biting hands
• Rubbing objects
• Picking at scabs
• Swallowing objects

Auditory stimming refers to repetitive behaviors that impact a child’s sense of hearing. Some common auditory stimming actions include:

• Humming
• Grunting
• Screeching
• Repetitive speech

Visual stimming connects to the child’s sense of sight and can involve:

• Blinking repeatedly
• Staring at certain objects
• Turning lights on and off
• Lining up objects

Olfactory stimming involves the sense of smell. Some common behaviors include: 

• Smelling objects
• Tasting objects
• Licking objects or hands

Vestibular stimming is related to balance. Some common examples include:

• Rocking back and forth
• Spinning or twirling 
• Hanging upside down
• Repeatedly jumping 

Now that we know the behaviors that children with autism commonly engage in, let us look at why they do so. 

Why Do Autistic People Stim?

There are a number of reasons scientists and researchers think autistic people stim. 

In many cases, the behaviors help them deal with sensory overload. If the child is in an environment that overstimulates them, focusing on one behavior helps them find a balance.

Children with autism may also stim when they feel understimulated. If they don’t feel their senses are engaged enough, they can begin stimming to provide the lacking stimulation. 

Another reason people with autism turn to stimming is that it can help them with anxiety. By focusing on one behavior at a time, they can reduce the anxiety they experience. 

Children with autism may also engage in stimming to provide relief from pain. Stimming may release endorphins, which can decrease pain. 

It can also be a way to express enthusiasm or excitement if the child doesn’t know how to do so in another manner. 

Stimming can work as a self-management tool, as well. It can help children with autism express frustration or anger and help them relax. 

In some instances, nonverbal children use stimming to express distress or pain if they have an underlying medical condition. If you see your child pointing to a particular part of their body repeatedly, have a doctor check for any issues. 

Some children with autism also use stimming as a form of getting attention. If they received attention in the past for this behavior, they might engage in it again to get the same results. 

These are the reasons autistic children turn to stimming, but is it possible to control it, and should you try to?

Can You Control Stimming?

It is important to understand that most forms of stimming are not harmful. In fact, they can help your child and give them the control they need over their own emotions.

You should only worry about stimming if it affects their social interactions, if it makes it more difficult for them to play, if it interferes with learning, or if it is dangerous or harmful to them or others. 

The goal of dealing with stimming is to ensure the child has self-control. It is not helpful for a parent or any other authority figure to display anger or frustration at the behaviors, but it can be useful to show children ways to manage them. 

Let us look at the management of stimming a bit more. 

How to Manage Stimming

One of the most crucial things to understand is what is causing the stimming. By knowing this, you can help your child modify the behaviors. 

If the problem is overstimulation, it is important to evaluate their environment and see what can be causing the stimming. You may have to take the child to a quiet room or give them just one toy or one activity to focus on at a time. 

If the problem is that the environment is not stimulating enough, it can help to add music in the background. You can also offer more toys and activities, textures, or more playtime outside. 

There are some schools that have sensory rooms for children with autism who require more stimulation. Some helpful equipment can be items the child can bounce on, squish, or spin on. 

If you see that your child uses stimming to manage anxiety, you will want to see what is causing it. Ask yourself whether something has changed in the environment and whether you can find a way to change it back or help your child adjust to the change. 

One excellent way to help your child is by preparing them for new situations and giving them the skills they need to handle new environments. If you know your child has to go into a crowded room, for example, tell them about it, and encourage them to go through the experience by offering them a reward. 

It can also be a good idea to add a daily exercise routine. Different kinds of exercise offer different kinds of stimulation, so it’s important to understand your child’s unique sensory needs when choosing an activity.

For example, an understimulated child may enjoy running because it provides repetitive, firm input for the joints. Swimming at a quiet pool may offer calming water pressure for an overstimulated nervous system. 

If an episode of stimming begins, it is better not to stop everything but to instead engage with your child. Encourage them to play with a favorite toy or perform a favorite activity so that they have something else to focus on. 

As long as the stimming is not dangerous or self-harming, you may want to consider joining in, especially in activities like stacking or moving objects. This will allow your child to still get interpersonal interactions. 

For many children, it can be helpful for them to know that the feelings they experience are normal and that there are other ways of managing them. Just knowing that their parents understand what they feel can help reduce anxiety. 

If the behaviors interfere with the child’s life and affect their social interactions, schoolwork, or playtime, you always have the option to turn to behavioral therapists or other specialists. 

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is a particularly helpful type of therapy for children on the autism spectrum. This individualized therapy option focuses on finding your child’s strengths and weaknesses, and it works to improve social skills by using learning theory principles. 

ABA also helps with self-control and self-regulation, making it possible for your child to learn ways of dealing with stress without resorting to stimming. It makes it possible to reduce negative behaviors without adding to the stress. 

It can also help your child manage changes to their environment and apply the learned strategies to new situations. 

A provider like Hidden Talents ABA can be a good place to begin if you think behavioral therapy can have a positive impact on your child. 

Always rule out medical conditions before allowing your child to continue with stimming. Lots of nonverbal children use stimming as a communication tool, so have their doctor perform a physical exam to rule out any underlying causes. 

Understanding Your Autistic Child 

Stimming is an aspect of having a child with autism, but it doesn’t have to be a negative thing. As long as the stimming does not interfere with your child’s life excessively, it is a coping mechanism that can give your child the self-control they need when dealing with anxiety and challenging environments. 

By understanding why your child engages in these behaviors, what they mean, and how you can help them deal with them, you can offer them the support they need. 

Having a child with autism will mean extra costs. Many families struggle to pay for the services they need so they can offer their children the care they deserve. 

In Texas, there are many grants that can help families who have autistic children. Learn more about what a grant is and which ones may be available to you.

The Benefits of Grants and Scholarships for Children with Autism

A grant is a way for an entity, usually the government, a company, or a foundation, to give money to an individual or another entity for a specific purpose. It is not a loan because you don’t have to pay the money back.

The grant cycle begins with the entity creating the funding, reviewing applications, deciding on who is the right recipient, and then implementing the grant. 

Grants for families with autistic children usually have specific focuses, like offering money for learning or behavioral therapy. Some of these grants have income caps, while others offer grants to anyone, regardless of economic circumstances. 

In Texas, grants for autistic children can help cover costs, including: 

• Transportation costs
• Vacation costs
• Animal therapy sessions
• Nutritional assistance
• Special education
• Education after high school 

Turning to a grant can mean being able to offer your child the help they need. This can include emotional support, learning assistance, and even the chance to improve social skills.

Let’s look at what to know when applying for a grant. 

What Should I Know Before Applying for a Grant or a Scholarship?

Applying for a grant can seem overwhelming at first, but there are tips that can help you manage the process. 

The first thing to remember is that you want to carefully read the application process and the requirements for the grant. You want to make sure that the grant is a match for your needs and that you qualify for it so you don’t waste time applying for something you cannot benefit from. 

If the grant is for the purchase of equipment or specialized treatments, consult with your child’s doctor before applying. They will be able to tell you whether it is really going to be helpful for your child or not.

If you do get chosen for the grant, it is always appropriate to send a thank you letter. 

It can also be helpful for the grant to receive pictures of your family or your child engaging in the activities the grant pays for. This can allow the grant to get more donations in the future to help other people. 

Remember that if you don’t get chosen the first time around, keep trying. The worst thing you can do is give up. 

If you are ready to apply for some grants in Texas, we offer a list of some of the best options. 

The Best Grants for Children with Autism in Texas

These are some of the most helpful grants in Texas, but the options on the list are by no means the only ones you have available. 

Different Needz Foundation 

This foundation provides grants for children with developmental disabilities. The grant helps pay for special equipment for physical therapy, like wheelchairs, braces, and gait trainers, as well as for many other types of therapies.

Applications for the Different Needz grant become available in January, and the foundation announces the recipients in May of each year. 

The Maggie Welby Foundation

This scholarship provides money for children from kindergarten up to 12th grade who have a disability or illness and have financial needs. The family of Maggie Welby created the scholarship to help children in need have positive experiences that can help them manage their disabilities. 

To apply, you must complete the application and submit it with an essay. 

ACT Today

Autism Care Today offers a grant that can help the families of autistic children get the monetary support they need. The value of the grant may be up to $5,000. 

They offer grants to cover services and equipment, and they have a special grant for children with autism who come from a military family. They can offer funds to provide:

• Protective helmets
• GPS trackers 
• Sensory equipment 
• Installation of protective fencing

The grants can also cover the costs of iPads to help children with autism get access to special apps created for their development. They can also cover the costs of Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA), which is one of the leading therapies for autism. 

Other programs that ACT Today can help with include Social Skills Learning and summer programs created for children with autism. There is also Autism Care Today Español for Latino families. 

Autism Spectrum Disorder Foundation

This foundation offers scholarships for types of therapies as diverse as equine therapy, swimming lessons, and more. 

The scholarships make it possible for children with autism to receive iPads so they can have access to some of the best developmental apps. Autistic children who struggle with interpersonal relationships and social skills can also benefit from attending the Social Skills Camp, for which the foundation has a scholarship. 

The Autism Spectrum Disorder Foundation also offers its holiday gift card program. For families who would not be able to otherwise celebrate the holidays, the foundation can help. 

Organization for Autism Research

For older children who would like to continue receiving education after high school, this grant offers the chance to get monetary assistance. The scholarship is for children across the autism spectrum. 

There are various options, including scholarships for children who want to attend two or four years of undergraduate college, as well as scholarships for vocational schools, technical schools, and more. There is an option for children of color, as well. 

Get the Assistance Your Family Needs

Know that you are not alone if you have an autistic child and you find yourself struggling. There are many scholarships and grants available in Texas to help you get the support you need for your child. 

By taking the time to learn about the options you have, you can find the right assistance to be able to offer your child the quality of life they deserve. 

Anxiety disorder is a type of mental health condition that’s characterized by feelings of nervousness, rapid heartbeat, sweating, fear, and panic. 

Cognitive and behavioral techniques have been at the forefront of anxiety treatment, and one such example is ABA therapy. 

Read on to learn more about this form of anxiety treatment.

What Is ABA Therapy? 

ABA is the acronym for Applied Behavioral Analysis. It’s a therapy centered on the science of learning and behavior. The aim is to encourage desired behaviors and restrict harmful ones. 

ABA therapy uses a couple of strategies to learn, predict, and transform behavior. Positive reinforcement and A-B-C (antecedent, behavior, and consequence) are critical techniques used in ABA. 

Positive Reinforcement

Positive reinforcement encourages a pattern of good behavior by offering a reward whenever good behavior is exhibited. The reward, in this case, has to be meaningful to the person. That could include praise, money, a toy, tickets to the cinema, and more. 

A-B-C

Another strategy used in ABA therapy is A-B-C. A-B-C represents “antecedent, behavior, and consequence.” 

An antecedent happens right before the goal behavior and what triggers the behavior. It could be a verbal request or command, a physical reward such as a toy or money, or an environmental trigger such as light or sound. 

Behavior is the individual’s response or lack of it following the antecedent. It could be an action or a spoken response. 

The consequence follows the behavior. It may include a reward or lack of a reaction because of unwanted behaviors.

What Is Anxiety? 

Anxiety is a way in which your body reacts to stress. It’s how your body notifies you about threatening situations in readiness to deal with them. But your body should not always be on the alert. Normal anxiety can turn into chronic anxiety, causing you to be in a constant state of alertness.

Chronic anxiety may manifest itself in the following ways:

Behaviorally

Behavioral symptoms of anxiety are what you do when you are anxious. They attempt to deal with the distasteful aspects of anxiety. They may include:

• Avoiding situations that heighten your anxiety. For example, using the stairs instead of a lift.
• Taking part in unhealthy behaviors such as overdrinking or excessive smoking.
• Staying indoors.
• Becoming too attached to an individual or place that you to try to avoid separation.

Physiologically

Anxiety may manifest itself psychologically. Its symptoms may include:

• Shortness of breath
• Nausea
• Stomach “butterflies”
• Insomnia
• Muscle tension
• Sweat
• Migraines
• Chest pains
• A racing heart

While anybody can suffer anxiety, research shows that autistic children are more predisposed to anxiety attacks. Read on to learn more.

Children With Autism and Anxiety 

Autistic children often worry or get stressed about things that other children don’t usually worry about. So, they experience intense anxiety more regularly compared to other kids. 

The following are some of the common triggers for anxiety in autistic children:

• Changes from the norm/routine: For instance, failure to go swimming because the weather is chilly.
• Changes in surroundings: For instance, when they relocate to a new house.
• Unusual social situations: For instance, when the child attends a birthday celebration at an unfamiliar house.
• Times of transition: Examples include the start of puberty, starting high school, or shifting to a new school.
• Sensory sensitivities: The autistic child may have sensitivity to bright lights, specific noises, or certain food flavors and aromas.
• Fear of a specific action, situation, or object: The child may fear sleeping on their own, going to the washrooms, or the sight of insects.

You may encounter symptoms of more than one type of anxiety. Below, we discuss the different types of anxiety that you may experience.

The Different Types of Anxiety 

Generalized Anxiety Disorder

With generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), you’re constantly in a state of anxiety and worry. Your concerns relate to different aspects of ordinary life, like health, work, family, or money problems, instead of just one major issue. The anxiety is intense, unrelenting, and interferes with your regular life. 

The symptoms include:

• Restlessness
• Sleeping difficulties
• Trouble concentrating
• Excessive worrying
• Irritability
• Muscle aches, headaches, or baffling pains

Social Anxiety Disorder

Social anxiety disorder makes you feel a crushing fear and worry about others judging you in social situations. In most cases, you fear that you may be a source of embarrassment or ridicule, so you end up avoiding social settings altogether. 

Symptoms related to social anxiety disorder include:

• Blushing
• Sweating
• Trembling
• Fear of making eye contact with other people
• Rigid body posture
• Being afraid of being judged negatively
• Stomachaches

Panic Disorder

With panic disorder, you experience panic or fear attacks regularly and unexpectedly, often for no apparent reason. These panic attacks are always more intense than other forms of anxiety disorders. They can last anywhere between 5 and 20 minutes, and you might end up constantly worrying about the next panic attack. 

A panic attack comes with the following symptoms:

• Sweating
• Feeling of choking
• Pounding heart
• Shaking or trembling
• Chest pains
• A fear of dying
• Hot flushes
• A churning stomach

How Can ABA Therapy Benefit Autistic Children With Anxiety? 

ABA therapy can help autistic children with anxiety in the following ways:

• ABA therapy enhances independent life skills in autistic children with anxiety. These include self-care aspects like comfortably sleeping through the night, toileting, getting dressed, and brushing their teeth.
• Behavioral interventions applied in ABA help teach autistic children the social skills that are important in making friends and relating with their peers. 
• ABA therapy encourages proper parenting by allowing the active participation of parents in the treatment plan. As an autistic child’s parent, you get a deeper understanding of your kid’s habits and behaviors, mainly when they are nervous and cannot communicate.
• Your child’s life satisfaction can rise with ABA therapy. When they can do things they couldn’t do before, they will feel satisfied because of their enhanced quality of life.

The Bottom Line

ABA therapy is all about reducing the negative symptoms associated with anxiety through positive reinforcement and A-B-C techniques. If performed right, it can help decrease problem behaviors and improve attention, focus, and memory. And within a short period, you’ll be able to see remarkable progress in your kid’s social life.

Helping autistic children for a living can be incredibly rewarding and fulfilling.

After you read this article, you will know what the best careers for working with autistic children are and how you can pick the most suitable one based on your passions and preferences.

What is autism?

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurological condition and learning disability that impacts a child’s behaviors, development, and skills.

In brief, here are some of the main characteristics that define autism:

• Developmental Delays: Autistic children tend to develop certain skills and capabilities at a later stage in life. Examples include saying their first word and responding to their name.
• Communication Barriers: On a social level, kids with ASD show a lack of interest in playing with others, avoid maintaining eye contact, and struggle when they communicate. 
• Behavioral Challenges: An autistic boy or girl may resort to aggression instead of using their words, engage in repetitive habits, and obsessively focus on a single object or activity.
• Sensitive Sensory Functions: Children with ASD are usually very sensitive to bright lights and/or loud noises.

If you’re passionate about helping autistic kids overcome these issues and manage their symptoms, consider embarking on one of the career paths from the following list.

The 10 best careers for working with autistic children

Applied Behavior Analyst

An applied behavior analyst (ABA) is a therapist who specializes in evaluating a patient’s behaviors and habits, identifying the environmental factors that influence them, and putting together a treatment plan accordingly.

To become an Applied Behavior Analyst, follow these steps:

1. Earn a bachelor’s degree in a field like psychology or education.
2. Get a master’s degree in applied behavior analysis or a related area.
3. Pass your exam and get licensed by your state.

Those who want to take a step further in their career should think about becoming a board certified behavior analyst (BCBA).

Board Certified Behavior Analyst

A BCBA is an independent ABA therapy provider who is also in charge of overseeing Applied Behavior Analysts and other professionals that have similar certifications.

Wondering how to become a BCBA? Here is what you need to do:

1. Obtain your undergraduate degree.
2. Enroll in and finish a graduate program that’s certified by the Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI).
3. Find a certified supervisor to oversee your required 1,500 to 2,000 fieldwork hours.
4. Pass the BCBA exam and apply for your state license.

When getting a masters degree is not possible or practical, other careers for helping autistic children may be more suitable.

Autism Spectrum Disorder Specialist

You can become a certified autism specialist in just four months by enrolling in a verified training program.

Many professionals who already work with children that have learning disabilities, such as psychologists and special education teachers, seek to be certified ASD specialists in order to enhance their skills and earn a higher salary.

Special Education Teacher

Special education teachers support kids that have a variety of emotional, neurological, and learning difficulties, including autistic children.

Before you embark on this career path, you must get an undergraduate degree. To teach at a public school, you will also need a certification or license from your state’s government.

If you want to work in an educational setting, but without becoming a teacher, you have other job options, as well.

School Social Worker

School social work entails supporting students, parents, teachers, and administrators on overcoming challenges related to mental health and learning disabilities.

School social workers tend to focus on issues that students may face both at home and in the classroom.

The requirements for becoming a school social worker include getting a degree in social work and undergoing the necessary training programs.

Art Therapist

Art therapy is provided by supervised and trained masters-degree holders who treat neurological and mental health problems through painting, drawing, and creating other forms of art.

Music Therapist

In the same vein, music therapy revolves around singing and using musical instruments to address mental, sensory, and motor-skill difficulties.

These professionals are also required to be trained and supervised graduate-degree holders.

Horse Therapist

Horse therapy is an effective way for helping autistic children improve their symptoms. The approach mainly focuses on riding, feeding, and caring for horses.

Some horse therapy sessions are offered by non-certified specialists, while others can only be conducted by certified and licensed therapists with graduate degrees.

Babysitter

You may be asking yourself: What does a babysitter do for autistic children? In short, they help them (and kids, in general) with doing their homework, making meals, going to and from school, and other household tasks.

The requirements for becoming a babysitter are simple. They are as follows:

• Be at the minimum age or older, which is either 16 or 18.
• Get trained by the employer.
• Obtain each of the first aid and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) certifications.

The job duties of a babysitter are relatively basic and straightforward in comparison to similar career paths. 

Caregiver

Professional caregivers assist patients who have physical or mental needs with fulfilling their day-to-day tasks. This includes adults and children who are diagnosed with ASD.

A caregiver is hired and trained by an employing agency. The requirements for this role are determined by the hiring company.

The same could be said about some of the other occupations that are on our list.

By going through them, you can easily find a suitable career for working with autistic children based on your academic background, willingness to enroll in graduate degree programs, professional preferences, and passions.

Autistic children and those with developmental delays tend to experience challenges with joint attention. 

If you’ve been wondering how you can help a child with a joint attention deficit, then don’t worry. You’ll know how by the time you’re done reading this article. 

What Is Joint Attention? 

Joint attention (JA) involves sharing a united focus on something with another person for the purpose of interacting with each other. The object of focus could be other people, objects, events, or concepts. 

While engrossed in joint attention, you can communicate non-verbally, for example, by gazing at an object and then looking at the other individual. 

Joint attention starts in infancy and develops throughout early childhood, and the first instances usually involve a child and their parents. These moments happen when the child and the parent switch their attention and eye contact back and forth from an item to one another.

Some early joint attention abilities may include a child looking on the same book page as their parent or reaching out to an adult for a lift. Advanced joint attention skills may include the child’s ability to focus on a game or request food, toys, or other items. 

What Are Examples of Joint Attention?

Joint attention in toddlers may occur in two ways: spontaneous initiations and responses to the actions of other people. In most cases, it involves the use of eye contact, gestures like finger-pointing, and vocalizations, such as spoken words. 

The toddler can initiate social interaction. For instance, they can draw their parent’s attention to a toy by pointing at it and gazing at their parent. Both the parent and the child maintain eye contact in this case. 

Older kids may use vocalizations to attract attention. For example, “Hey, Mom, check this out.”

The child may also respond to joint attention initiated by another person. For instance, a parent uses a gesture (finger pointing) toward a toy and says, “Check out the toy!” The toddler reacts by following the parent’s finger to gaze at the toy.

Joint attention plays a crucial role in language development in children. Here’s why it’s important:

Why Is Joint Attention Important?

You find more joy when you share your experiences with another person. The same applies to kids as they experience the sights and sounds of their immediate environment. A child, for example, may respond to a sound by gazing at the source and then looking at you with a smile.

You can also initiate joint attention by pointing at a particular object and looking at the toddler. The child will consequently realize that grownups wish to share attention with them. Such interactions emphasize the back-and-forth activity needed for communication skills.

Kids must repeatedly interact with you first before they can listen to what you’re saying. With time, through consistent listening and responding to your words, they connect meaning to your words and thus grasp what you’re saying.

If your child is experiencing delayed language skills, then there’s a higher chance that they lack consistent interaction. Here is an illustration to show how kids develop speech-language skills via joint attention:

• Interaction reinforces listening.
• Listening contributes to understanding language.
• Language understanding leads to the use of the language itself.
• Using language, including facial expressions, gestures, and eye contact, encourages talking.

That being said, it is crucial to assess joint attention skills in your child early enough and design early interventions in case of deficits.

How Do You Test Joint Attention?

Based on the vital role that joint attention plays in social-language skill development, it is essential to test joint attention skills in children early. The goal is to identify any joint attention challenges and establish early intervention. 

There are structured measures that offer a measurement of joint attention. A typical example is the Early Social Communication Scales (ESCS).

ESCS assesses a child’s reaction to semi-structured prompts. The metrics for the JA behaviors include frequencies or proportions of instances in which tested behaviors are observable. 

The frequency of the experimenter’s solicitation to which the toddler responds is the metric for measuring response to joint attention. For example, you could say, “Look” or point at a toy, and in response, the child turns their head or shifts their eyesight toward your pointed finger.

The metric for initiating joint attention reflects the regularity with which a toddler uses eye contact and finger-pointing to draw attention to ongoing events or objects. A child starts to develop joint attention through eye gazing as early as 4-6 months.

There are several interventions that are available if your child shows signs of joint attention deficit. Read on for more insight.

How Do You Improve Joint Attention?

Face-to-face Interaction

Frequent interaction with your child is one of the best ways to help them develop joint attention. For example, you could get on the ground with them and have face-to-face interaction with eye contact.

Encourage Response to a Solicitation

Point to your kid’s favorite toy and say, “Look,” while pointing at it. Then, gently turn their head to look at the toy. When they make eye contact with the toy, hand it to them to play with it. 

Cause and Effect Games

Get toys they like that feature a cause-and-effect relationship. Wind-up or light-up toys are a good example.

Practice Turn-taking

Play games that include taking turns. For example, passing a ball back and forth.

Bubble Blowing

Blowing bubbles is an activity that allows you to interact with your child. Take a break from blowing to let your kid look at you or request extra bubbles. 

Show Responsiveness

Follow your kid’s lead and take part in their favorite activity.

The Bottom Line

A kid with a joint attention deficit may experience challenges with social skills, language development, and general cognitive development. These difficulties may negatively affect their quality of life. 

Luckily, there are several interventions that can significantly improve or even eliminate joint attention problems in autistic children.

It is common for a person with autism to experience heightened sensitivity to lights, sounds, textures, and smells. 

This article will take a closer look at heightened olfactory sensitivity or a stronger-than-usual sense of smell. We’ll also cover the effects of olfactory sensitivity in children with autism and how you can help them manage these symptoms. 

What is the olfactory system?

The olfactory system is responsible for the sense of smell. This system picks up different smells in the air through the nose and nasal cavity and then sends signals, or information, to your brain. 

Your brain then processes the smells and interprets them based on what it already knows. The brain plays a large role in the workings of the olfactory system. 

Like our other senses, scents are associated with certain memories and emotions we have. We may associate a smell with a certain time in our life or food. It is an individual experience, as these associations are specific to each person. 

Do children with autism have a heightened sense of smell? 

Many studies have been conducted to determine whether children with autism experience a heightened sense of smell or hypersensitivity.

A 2018 study found that people with autism use different areas of the brain to translate scents than neurotypical people.

Because studies have shown that children with autism may have a heightened sense of smell, it follows that they have a heightened olfactory system that regulates those smells.

For some children on the autism spectrum, a foul smell can be detected from longer distances, and the reaction will be avoidance. While others will actively seek out strong smells from people or things they enjoy.

Research is ongoing to better understand hypersensitivity in autistic individuals and how often it occurs.

What effect can a stronger sense of smell have?

Hypersensitivity to smell can impact a person and their ability to function. A child on the autism spectrum may notice scents that you cannot, coupled with impairments in their ability to communicate; hypersensitivity may be expressed through unusual behaviors.

Experiencing the world differently from those around them can prove challenging for a child with autism in their daily lives and social interactions. 

As an adult with autism, a heightened olfactory system can make it hard to function in public spaces, during a commute, or the workplace. 

Children with autism may have challenges in a variety of settings, including:

Difficulty going to restaurants

It can be difficult for children with autism and a heightened sense of smell to go to a restaurant because there are so many different scents in that space. 

From the unfamiliar smells of strangers to the variety of foods and beverages being served, it can be overstimulating for a child with hypersensitivity to smells. 

The type of restaurant, how busy it is, and the environment should all be considered when going to a new restaurant. These factors can impact how the child will react to being in the restaurant.

Overt stimming reactions

Stimming is short for self-stimulating behaviors. Stimming is repetitive or unusual movements or noises, including flapping hands, headbanging, or rocking.

Not exclusive to those on the autism spectrum, stimming is associated with autism. A stim in a neurotypical person may be nail-biting, hair twirling, or shaking your foot. These actions help autistic individuals manage emotions and find comfort when experiencing sensory overload. 

Needing to smell comforting smells to calm down or help attach to a caregiver

Children with autism may need the comforting smells of caregivers or a toy to maintain calm. This can cause limitations in the ways children interact with others, as they crave only specific smells. 

May be distracted by smells unnoticeable to the neurotypical person

Children with autism may be bothered by smells that may not be noticeable to the neurotypical brain. 

Strong unfamiliar odors, perfumes, or cleaning products may cause the hypersensitive child to act out due to sensory overload and lack of communication skills. In a classroom setting, the child with autism may have trouble focusing while their brain is processing smells no one else notices.

For the sensory-seeking child, certain smells may distract them as they seek to get closer to the scent.

May act out or refuse to enter an area with uncomfortable scents

Entering a new space with unfamiliar smells, such as a friend’s home, doctor’s office, shop, or restaurant, may bring an intense reaction in the child with autism. 

He or she may be extremely bothered by the strong-to-them scents and react by stimming (repetitive behavior such as flapping arms), lashing out, or running away. 

How to help a child with a hypersensitive sense of smell?

Hypersensitivity to smell in a child on the autism spectrum makes ordinary, everyday scents into strong, intense ones. Common smells, such as spicy foods, scented shampoos, or gasoline, can overwhelm a child. They may refuse to eat certain foods, avoid certain places, or display unusual behaviors.

Some of the simplest ways to aid the hypersensitive child are using only fragrance-free cleaning products, avoiding scented candles, perfumes, and deodorants, keeping rooms well ventilated and offering a tissue or other face-covering covering the nose. 

For the sensory-seeking child, carry a piece of fabric with a favorite scent and cook flavorful meals.

When you work with your child to help identify the source of their reactions, you can create solutions to help them feel safe and comfortable.

There are some tools and therapies you may want to try with your child:

ABA Therapy

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is a strategy designed to help hypersensitive children increase their communication skills. 

Working with a trained ABA therapist, your child can learn language and communication skills. They may benefit from improved attention, focus, and social skills. ABA therapy helps with memory and academics and can decrease problem behaviors.

ABA therapy is flexible and individualized, with positive reinforcement as one of its core tenets.

Studies on long-term ABA therapy show many positive gains in intellectual functioning, language development, daily living, and social skills.

Sensory Support Tools

Sensory support tools are toys and other items designed to stimulate one or more senses. They appeal to some children on the autism spectrum as they can help the child feel calm and supply the sensory experience they are seeking, which can regulate their sensory needs.

Some support tools to consider are weighted vests or blankets, wiggle cushions, and balance boards. Sensory support toys include fidget spinners, pop-its, and slime or putty.

Be mindful when choosing a sensory toy or tool that doesn’t contain a strong odor from the packaging. 

Social Stories

A social story is a narrative created to help children on the autism spectrum understand how to communicate appropriately in social scenarios. 

Social stories can significantly improve the way children with autism relate to both peers and adults. They can demonstrate and teach what to do (and what not to do) in social situations and when problems arise.

Using social stories, you provide information and structure to help the child with autism navigate social situations.

An example of a social story may be in a comic book format or a series of simple sentences illustrating what the child can expect to happen and why.

Recognizing hypersensitivity in a child with autism is the first step to supporting them in life’s everyday scenarios. 

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) can negatively impact your child’s ability to focus on their personal hygiene.

By the time you’re done with this article, you will know exactly what you need to do to help your autistic son or daughter reach the desired cleanliness and personal hygiene goals.

How does autism affect personal hygiene?

Due to the psychological and sensory challenges that they face, keeping healthy and hygienic is sometimes difficult for autistic individuals.

For a start, several types of mental illnesses, such as depression, can cause your child to neglect self care and cleanliness. This is a common sign of mental health problems among both autistic and neurotypical kids.

However, because of their delicate sensory functions, those with an ASD diagnosis may experience this problem more severely.

Here is how these sensitivities could impact their personal hygiene:

• Your child may not be able to tolerate a strong-smelling soap or shampoo. If this is the case, replace their soap and/or shampoo with a scentless product or one that’s designed for sensitive skin.
• The feeling of running water touching the kid’s skin can feel unpleasant. To address this, consider giving your child a bath instead of a shower.
• The laundry soap or detergent that you’re using could irritate your son or daughter’s skin when they put on their clothes. Buying alternative products may resolve this problem.
• In the same vein, the fabric or textile that their clothing is made out of might be uncomfortable. When this happens, you should try to find clothes with materials that your child can tolerate wearing.

Even though every autistic kid has unique mental and sensory functions, establishing daily routines is one of the best ways for teaching children with ASD how to take care of their personal hygiene.  

What kind of hygienic activities do autistic children need to learn?

Autistic kids tend to respond well to structures and routines. With that in mind, you may want to establish a consistent daily schedule that includes cleaning and self care.

This is a very effective method for teaching an autistic boy or girl about the hygienic activities and habits that they need to maintain. Splitting these tasks into morning and evening ones can make this strategy more successful.

Hygienic Morning Routine

Here are some of the hygienic activities that should be part of your child’s morning routine:

1. Wake up and make the bed
2. Go to the bathroom for a shower or bath
3. Use the towel for drying the hair and body
4. Put on a bathrobe or pajamas, and then the slippers
5. Brush their teeth
6. Comb their hair
7. Go to the dining room for breakfast
8. Put away the dishes after eating
9. Get dressed, starting with the shirt, then the pants, and, finally, the socks
10. Put on the shoes before leaving the house

When you put this routine together, you want to ensure that these tasks are done in a specific order. A consistent daily ritual makes it easier for your autistic son or daughter to remember these activities and when they need to do them.

Hygienic Evening Routine

Similarly, here is a potential hygienic evening routine that your child could follow:

1. Wash the hands before dinner
2. Have dinner and then put the dishes away
3. Go to the bathroom to wash the hands and mouth
4. Wash the face
5. Brush and floss
6. Comb the hair
7. Go to the bedroom to change
8. Get undressed, starting with the shirt, then the pants, and, afterwards, the socks
9. Place the dirty clothing in the laundry basket
10. Put on pajamas, beginning with either the shirt or pants

Regardless of which activities are done first, the most important thing is to follow the same order on a consistent basis.

Moreover, there are certain teaching methods that you could use to help your son or daughter with their morning and evening routines.

Teaching Your Autistic Child Proper Hygiene

Modeling

Simply put, modeling entails mimicking your child’s hygienic activities as they complete them.

For example, while your kid is washing their hands or brushing their teeth, stand next to them and copy their motions as if you’re doing the same thing.

Use Rewards

Rewards will give your autistic child the incentive to take care of their cleanliness.

For example, when they brush their teeth in the morning on their own and without being asked to do so, you could promise to give them their favorite snack or candy after dinner.

Over time, brushing their teeth in the morning will become a subconscious habit, and your son or daughter eventually begins to do it without expecting a reward.

Use Social Stories or Videos

Narrating a story about a character’s hygienic habits offers your child a practical example that they can copy. Using videos for this purpose is an even better tactic. 

Use Visual Checklists

Write down your son or daughter’s morning and evening tasks on a whiteboard or piece of paper that you could hang up on their bedroom or bathroom wall. This will help them remember these activities.

Add a check mark next to each task or cross them out whenever your boy or girl completes them. When they finish all the activities that are on the list, give them a reward.

On that note, you may want to consider getting the advice of a professional therapist on how and when you should reward your autistic child.

How ABA Therapy Can Help

Applied behavior analysis (ABA) therapy is arguably the most proven and effective approach for managing ASD symptoms.

At Hidden Talents ABA, a team of licensed and highly-trained experts will work with your kid and give a custom treatment plan based on their specific sensitivities, sensory issues, and needs.

By identifying and eliminating the smells, textures, lights, and other environmental factors that make your son or daughter uncomfortable, our ABA therapists will guide them towards attaining their personal hygiene goals and beyond.

Click here to contact us and get started!

Autism is a complex and often misunderstood disorder. In this post, you’ll learn what autism is, as well as the causes and risk factors. We’ll also cover the signs to look for in your child, and why early intervention is important.

What is autism?

Autism, or autism spectrum disorder (ASD), is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects how a person learns, communicates, and interacts with others. 

Autism is a spectrum disorder, and those on the spectrum will each have their own unique strengths and challenges. The way autism affects a person’s ability to learn, perceive the world, and interact with others, can range from above average to severely low functioning.

Some people with ASD will need support in all areas of their daily lives, while others can live independently. Other challenges may include sensory sensitivities, sleep disorders, mental health challenges, and gastrointestinal disorders.

Reported by the Centers for Disease Control in 2021, approximately 1 in 44 children in the United States is diagnosed with autism.

Autism affects almost 4 times as many boys as girls. Almost half of all people with ASD are nonverbal (40%), while 31% of autistic children are intellectually disabled.

Previously considered different autism diagnoses, these four – autistic disorder, childhood disintegrative disorder, pervasive developmental disorder-not otherwise specified (PDD-NOS) and Asperger syndrome – are now all considered part of autism spectrum disorder. 

ASD is considered to be wide-spectrum, meaning that no two individuals with autism will demonstrate the same symptoms. Further, the signs and behaviors associated with autism may fluctuate. 

There is no cure for autism, and early intervention provides the most benefits to a child’s health and development.

What are some of the indicators of autism in a child?

Parents may notice signs of autism in the years before a child’s third birthday. Though these indicators often progress slowly, some autistic children experience regression around their communication and social skills even after reaching developmental milestones on time.

Many children show signs of autism within the first year, and it’s important to know what to look for. Professional evaluation is important, so be sure to visit with your child’s healthcare providers regularly.

The signs of autism will vary from child to child, but may include:

• loss of communication skills shown earlier
• repetitive actions such as spinning, or flapping of arms
• avoiding affection
• language development delays
• lack of eye contact or facial expression
• intense reaction to sound, smell, taste, or light
• preference for playing alone

Remember, not all children or adults with autism will display the same symptoms. 

At regular appointments in the first three years, your child’s healthcare providers will screen for signs of autism, and ask about your family’s medical history.

While there is no one cause of autism, we know that genetics do play a role. 

Is autism genetic?

Due to its complex nature, and the myriad of symptoms, autism spectrum disorder likely has many causes. Researchers have determined that both genetics and environment likely play a role.

Geneticists believe several different genes are involved in autism spectrum disorder. Genetic factors are estimated to contribute up to 80% to the risk of developing autism. 

The risk from gene mutations, in addition to environmental risk factors, determine the likelihood of a child developing autism spectrum disorder.

In some children, autism is diagnosed in addition to other genetic disorders, such as fragile X syndrome or Rett syndrome.

Scientists theorize some genetic mutations seem to be inherited, while others occur spontaneously.

Autism spectrum disorder remains a complicated area of research. For now, researchers believe that autism appears to develop from both genetic and environmental factors and certain risk factors have been uncovered.

Increased risks that your child will have autism

Researchers continue to study the causes and risk factors for autism, but as of now, there remains no one cause for autism. 

There are some risk factors that appear involved, however. These may include:

• premature birth before 26 weeks
• advanced age of either parent
• low birth weight
• other disorders such as fragile X syndrome or Rett syndrome
• pregnancies spaced less than a year apart
• heavy metal and environmental toxin exposure
• poor nutrition and lack of folic acid during pregnancy
• diabetes, obesity or preeclampsia during pregnancy
• family history of autism

As discussed above, autism does tend to run in families. Parents who have a child with ASD have a 2 to 18% chance that their second child will also have ASD. Identical twins have at least a 35% chance that both will be diagnosed with autism.

Some research shows no correlation between vaccines and autism.

Research into autism and brain biology is ongoing. Research teams are working to develop treatments and understand the ways to improve quality of life for a person with autism.

The earlier autism is diagnosed, the better it is for the child. To that end, research into prenatal detection is being done.

Can autism be detected during pregnancy? 

As no single cause for autism has yet been determined, it is difficult to screen for the disorder during pregnancy.

Researchers are working to create a reliable way of testing for indicators of autism in a developing fetus.

In February 2022, a new study by Ben-Gurion University of the Negev and Soroka Medical Center has found that a prenatal ultrasound in the second trimester can identify early signs of autism spectrum disorder.

Researchers from the Azrieli National Centre for Autism and Neurodevelopment Research concluded that a routine ultrasound could detect autism. 

In the study, 30% of infants who had anomalies in the heart, kidneys, and head developed ASD at a rate three times higher than infants without these complications. Further research studies are needed to understand how to diagnose autism during pregnancy. 

There is evidence pointing to genetic and environmental factors while in utero that can influence autism. And yet there is minimal data on abnormalities in fetuses who later grow into children with autism.

“Prenatal ultrasound is an excellent tool to study abnormal fetal development as it is frequently used to monitor fetal growth and identify fetal anomalies throughout pregnancy,” the researchers commented. 

A previous study of the Centre found early diagnosis and treatment for autism increased social skills in children by three times as much. Prenatal diagnosis could mean a course of treatment could begin at birth rather than years later.

If you believe your child may have autism, speak with your child’s healthcare provider right away. Autism can be diagnosed as early as age two, and there are many benefits to early intervention for your child. 

Worried that your child with autism may be nonverbal? Perhaps you’re wondering if they can ever learn how to speak.

Either way, you’re in the right place. After you read this article, you will know what nonverbal autism is, its early signs, and how you can help your child get comfortable with talking.

What is nonverbal autism?

If your son or daughter was diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and they haven’t spoken their first words by the time they turned 4 years old, they are considered to have nonverbal autism.

To put it another way, children with nonverbal autism don’t use verbs or words when they interact with others.

Some of them will make sounds or noises (instead of speaking) to communicate what they think or how they feel.

Since a few of the symptoms of nonverbal autism are similar to the signs that accompany other physical problems, you want to take your child to the doctor to make sure that they don’t have any serious or major medical conditions.

At the appointment, the doctor may conduct blood tests and physical and imaging exams before they give you a diagnosis.

Keep in mind that nonverbal autism is somewhat common.

What percentage of autism is nonverbal?

In the past, it was believed that about 40% of autistic children were nonverbal. However, according to a 2013 study of nonverbal autism, the figure is now closer to 25%.

This is because the autism diagnosis criteria has expanded in recent years to include those with mild forms of ASD.

Additionally, new and advanced treatment methods are allowing children to get diagnosed with nonverbal autism at an early stage. In turn, they can address their symptoms and begin to learn how to speak while they’re still very young.

Signs That Your Child Will Be Nonverbal

Your son or daughter may be nonverbal if they display the following autism spectrum disorder communication problems as a baby or toddler:

• Avoiding eye contact
• Not knowing how to gesture, wave, or communicate in other non-verbal ways
• Ignoring nearby sounds or their name being called
• Not mumbling or making noises as a baby
• Failing to use body language to express themselves

If your child shows any of these symptoms, you need to remember that the quicker you get them treated, the sooner that they will learn how to speak.

After all, a study revealed that 47% of boys and girls that had nonverbal autism language delays when they were 4 years old went on to be fluent speakers.

Moreover, 70% of them were eventually capable of using short phrases and sentences.

How can a nonverbal child learn to communicate?

There are various scientifically-proven ways to help your child with nonverbal autism speak and communicate.

Here are some of the most noteworthy ones:

Encourage Play and Social Interaction

When your child is encouraged to play games that they enjoy and interact with others, they will get more comfortable with communicating, even if they do so non verbally.

Over time, this makes it easier for them to start using their words and orally express themselves.

Simplify Your Language

Complex words and long sentences are difficult to imitate. Instead, say simple words and phrases when you speak to them.

Once your son or daughter starts to mimic you, you can move on to longer words and sentences.

Imitate Them

When you playfully copy the sounds and noises that your boy or girl is making, you are encouraging them to start mimicking the words and phrases that you say.

Use Assistive Technologies and Visual Supports

There are certain apps that are designed to teach children words when they press on a visual or image. For example, if your nonverbal kid touches a picture of an apple on the device’s screen, they will hear the word “apple”.

Alternatively, you may have your child use physical pictures to express what they think and how they feel.

ABA Therapy

Applied behavior analysis (ABA) therapy is currently the most prevalent therapeutic approach for autism symptoms, in general.

When you take your nonverbal boy or girl to see an ABA therapist, this is what you can expect:

1. The therapist evaluates your child’s condition, development, and communication skills.
2. They identify the problematic environmental and sensory triggers that your kid is struggling with. For example, your child may have difficulty communicating when the TV volume is turned up or a family member talks loudly.
3. The therapist eliminates these triggers and puts together a treatment plan for teaching your son or daughter how to speak.

If ABA therapy seems like a suitable option for you and your child, you can rely on the experts at Hidden Talents ABA to provide you with all that you need and more.

Our trained and licensed therapists specialize in working with children with ASD on overcoming different types of difficulties and challenges.

Above all, we accept insurance plans from a wide range of carriers, and we work with Medicaid patients, too!

With Hidden Talents ABA’s expert care and guidance, not only will your nonverbal kid learn how to communicate and talk, but your child can achieve more than what you thought was possible.

Identifying the signs of autism in children is an ongoing effort because young kids tend to rapidly grow and acquire new skills between the time that they’re born and their 3rd birthdays.

However, after you’re done reading this article, you will know how to spot and address the signs of autism in children at different stages of their early lives.

Signs of Autism in Children Under a Year

Kids that are younger than one year of age could show autism spectrum disorder (ASD) symptoms by the time they turn 3 and 7 months old, respectively.

Since kids develop and grow quickly throughout their first year, they will experience different autism symptoms during each of those two life stages.

To clarify, here are the behaviors that may predict ASD among infants and toddlers by age:

Autism Signs By 3 Months

The following ASD symptoms typically appear between the time that a child is born and up until they turn 3 months:

• The boy or girl doesn’t smile back at others.
• They can’t maintain eye contact and avoid looking at people’s faces when they’re spoken to.
• The kid fails to respond to sounds or noises.
• When objects or toys are dangled in front of the boy or girl, they don’t follow them with their eyes, try to grab them, or show any interest in them. This is especially the case when it comes to brightly-colored toys since autistic children are sensitive to bright lights.
• The toddler doesn’t babble or try to pronounce words. Some kids with ASD babble when they’re a few weeks old, but begin to gradually stop doing so as they get closer to being 3 months old.

From there, many autistic infants could go on to develop other symptoms between the ages of 3 and 7 months.

Autism Signs By 7 Months

These signs and symptoms may indicate that your 7-months-old son or daughter has ASD:

• They don’t show any interest in socializing or playing games, such as Peek-A-Boo.
• Instead of grabbing objects or being interested in playing with the mirror, they become obsessed with specific and unusual things like fans and patterns on the floor or ceiling.
• The kid doesn’t respond to the word “no”.
• The child continues to avoid blabbering or attempting to speak.
• They also don’t respond when you call their name. This issue can be particularly concerning if it persists after they turn 9 months old.

Signs of Autism in Children Over a Year

During their second year, you may want to keep an eye on potential autism symptoms and red flags that usually appear when a child reaches 12 and 18 months of age, respectively.

Here the autism signs that your son or daughter might experience at each of these stages:

At 12 Months

• They don’t know how to ask for or point at a toy that they want to play with or grab.
• Instead of imitating people or noises, they become sensitive to sounds and/or uninterested in getting others’ attention.
• The girl or boy doesn’t make simple gestures, including waving goodbye or nodding their head when they say “yes” or “no”.
• Continues to avoid babbling or attempting to pronounce words.

At 18 Months

• The child still hasn’t spoken their first words.
• They avoid pointing at toys and objects that they are curious about.
• The kid is extra sensitive around noises and loud voices.
• If they already know how to speak, your boy or girl may start to lose their language skills when they turn 18 months old. However, this problem might not appear until their second birthday.

Signs of Autism in Children That are 2 Years Old

If your child has ASD, most of their symptoms will be identifiable by or before the time they turn 2 years old.

The following are the main ones:

• They can’t use their words or speak. Keep in mind that many 2-year-old children already know how to use sentences or say multiple words. 
• Instead of socializing or playing “pretend”, the kid prefers to be alone and avoids trying to find common interests with other children.
• When they imitate or mimic those around them, they do so in a repetitive and obsessive way.
• The boy or girl continues to avoid socializing, communicating with adults, and playing with children.

Since your son or daughter’s ASD symptoms will be obvious by this point in their lives, you need to watch out for any regressions in their existing social, behavioral, and sensory skills.

In fact, even if your 2-year-old kid doesn’t display any autism signs, you may still want to keep an eye on any potential symptoms of regressive autism. This condition only develops after a child’s second birthday.

Regression

Unlike those with early-onset autism, children with regressive ASD experience almost no signs until they turn 2 to 3 years old. After that, they start to lose some of their capabilities and skills and stop learning new ones.

Here are the most commonplace symptoms and early developmental patterns of regressive autism:

• Your boy or girl begins to struggle when they want to pronounce words that they were previously comfortable with.
• You may notice that your son or daughter is no longer gesturing, maintaining eye contact, or using their nonverbal skills.
• The child gradually loses interest in engaging with others, and they revert to watching TV or playing with their toys on their own.

If you suspect that your kid has regressive autism, they can be diagnosed in the same way as those that have early-onset ASD.

The most effective way to identify and diagnose both regressive and early-onset autism is by having the child get tested at a young age and throughout their first few years in life.

Testing for Autism

Autism screening and testing generally falls under two categories: Developmental screening and a comprehensive behavioral evaluation.

Developmental Screening

Developmental screening entails regularly-scheduled and ongoing visits to the doctor. During each appointment, the doctor will ask you (the parent) and your son or daughter certain questions about the child’s development.

Additionally, the doctor might talk to or play with your kid to determine if they have any academic, behavioral, cognitive, and/or sensory issues.

Developmental screening starts before your child is 6 months old, and appointments are recommended when they are 9, 18, 24, and 36 months of age.

The goal of these visits is to either rule out ASD symptoms or, alternatively, undergo further testing if the doctor identifies potential signs of autism.

Comprehensive Behavioral Evaluation

First of all, the doctor who oversees the evaluation may conduct one or more of the following tests:

• A visual and verbal assessment of the boy or girl’s developmental patterns and behaviors.
• An interview with the parents.
• Genetic testing.
• Hearing and vision screenings.
• Neurological testing.
• Other medical exams and evaluations.

Next, if they spot any concerns, the doctor will refer you and your child to a specialist who can perform more tests.

For example, they may want you to see a neurologist, children’s psychologist/psychiatrist, and/or developmental pediatrician who is formally trained to work with kids that have special needs.

Identifying the Signs of Autism in Children

As mentioned earlier, screening your child for ASD is an ongoing effort, especially throughout the initial 3 years of their lives.

Taking your child to the doctor for assessments at the appropriate time frames is a great way to diagnose and manage autism at an early stage.

Equally as important, consider using the information that we covered in this article as a preliminary guide on how to spot ASD signs at home and know when it’s time to take your son or daughter to the doctor for a checkup.

Medicaid is a government health insurance program that helps low-income individuals and families pay for medical care. Many people with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) qualify for Medicaid services, including ABA therapy.

In this article, we will explore the requirements for qualifying for ABA therapy under Texas’s Medicaid program.

But first let’s get a better understanding about ABA therapy.

What is ABA therapy?

ABA therapy is a type of behavior therapy that uses positive reinforcement to encourage desired behaviors and discourage undesired behaviors.

ABA therapy has been shown to be an effective treatment for ASD, providing significant improvements in social, communication, and behavioral skills.

ABA therapy is usually provided by a therapist in a one-on-one setting, and can be adapted to meet the unique needs of each individual with ASD.

Does Medicaid cover ABA therapy in Texas?

Historically ABA therapy was not covered under Texas Medicaid; however, in 2019, the Texas Legislature passed a bill that requires Medicaid to cover ABA therapy for children with ASD. Due to COVID-19, coverage for ABA therapy was delayed until its implementation in February 2022.

Now, over 50,000 children with ASD in Texas will have access to this life-changing therapy.

Now that we know that Medicaid covers ABA therapy in Texas, let’s look at the requirements to qualify for coverage.

How can my child qualify for ABA therapy under Texas Medicaid?

In order to qualify for ABA therapy under Texas Medicaid, your child must meet the following criteria:

• Your child must have been diagnosed with ASD within the past 3 years.
• Your child must be under 21 years old.
• You will need to have a current prescription for ABA therapy from a licensed physician or other healthcare professional.

If you think your child may qualify for ABA therapy under Texas Medicaid, the best way to find out is to contact your local Medicaid office. A caseworker will be able to help you determine if your child qualifies and what steps you need to take next.

How can Hidden Talents help with ABA therapy?

At Hidden Talents, we are passionate about helping children with ASD reach their full potential.

Our team of highly trained and experienced therapists provide individualized ABA therapy that is tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual.

If you would like to learn more about our ABA therapy services, or if you have any other questions, please contact us today. We would be happy to answer any of your questions and help your child get started on their journey to discover their hidden talents.

A letter of medical necessity is a document that is used to justify the need for certain treatments or services. It can be used to get insurance coverage for services like ABA therapy, or to prove to a school that a child needs special education services.

In this article, we will discuss how to write a letter of medical necessity for ABA therapy to send to an insurance provider, and what to include in it. We will also provide a sample letter of medical necessity.

How do you write a letter of medical necessity for ABA therapy?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the letter will be tailored to the specific needs of the individual. However, there are some general things that should be included in any letter of medical necessity for ABA therapy.

Some key points include:

State the nature of the illness

The letter should state that the individual has been diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (or another condition that warrants ABA therapy).

Outline the treatment plan

The letter should list the specific goals of ABA therapy that will be addressed, and how they will benefit the individual.

Duration of treatment

The letter should state how long the treatment plan is expected to last.

Summary of letter

The letter should provide a brief overview of the main points that have been discussed.

Some other key aspects for a letter of medical necessity include:

• The letter should be on letterhead from a licensed health care professional such as a doctor.
• The letter should include contact information for the doctor.
• The letter should have a professional tone.

Sample letter of medical necessity for ABA therapy

Here is an example letter of medical necessity for ABA therapy:

To whom it may concern:

I am writing this letter on behalf of my patient, (Patient Name), to document the necessity of ABA therapy treatment. This letter offers information about their medical history, diagnosis, and an explanation for the necessity of treatment.

(Patient Name) has been diagnosed with ASD and currently exhibits symptoms that warrant ABA therapy. The most appropriate treatment here will be operant conditioning and positive reinforcement, which will help to program desired actions.

The rationale behind this treatment is that it’s totally safe. It is simply a positive reinforcement approach. It is just a method of rewarding patients for acting in a manner that is natural to them.

The patient will be left to engage in desirable behavior or else reinforcement incentives will be withheld unless there is a behavioral shift. This is about giving rewards or praise as the need arises.

The treatment plan will last for a total of 36 weeks, and will be supervised by myself or one of my associates. This will be repeated as necessary.

In summary, ABA therapy is a necessary and safe treatment for (Patient Name) that will address their specific needs. I urge you to approve this request and provide the coverage needed for ABA therapy. Please contact me if you have any questions.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely,

(your doctor’s name)

How Hidden Talents can help you

At Hidden Talents, we believe that ABA is the key to helping children on the autism spectrum succeed. Combined with the expert care and guidance of our trained BCBAs, your child can achieve more than you thought possible.

We currently offer ABA therapy services in Houston and Atlanta.

Reach out to us to learn more about how we can help.

If you are the parent of a child with autism, then you know that ABA therapy is essential for their development. ABA therapy can help children learn important skills and improve their quality of life.

But what happens if you can’t afford to pay for this therapy yourself? In this article, we will answer some common questions about insurance coverage for ABA therapy in Texas.

Give us a call if you want to work with the best ABA therapy provider in Houston. 

Is ABA therapy covered by insurance in Texas?

Texas law requires most insurance companies to provide coverage for autism treatment.

However, insurance companies are not required to cover the full cost of treatment. There are loopholes which enable certain companies to opt out or reduce insurance coverage for ABA therapy as a child gets older.

It is important to speak with your company’s human resources department to find out the details of the coverage your insurance offers for ABA therapy, and check if the plan is fully funded or self-funded.

If the plan is self-funded, ask if you have ABA therapy coverage. It is important to ask about information specifically on autism coverage; you might have to be in touch with the plan administrator and ask them about benefits for ABA therapy for children with autism.

Does Medicaid cover ABA therapy in Texas?

After a hard battle, Medicaid now covers ABA therapy for children with autism in Texas.

Beneficiaries must satisfy the conditions established in the Autism Services benefit description, and the treatment must be deemed medically required. Beneficiaries may obtain further information from their Medicaid insurance plan’s benefits representative as it becomes available.

Are there any caps on insurance coverage for ABA therapy?

In Texas, a law passed in 2013 which eliminated the previous age limit on insurance coverage for autism treatment (it was previously 10 years old). Currently, there is no limit.

However, plans can restrict ABA therapy reimbursement to $36,000 per year for children over 10 years old. Furthermore, to be eligible for coverage, a child must be diagnosed before age 10.

Some insurance plans also attempt to reduce coverage for ABA therapy as children ages. Insurers have their own standards for approving benefits for ABA therapy and do not always adhere to clinical recommendations.

Even though there is no formal cap on coverage for plans until age 10, obtaining insurance authorization for intensive ABA therapy can be more difficult as children get older.

Exceptions from insurance coverage in Texas

State of Origin

Check with your insurance provider to find out where your health insurance plan is based.

Some businesses, particularly those that operate in multiple states, may provide their employees with an insurance plan from a different state. Requirements and laws on ABA therapy insurance coverage differ from state to state.

Some states have limits on the amount of coverage, age caps, and other rules that might affect your child’s insurance.

Insurance plans are governed by the state law where the plan is issued, not the beneficiary’s location. So even if you live in Texas, Texas laws may not apply to your insurance plan.

Realizing that your plan is administered out of state is easy when it’s named something like “XYZ Insurance of Illinois.” Others may not be as recognizable.

If your plan is issued outside of the state, contact your human resources department or insurance provider to learn about rules and regulations in that state regarding covered autism therapies. Make sure you inquire about any restrictions or exclusions in ABA therapy insurance coverage.

Fully funded or self-funded?

Be sure to check if your company’s insurance plan is self-funded or fully funded. The Texas law only applies to fully funded (large and small) plans, not self-funded ones.

Options for families without employer ABA coverage

Consider these alternatives for obtaining an individual ABA therapy insurance plan if your family doesn’t have insurance through your employer:

Through the Affordable Care Act marketplace

In North Texas, there are two distinct insurance coverage plans accessible through the ACA (Affordable Care Act) marketplace. Some families may be eligible for tax credits for plans bought through the ACA marketplace, depending on their income.

Marketplace options are only accessible during open enrollment, which happens once a year (usually from November 15th to December 15th) or when a particular event occurs, such as a job loss or loss of insurance coverage from an employer. You can check out what plans are available on the marketplace by visiting healthcare.gov.

Individual plans can be purchased through a broker

There are also other kinds of individual insurance plans for ABA therapy available for children with autism. These alternatives may not be the same as those available through the Affordable Care Act insurance marketplace, and they do not qualify for the same tax credits.

There are brokers in the DFW area who are very experienced in finding insurance coverage for children with autism through ABA therapy.

How do I apply for ABA therapy?

To apply for ABA therapy, you will need to contact your insurance company and request an authorization for ABA therapy benefits. The insurance company will likely require a diagnosis and letter of medical necessity from a licensed psychologist or psychiatrist in order to process the authorization.

How can Hidden Talents help with ABA therapy?

Our focus is to help children grow and thrive by improving communication, social and adaptive skills. Hidden Talents ABA specializes in services for children from birth to age 12.

Our experienced team of BCBAs develops programs to fit each child’s specific needs. The dedication of our clinicians and our comprehensive, collaborative approach will allow our clients to truly shine and succeed.

It can be difficult to shop with an autistic child.

They may have trouble understanding what is happening around them, they may become overwhelmed by the noise and crowds, or they may have a meltdown in the middle of the store.

Here are some tips to help make shopping with your autistic child easier and ways to create a more autism-friendly shopping experience.

Why is it Difficult to Shop with an Autistic Child?

Autistic children don’t see shopping the same as their neurotypical peers. Some difficulties they face include:

Sensory processing disorder

For many autistic children, bright lights, loud noises, and strong smells can be overwhelming. A lot is happening around them which can make shopping a difficult and even painful experience.

Crowds and long lines

Large crowds of people can be overwhelming for anyone, but for an autistic child, it can cause a lot of anxiety.

Crowds also create noise which can be difficult for an autistic child to filter out.

Change in routine

Shopping is a deviation from the normal routine which can be difficult for an autistic child to handle. They may become agitated or have a meltdown because of the change in schedule.

Meltdowns

Meltdowns are a common occurrence for autistic children. They may happen when an autistic child is overwhelmed, frustrated, or tired. Meltdowns can look different for every child but may include crying, yelling, hitting, or self-injurious behaviors.

Anxiety

Many autistic children experience high levels of anxiety. This may be due to the sensory overload they feel or from knowing that a meltdown is possible. Anxiety can make shopping an even more difficult experience.

Tips for Shopping with an Autistic Child

By understanding what is difficult for your child during a shopping trip, you can be better prepared to handle any challenges that may come up.

Here are some tips to make shopping with an autistic child easier:

Prepare your Child for the Change in Schedule

The day before the shopping trip , tell your child about your plans. Explain that they will be going shopping and tell them what time you will leave. This will help your child prepare for the change in routine.

Make a Plan with your Child

Before you leave for the store, sit down with your child and explain what will happen. Use words and pictures to help them understand the steps of the trip. This will help reduce anxiety and make the trip more predictable.

Include what will happen once you get home by creating a social story.

For example, say we will get into the car, drive to the store and park in the lot. Once we enter the store we will choose a wagon, collect all of the items on our list and head to the checkout line. Once we pay for the items we will bag them and place them in the car. Once we drive home, we will undo and put away the items and then play a game of your choice.

Applied Pressure Techniques

Applied pressure techniques can help an autistic child with sensory processing disorder. Things like weighted blankets, vests, or stuffed animals can provide deep pressure input which can help calm the nervous system.

Bring along a fidget toy

If your child becomes overwhelmed, having something they love to focus on can help calm them down.

Fidget toys can be a helpful distraction for an autistic child. They may help them focus and stay calm while shopping

Reward them for Good Behavior

If your child does well on the shopping trip, be sure to reward them. This could be a favorite food, toy, or activity.

Rewarding good behavior will help encourage your child to continue following the rules while shopping.

Keep Trips Short

Autistic children can become overwhelmed easily, so it is best to keep trips short. This will help reduce the chances of a meltdown occurring.

Start with two or three items. If you have to make a larger purchase, break it up into multiple trips.

This will help your child stay calm and avoid becoming overwhelmed.

To conclude

Shopping with an autistic child can be a difficult and frustrating experience. However, by following these tips, you can make the trip more manageable for both you and your child. Remember to be patient and understanding, and most importantly, have fun!

Among the main challenges that children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and their families face are meltdowns and outbursts.

These problems could cause physical, verbal, and emotional damage, but that doesn’t mean that you can’t control them.

In fact, this article was written to help you understand what outbursts and meltdowns are, their common signs, how you should handle them when they occur, and what you need to do to prevent them from happening, in the first place.

What is a meltdown/outburst?

When autistic children find themselves in a stressful or overwhelming situation, they may become unable to regulate themselves and their sentiments. A meltdown or outburst is an intense response to these feelings.

To clarify, meltdowns and outbursts aren’t necessarily bad habits. Instead, they are merely ways for children with autism to express themselves when they don’t know how to do so in other ways.

What do outbursts look like?

After losing control of their emotions, your autistic son or daughter may have a verbal or physical outburst (or both).

Here are the characteristics of each:

• Physical Outbursts: Your child might engage in biting, hitting, kicking, and other physically-aggressive actions.
• Verbal Outbursts: Similarly, your kid could cry, scream, and/or shout.

Since meltdowns and outbursts can cause bodily, material, and emotional harms, you should keep an eye on their main signals and indicators. This allows you to prevent a meltdown before it happens.

Signs of an Outburst

Most of the time, an autistic child’s behavior will give you cues that they’re distressed and about to experience a meltdown.

The following outburst signs are common:

• Anxiety
• Asking repetitive questions as a way to get reassurances
• Pacing
• Rocking
• Staying very still

Once you identify these symptoms, you need to intervene and prevent the meltdown from happening.

What to Do When Your Autistic Child Is Having an Outburst

There are two aspects that you should focus on when addressing your son or daughter’s potential outburst.

Firstly, after you spot the main signs, you must manage them by doing the following:

• Ask if They’re Okay: A simple question like “are you okay?” could provide you with plenty of answers. However, keep in mind that some autistic kids might need time to give a response. 
• Give Them Space: This entails physical and mental space. For example, you may want to take your kid to a quiet and safe area that they’re comfortable with. In the same vein, turning down the music and/or lights can psychologically calm the child down.
• Give Them Time: Whenever your son or daughter suffers from a sensory or information-related overload, you should give them enough time to recover and recuperate.

Secondly (and equally as important) is knowing what the triggers of an outburst or meltdown are so that you can eliminate them and prevent one from happening. Here are a few prevalent triggers:

A Change in The Child’s Routine

It is very easy for autistic children to feel unsettled when they have to follow a schedule that they’re unfamiliar with.

Therefore, you may want to gradually make changes to their routine while keeping a close eye on their symptoms as you do so.

Communication Difficulties

Simply put, many kids with ASD have a hard time when they communicate with others and are likely to be misunderstood.

By working with your son or daughter on their communication skills and identifying the signs that they’re struggling to express themselves, you can cater to their needs and stop an impending meltdown in its tracks. 

Sensory Challenges

The brains of autistic kids are wired differently than their neurotypical counterparts. As a result, they may run into issues that impact their senses and the way that their body responds to sounds, lights, and other aspects in their environment.

This means that intense senses, such as loud noises and bright lights, might trigger an outburst or meltdown.

As a parent, you want to know what your child’s sensory triggers are in order to minimize their effect on their conduct.

At the end of the day, you should always remember that autism outbursts aren’t bad behaviors in of themselves. Instead, they are verbal and physical actions that your child may engage in when they don’t know how to express themselves.

By identifying and managing an outburst’s signs, alongside eliminating its triggers, you can effectively prevent future meltdowns from occurring and help your autistic son or daughter communicate in a calmer and better manner.

If your autistic child is struggling with anxiety then you are reading the right article. 

Anxiety can be mild or severe and it is very common in autistic children to struggle with it.

In this article, we will explain what anxiety is, list some of its common symptoms, and explore the reasons why autistic children struggle with it.

We will also discuss some treatment options to give you some actionable tips for stopping your child’s anxious episode.

What is anxiety?

So, what is anxiety? According to the American Psychological Association, anxiety is an emotion characterized by feelings of tension, worried thoughts and physical changes like increased blood pressure.

Anxiety disorders are one of the most common mental health issues in the world affecting over 40 million adults in the United States alone.

Autistic children often struggle with anxiety. In fact, recent studies have suggested that 40-80% of autistic children will experience an anxiety induced episode.

Signs of Anxiety

So what are the signs that your child is struggling with anxiety?

According to the Mayo Clinic, common symptoms of anxiety include:

• Restlessness: Constant moving, pacing and fidgeting.
• Feeling on edge: A sense of feeling like something bad is going to happen and that it could happen at any time.
• Irritability: Your child may get angry easily,
• Muscle tension: You may notice your child clenching their hands or jaw.
• Difficulty concentrating: Your child may have a hard time focusing on anything or completing tasks.
• Insomnia: Difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep.
• Eating problems: Your child may not eat enough or they may overeat.
• Panic attacks: Sudden feelings of terror, shortness of breath, chest pain and dizziness.

• Avoidance of everyday activities: Avoiding school, work and social situations out of worry and fear

If you notice your child struggling with these symptoms, it may be time to contact a therapist or doctor.

Why do autistic children struggle with anxiety?

There are many reasons why autistic children struggle with anxiety.

Some of the most common include:

Lack of social skills

 Autistic children may not know how to interact with others which can lead to feelings of isolation and loneliness. This can also cause them to feel anxious about upcoming events where they will have to socialize.

Sensory overload

Autistic children often struggle with sensory overload. This is when they are overwhelmed by too much noise, light, or touch. This can cause them to become anxious and agitated.

Unpredictability

Autistic children thrive on routine and order. When things change or are unpredictable it can cause them to feel anxious and afraid.

Bullying: Autistic children are often targeted by bullies because of their differences. This can lead to a lot of emotional distress and anxiety.

Treatment options for anxiety in autistic children

So what are the treatment options for anxiety in autistic children?

There is no one size fits all answer to this question because different things work for different people.

However, there are some common treatment options that can help your child reduce their feelings of anxiety. These include:

• Behavioral therapy: With behavioral therapy,your therapist will teach you and your child techniques to manage stress and anxiety in everyday life.
• Cognitive-behavioral therapy: This type of therapy helps your child to change the negative thoughts and beliefs that contribute to their anxiety.
• Medication: If your child’s anxiety is severe, medication may be necessary. There are a variety of medications that can help treat anxiety including antidepressants and anti-anxiety drugs.
• Talk therapy: In talk therapy, your therapist will help your child explore and understand their thoughts and feelings about anxiety.
• Support groups: Joining a support group can be helpful for both you and your child. This is a place where they can share their experiences with others who are going through the same thing.
• ABA therapy: ABA or Applied Behavioral Analysis therapy is a type of therapy that helps your child with communication and learning skills and can help modify anxious behaviors.
• Relaxation techniques: Teaching your child relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, yoga, tai chi and mindfulness can help them to calm down when they feel anxious.

Tips for helping your autistic child during an anxious episode

So how can you help your child during an anxious episode?

The most important thing is to stay calm. When you notice them becoming upset, try to be reassuring and encouraging. You may want to hold their hand or give them a hug depending on their sensory needs. Try not to force anything on them that they don’t want during their anxiety attack. 

It can also be helpful to have a plan in place for when your child has an anxious episode. This may include having a safe place for them to go to, an electronic device to distract them, and other calming activities such as deep breathing exercises or listening to music.

Conclusion

Anxiety is a common problem for autistic children, but there are things you can do to help. From therapy to medication to relaxation techniques, there are many options available to help your child manage their anxiety.

Remember to stay calm and be supportive during an anxious episode, and have a plan in place so you know what to do when things get tough.

For children with autism, engaging in sensory activities is an important way to help with their development. Sensory games can be fun for the whole family and are a great way to connect with your autistic child.

Why are sensory activities good for autistic children?

Sensory activities help autistic children to learn about their surroundings and the world around them. These activities also help with important skills such as communication, problem solving, and socialization.

Additionally, sensory toys can help children with autism relax and de-stress. For example, a fidget spinner or sensory ball can give an autistic child something to focus on when they are feeling anxious, overwhelmed, or stressed out.

Sensory activities you can do at home

Here is a list of 10 great sensory activities that you can play with your child at home.

Sensory Bin

Fill a large container with different textures and objects for your child to explore. This can include anything from rice, beans, or pasta to feathers, fabric scraps, or small toys. Let your child dig through the bin and explore the different textures.

Water Play

This is a great activity on a hot day! Fill a kiddie pool, bathtub, or even just a large bowl with water and let your child play. Add some fun items like plastic balls, small toys, or sponges to make it more interesting.

Sensory Table

A sensory table is a great way to provide a variety of different textures and objects for your child to handle. You can buy a sensory table, or create your own by using a large plastic container and filling it with different items such as sand, water, foam balls, or small toys.

Ice Exploration

Fill a bowl or container with water and add some food coloring. Freeze the mixture overnight and let your child play with the multicolored ice cubes. This is a great way for your child to experience temperature changes.

Silly Putty

Silly putty is a great sensory activity because it can be molded and stretched into different shapes. It also makes noise when you squish it, which can be fun for kids. You can buy silly putty or make your own by adding cornstarch and food coloring to Elmer’s glue.

Bubbles

Blowing bubbles is a fun sensory activity that can also be calming for kids with autism spectrum disorders (ASD). You can buy bubble solution or make your own by adding dish soap to water and food coloring if desired. Let your child blow the bubbles, or just pop them with their hands.

Window painting with shaving cream

Set up a window with shaving cream and let your child paint away! You can also add food coloring to the mixture if you want your child’s artwork to be colorful. 

This activity is great for sensory exploration but it can also help develop fine motor skills like painting or drawing because children need to use their fingers when they are creating designs on glass. Just make sure that they understand not to hit the window too hard.

Walking on Rice

Fill a large container with rice and let your child walk through it barefoot. This can be an interesting way to explore different textures, as well as fine motor skills development since they’ll have to balance themselves while walking across the rice. You could also use other materials like beans, pasta, or sand.

Texture Hunt

Hide different objects around the house that have interesting textures for your child to find. This can be anything from a soft blanket to a bumpy plastic ball. Encourage your child to touch and feel the different textures.

Sensory Bag

A sensory bag is an easy activity to set up and can be reused multiple times. Just place different objects like small toys, feathers, or fabric scraps into a Ziploc bag and seal it shut. Your child can then explore the contents by feeling and squeezing the bag.

Sensory Tunnel

A sensory tunnel is a great way for kids to explore their senses of sight , touch, and sound. You can buy a sensory tunnel or make your own by using PVC pipe and a tarp or blanket. Drape the fabric over the pipe and secure it with clothespins. Your child can crawl through the tunnel to explore.

One of the best things about sensory activities is that they don’t have to be expensive or elaborate. You can use items from around the house, and many of them are easy enough for toddlers and preschoolers to participate in.

Helpful tips for parents when playing at home sensory games with their autistic children.

Give your child time to get used to the sensory activity. This will help prevent sensory overload, which can lead to anxiety or aggression in an ASD child who has difficulty processing information from his/her surroundings all at once (this may happen when there’s too much going on).

Here are some tips to keep in mind when starting a sensory sessions with your child:

-Start out with short sessions so your child doesn’t get overwhelmed.

-Be patient and let your child take their time exploring the different activities.

-If your child becomes agitated or upset, stop the activity and try again later.

-Make sure the activities are safe and within your child’s abilities.

-adapt the games to fit your child’s interests and needs.

Final Thoughts

Sensory activities can be a great way to help develop your autistic child’s skills and provide them with some fun and excitement. With a little bit of creativity, you can come up with many different activities that will keep your child engaged and interested. So get creative and have some fun!

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) causes a host of neurological and physical symptoms. One of the most noteworthy ones pertains to food sensitivities.

This article was written for parents that want to assist their autistic children with overcoming eating difficulties, choosing an appropriate diet, and maintaining healthy bodily levels of nutrients and vitamins.

Common Medical and Nutritional Challenges for Kids with Autism

Autistic children typically experience medical issues that impact their gastrointestinal (GI) tract and nutrition.

Firstly, if you suspect that your ASD-diagnosed son or daughter has a GI problem, you want to keep an eye on these symptoms:

• Abdominal distention (which can lead to eating too much or constipation without having an underlying sickness)
• Bloating
• Constipation
• Diarrhea
• Discomfort in the stomach or GI tract
• Fecal impaction (constipation patients are more likely to develop this condition)
• Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
• Leaky gut syndrome
• Regurgitation of food (this entails spitting out or emitting it after it enters the stomach, even if the child doesn’t have an illness or health condition that may cause this)
• Releasing gasses excessively

Additionally, your autistic kid could run into the following nutritional shortcomings:

• Allergies
• Intolerance towards certain foods
• Problems with eating or being fed

As a parent, you can minimize the effect of these health issues by feeding your child meals with specific ingredients while avoiding others.

Autism Diet

Since each autistic kid is different, it is difficult to define a particular diet that suits every person that has ASD.

Nonetheless, you will probably provide your son or daughter with relief by making dietary changes that omit the following ingredients and food items:

• Casein proteins (you should consider a casein-free diet for your child, which leaves out milk, whey, and additional nutrients that are high in casein)
• Eggs
• Fish
• Gluten (a gluten-free diet excludes several types of grains)
• Individual proteins, namely casein, gluten, and others
• Peanuts
• Seafood
• Soy

Why does removing these foods work?

Some of the proteins and ingredients that we listed above could create inflammation in the gut and stomach. In turn, this might lead to further problems in the GI tract and organs.

You may prevent this from happening when you identify the nutrients that are causing these difficulties and take them out of your child’s diet.

How to Test the Foods and See if Symptoms Change

Before you make any meal plan changes, you want to initially pinpoint the foods that are affecting your son or daughter’s GI tract.

To so, follow these steps:

1. Pick an ingredient or item to remove, such as eggs, gluten, and/or seafood.
2. Gradually and slowly reintroduce these ingredients to your kid’s diet.
3. If your child’s symptoms reappear or get worse, you will know that the food product is what’s causing the problem. Consequently, you must permanently eliminate it from their meals.
4. If nothing changes and no symptoms emerge, you can go back to step 1 and test how other ingredients or items could impact your autistic boy or girl’s GI organs.

Keep in mind that kids with certain medical conditions have unique dietary requirements.

Dietary Restrictions for Those Who Have Autism and Seizures

Unfortunately, it is not uncommon for autistic children to also suffer from seizures. In those cases, you may want to consider one or both of these diets:

• Ketogenic (Keto) Diet: Simply put, a keto regimen entails meals that are high in fats and low in carbohydrates.
• Sugar or Yeast-Free Diet: While this might greatly help, you should remember to avoid foods that can cause GI issues even if they don’t contain any sugar or yeast (fish and seafood, for instance).

Downsides to the Keto Diet

Before you switch your autistic child to a keto diet, you must first talk to their doctor and/or a registered dietitian so that they supervise the transition.

This is important since a keto diet, when implemented the wrong way, can negatively impact your son or daughter’s growth, weight, and cholesterol levels. A lot of parents attain good results from a keto meal plan by combining it with other ingredients and foods.

What if my child is a picky eater?

Some kids are very selective when it comes to food. This is even more likely to be the case among those who were diagnosed with ASD.

If this applies to your child, here is how you can effectively cater to their dietary needs:

• Avoid textures that your son or daughter doesn’t like.
• Give them their own plate, particularly when they feel uncomfortable with sharing one.
• Introduce new foods and meals in a gradual and slow manner.
• Make meal time more enjoyable and fun for your kid.
• Pick ingredients with colors that your child likes.
• Prepare their food in the shape(s) that they prefer.
• Talk to their doctor about supplements and vitamins when your kid’s picky eating habits are preventing them from obtaining the nutrients that their body requires.

In short, your ultimate goal is to eliminate or minimize any GI challenges that your autistic son or daughter is facing and, at the same time, ensure that they’re consuming a healthy amount of vitamins and nutrients.

You could do this by identifying the specific meals or ingredients that they’re insensitive towards and, from there, making the necessary dietary adjustments.

By being creative, parents can create a food plan that pleases even the pickiest and most selective autistic eaters.

If you’ve ever tried to help an autistic child groom their nails you probably already know that it can be challenging, for you and the child! Some of the ways autism presents can make cutting nails more difficult than for other children, which also means it’s more difficult for the person trying to help them.

Not understanding why autistic children struggle with having their nails cut only makes the problem worse.

So, we’re going to talk about why it’s hard for autistic children to have their nails cut, and offer some solutions that might make it easier for you and the child.

Let’s get started.

Why Is Cutting An Autistic Child’s Nails So Difficult

It’s important to remember when you’re dealing with an autistic child, and that even most neuro-typical children don’t like having their nails trimmed. That’s important because it means that an autistic child’s discomfort isn’t that unusual, they just may have a more severe reaction to having their nails trimmed.

Autistic children are also likely to think that nail trimming is unnecessary, so they don’t understand why they need to go through a difficult and uncomfortable process. Sometimes you can explain why nail trimming matters, but autistic children might not care, and may not be able to listen at the moment.

Many autistic children also dislike being touched, especially for a prolonged period. That means that holding their hand to cut their nails might be uncomfortable for an autistic child, and they might not want to let you hold their hand long enough to get the job done.

The last common reason autistic children don’t like having their nails trimmed is they don’t like the sound. Especially since the sound of nail trimming can be unpredictable, it may be overwhelming and uncomfortable for autistic children.

Those are only some of the most common reasons. Every child is different, so every autistic child is likely to have different reasons behind their behavior when their nails are trimmed.

Tips For Cutting Your Autistic Child’s Nails

Each of these tips can help make it easier to cut an autistic child’s nails, but it’s also important to combine different tips and to pay attention to how each child reacts. What works for one autistic child won’t necessarily work for another, and what worked once might not work a second time.

Always try to adjust your nail trimming process to meet the needs of the child, whatever those might be at the time.

First, Try Starting Slowly:

You might not trim every nail every time, but if you can trim even one or two you might be able to start building the child’s tolerance to having their nails trimmed.

Over time you’ll be able to increase how many nails you trim, or how closely you trim each nail. But, you may reach plateaus where there isn’t progress. Don’t let that discourage you.

Don’t Go Wild When They Do Cooperate With Nail Trimming:

Pushing too hard on a good day, especially if it’s uncomfortable or ultimately makes the autistic child unhappy, will likely make it harder the next time.

Make Sure You’re Both Comfortable:

You don’t have as much tolerance when you’re uncomfortable, and neither do autistic children. Making sure you’re both as comfortable as you can be will help make the process less stressful for you both.

Talk Them Through The Process:

Some autistic children benefit from being talked through what you’re doing as you’re doing it. Telling them you’re going to clip one nail, and before each clip, and then when you move on to the next finger will help them process what’s going on and stay calmer.

Explain Why This Needs To Be Done:

Autistic children usually don’t understand why their nails need to be trimmed, and it might take them longer to understand than other children. Explaining why you’re trimming their nails, with examples, each time will help them understand and stay calmer.

Explaining also sets the expectation that they get to know why something is happening and have some say in it.

Try A Hand Massage Before Nail Trimming:

Giving an autistic child a small hand massage before you get started can make the whole process a lot easier. That’s because it helps them associate their hand being held with a pleasant sensation, instead of just an uncomfortable one.

This can also be a good option to help after nail trimming, especially if the massage is comforting or feels good to the child.

However, a hand massage may not be useful for autistic children that are touch averse. If possible, you can always ask if they want a hand massage before you get started.

Try Using The Right Equipment:

Using a typical nail clipper might not be a good option for autistic children. They need to move too much, and it can be uncomfortable.

Switching to a 360-degree nail clipper is one option since the child can hold still while you adjust the clipper to the right angles.

If that doesn’t work, an electric trimmer might be a better option. It will feel and sound a little different, which might be more tolerable for some autistic children.

Try Filing First:

For some autistic children, filing, which is more consistent than clipping, might be a good starting place. You still need to start slow if you choose this option and work your way up to filing more than one nail, and then a whole hand.

But, once your child accepts filing you may be able to try nail clipping again, especially if you explain that it’s faster.

Consider Using Toys and Videos as Distractions:

In some cases, your best option might be helping your autistic child tolerate nail clipping by giving them something else to help them distract.

Stimming toys are a common option for this kind of distraction, but almost any toy or video your child finds engaging can work. You can even try playing their favorite song or letting them hug a favorite blanket.

Remember, the easier you can make nail trimming for your autistic child, the easier it will be for you, and the better they’re likely to behave. Fighting an autistic child to trim their nails is more likely to make it harder over time, especially if the child doesn’t understand what you’re doing or why.

Work with their autism, not against it, and you’ll have better results.

The research to better understand conditions like autism and sensory processing disorder (SPD) is getting better by the day, but there’s still a lot to learn. For example, many people still aren’t aware of the correlation between these two conditions and what they entail. In this guide, we’ll cover all the basics so that you have a better understanding of these conditions and their therapeutic options.

What is Autism?

Autism is a development disorder that takes on several forms. It is what is known as a “spectrum” disorder because it can appear in different people with different symptoms, levels of severity, developmental concerns, and so forth. Autism can cause children to learn, react, and attend to details differently than children without this condition, or those who are neurotypical.

Autism causes a wide range of social and communication challenges for those afflicted. With proper interventions (and especially early intervention), such as ABA therapy,  a lot of the issues can be overcome or made less severe. There have been several methods and therapies studied for assisting those with this condition, and because there is still so much to learn, a lot of research is ongoing.

One thing we do know is that autism is typically linked to sensory processing disorder, which we’ll discuss next.

What is Sensory Processing Disorder?

Sensory processing refers to the way that a person’s brain perceives sensory information, as well as how the person responds to that information. Someone who struggles with sensory processing or who is diagnosed with SPD will typically have an impairment in the way that their brain processes these elements.

When the brain cannot properly process the senses and the world around it, regulating behavior and motor functions like coordination and balance can become difficult. There are several components of sensory processing and even one of them being off can lead to a lot of developmental delays and the need for therapeutic intervention. There are eight total components of sensory processing to be aware of, as you’ll see in the list below.

8 Components of Sensory Processing

The components of sensory processing that you need to be aware of include:

•         Taste
•         Touch
•         Smell
•         Sight
•         Sound
•         Vestibular Function- how the inner ear and brain work to control balance, eye movement, and body awareness
•         Proprioception- the sense of awareness of one’s body movements or positioning
•         Enteroception- the awareness of what’s happening within one’s own body

Some of these come with a preoccupation or aversion to certain things (loud noises, certain tastes or textures, etc.) The way that the brain processes these things has somehow been interrupted, and it results in several different potential issues.

When it comes to the types of sensory issues that exist, two main conditions typically occur, both at either end of the extreme. Let’s look at those two sensory issues now.

Two Types of Sensory Issues

Although several different issues and challenges may present themselves with sensory processing disorder and autism, they can typically be divided into two main groups.

Hypersensitivity

This refers to children who are easily stimulated by any sensory elements or stimuli. These children may have a low tolerance for pain or the aforementioned loud noises. It could also include light sensitivity, coordination issues, and so forth. The hypersensitivity could impact appetite and ability to eat certain foods, so this could create a situation where you have a finicky eater on your hands, too. It’s not uncommon for there to be food issues with these two conditions, and again they all come in different shapes and sizes.

Hyposensitivity

On the other end of things, and in a potentially more dangerous light, is hyposensitivity. This condition causes children not to have enough sensory stimulation. This could mean they have a higher pain tolerance, or they bump into objects and walls because it doesn’t occur to them not to. They may also have a need to be constantly touching or mouthing items, although it’s unsure exactly how that’s related to the lack of sensitivity.

Autism and Sensory Processing Disorder

More than 80% of all children with autism also have sensory processing disorder. According to the DSM-5, SPD is a behavior specifically associated with ASD, but most of the children with SPD do not have autism. The other variable is that sensory processing disorder usually affects touch more than anything, while those who have autism will struggle more with sound processing.

It’s still being learned as to how these two are related specifically, but both conditions can cause children to learn and react to things differently, as well as to interact differently with the world around them. Depending on the type of sensitivity that they struggle with, it could compound with the addition of an ASD diagnosis, but the therapeutic approaches are typically similar in nature.

Therapy for ASD and SPD

As mentioned, there have been plenty of therapies and approaches that have been studied for autism and sensory processing disorder. Currently, ASD is best treated using ABA therapy, or Applied Behavioral Analysis. Essentially, it uses a style of programming to help kids learn by offering them a reward (often related to their stimming or sensory issues) in exchange for acquiring skills or learning various things.

Occupational therapy is used for sensory processing disorders, including things like teaching children coordination and how to handle other sensitivity issues through exposure and practice over time. An occupational therapist will focus on the specific sensitivities that a child has and attempt to work on improving the challenges that they face. Sensory integration is proving quite effective as a solution, but since the debate on this disorder is still out, there is a lot left to learn. As of now, we at least know that occupational therapy is helping children with sensory issues, and in the future, that’s only likely to get better.

To learn more about how these issues can be resolved with ABA and occupational therapy, as well as what the future holds and how you can help your child thrive, visit us at https://hiddentalentsaba.com/.

Up until 2013, Asperger’s syndrome and autism were considered different conditions. For years, these conditions were diagnosed separately, but they now fall under the umbrella of autism spectrum disorder.

Both conditions have relatively similar symptoms. People suffering from either of the two exhibit similar communication and behavioral patterns, which makes the distinction between the two diagnoses fuzzy. The American Psychiatric Association therefore has since made a change to the manual practitioners use to diagnose mental health conditions. In the new edition, Asperger’s syndrome is incorporated into the diagnosis of ASD.

This article explores the differences between the two conditions. We’ll also look at the criteria used for each diagnosis. But before we get to that, let’s check out each condition separately.

Autism Disorder

Autism disorder is a complex, lifelong developmental condition. It impacts how you perceive and socialize with others. This leads to social interaction, communication, self-regulation, and relationship problems.

Now that you have a basic understanding of what autism is, let’s have a look at Asperger’s.

Asperger’s Syndrome

When Asperger’s syndrome was added to the DSM-4, it was described as having the same characteristics of autism, but with one key exception: People diagnosed with Asperger’s syndrome didn’t have delays in language and communication, as was seen with autistic patients.

As such, many medical professionals believed that Asperger’s was a form of “high-functioning” autism. Typically, this meant that a person’s development and language skills were considered “normal” according to neurotypical standards.

But as mentioned, the publication of DSM-5 in 2013 saw Asperger’s syndrome folded into Autism spectrum disorder (ASD).

So, what’s the difference between the two?

The Differences Between Autism and Asperger’s

Both conditions are now listed under the umbrella of ASD. However, Asperger’s has milder symptoms. Let’s see how they compare.

Speech and Language

The major difference between autism and Asperger’s is that the latter has milder symptoms and a general absence of language delays. In most cases, children that were diagnosed with Asperger’s have good language skills. However, they may find it challenging to fit in with their peers.

On the other hand, children with autism typically exhibit difficulty in speech and communication. In most cases, they have difficulty understanding what someone is saying to them. And in some cases, they might also have trouble picking up non-verbal cues like facial expressions and hand gestures.

Autistic children also frequently exhibit repetitive language. They might also have narrow topics of interest. For example, they may only be interested in cars and thus, only talk about cars.

Cognitive Functioning

Unlike in autism, children diagnosed with Asperger’s cannot have a clinically significant cognitive delay. They generally have average or above-average intelligence. Autistic children, on the other hand, may have significant cognitive delays.

Age of Onset

On average, autistic children are diagnosed at four. However, individuals classified under Asperger’s may not show any symptoms until they reach teenage or adulthood.

This is mainly because children with Asperger’s don’t have lower IQs. They also don’t exhibit any language delays. As such, you may not realize that your child has a developmental delay until they start engaging in more social interactions.

And how are these two conditions diagnosed? Read on to find out.

Criteria for Each Diagnosis

Asperger’s Syndrome

There are currently no specific tests that can diagnose Asperger’s. However, Asperger’s was commonly diagnosed in childhood. This is because the possibility of an individual fully reaching adulthood without an Asperger’s diagnosis was somewhat limited but not impossible.

Here is a summary of the diagnosis criteria for Asperger’s in children from the previous version of DSM.

•         Severe impairment in social interactions
•         Repetitive behaviors or movements
•         Difficulty with verbal or nonverbal communication
•         Lack of interest with others or taking part in activities
•         Few to no long-term relationships with peers
•         Immense interest in specific aspects of objects
•         Strict adherence to ritual behaviors or routine
•         Difficulty in maintaining jobs, relationships, or other aspects of daily life
•         Showing little to no response to emotional or social experiences

Autism

Like with Asperger’s, there are currently no standard diagnostic criteria for autism in adults. But those are in development. In the meantime, medical professionals diagnose adults with autism through a series of in-person interactions and observations. They also consider any other symptoms that the individual is experiencing.

If you think you have ASD, you should consult your family doctor. They will perform an evaluation to ensure there isn’t any underlying medical condition affecting your behavior. They might then refer you to a psychologist or psychiatrist for a more in-depth assessment.

The medical professional may want to talk to you about any issues you have regarding emotions, communication, range of interests, behavioral patterns, and more. You’ll also have to answer questions about your childhood. And in some cases, they might ask to speak to your parents or any other older family member to get a perspective about your lifelong behavior changes.

Your doctor might determine that you didn’t display symptoms of autism as a child but instead began experiencing them as a teen or adult. In this case, they might evaluate you for other possible effective or mental health disorders.

Here is a summary of the diagnosis criteria for autism.

•         Difficulty with everyday conversations
•         Having difficulty understanding or responding to social cues
•         Sharing interests and emotions less often than peers
•         Having delayed language or speech skills
•         Speaking in atypical ways, for example, in a singsong voice
•         Having difficulty understanding other people’s emotions or facial expressions
•         Doing repetitive actions such as rocking and flapping
•         Experiencing intellectual delays
•         Becoming angry or overwhelmed with new situations
•         Having trouble understanding or developing relationships
•         Sensitivity to certain stimulants like bright lights or loud noises
•         Becoming intensely interested in certain topics
•         Having a significant need for a predictable order and structure

The Bottom Line

Since 2013, medical professionals have considered Asperger’s as part of a broader classification of ASD. That being said, a person with an Asperger’s diagnosis might not necessarily identify as having ASD.

Learning the difference between the two is helpful. But taking action is even more important. If you or your child is experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned above, you should seek guidance as early as possible. Early intervention, such as ABA therapy, can provide valuable opportunities to learn practical independent life skills.

This article is about Autism Acceptance Month and all that you need to know about it. More specifically, we will go over a brief history of the event, how you can participate in it, and what its organizers are trying to achieve.

When you’re done reading this article, you will become more aware of what autism is and learn about how you can educate others about this condition.

The History Behind Autism Acceptance Month

The story of Autism Acceptance Month goes back to the 1970s. Firstly, in 1970, the Autism Society initiated its campaign to promote autism awareness across the United States. Their goal was to ensure that autistic people can obtain the best quality of life that’s possible.

Secondly, in 1972, the Autism Society went on to inaugurate the National Autistic Children’s Week. They started to host this event every year, up until it turned into Autism Awareness Month.

Lastly, but certainly not least, is that ‘Autism Awareness Month’ was renamed to ‘Autism Acceptance Month’ in March 2021, right before the annual occasion took place.

When is Autism Acceptance Month?

April is Autism Acceptance Month. The 2nd day of April is Autism Awareness Day. Yet, the entire month is dedicated to promoting acceptance of autism.

How can I participate in Autism Acceptance Month?

By engaging in the following acts of kindness, you can partake in Autism Acceptance Month and help raise awareness about the challenges that autistic people face:

• Advocate for policies and laws that have a positive impact on the autism community.
• Dedicate yourself to taking action that makes the world a kinder place.
• Donate to autism charities, buy merchandise from them, and engage in other acts of giving.
• Educate yourself in classrooms and/or at fundraising events.
• Share resources (such as the real-time support, guidance, and information that the Autism Response Team provides) and potentially-influential stories on social media.
• Start an autism kindness campaign at your workplace or school.

When you participate in and support Autism Acceptance Month, you will be helping the event’s organizers reach their objectives.

The Goals of Autism Acceptance Month

Here are the main purposes of having an awareness and acceptance month for autism:

• Advocating for the inclusion of autistic people in schools, workplaces, and society in general.
• Assisting others learn more about what autism is and what the condition entails.
• Raising money and funds for autism charities and nonprofits.
• Increasing people’s understanding and acceptance of autism.

These goals have been consistent since 1972, when the effort was first launched. The expansion from having a week dedicated to autism to a month-long event enabled charities to further advance these objectives.

By dedicating yourself to kindness, donating funds, sharing resources, and hosting events, you can effectively participate in Autism Acceptance Month and help autistic people attain the quality of life that they desire.

Autism, or autism spectrum disorder, (ASD) is a neuro-divergent, categorized group of developmental disabilities that can affect a range of skills and developmental processes in a person. Autism is not contagious, nor is the direct cause of autism known.

Being autistic can impact a person’s life in several areas, including communication, social skills, social development, and behaviors. However, not every case of autism looks or presents itself the same, and people are often diagnosed on a spectrum.

Read on to understand more about what autism is, when symptoms begin to show, and what the process of diagnosing a person with autism may look like.

How Young Can Autism be Detected?

Autism shows itself in development, meaning that as a person develops and ages, certain neuro-divergences, and behavioral presentations begin to show. Autism can sometimes be detected in babies 18 months or younger, but that is frequently not the case.

Typically, an autistic person will have a diagnosis of autism by 2 years old. This is because as the child grows and develops, it is easier to see certain milestones they are surpassing or missing in comparison with their age group.

However, some people do not get diagnosed with autism until they are in their teens or even adulthood.

Having an early diagnosis of autism is very important so that the person can begin treatments that might be able to help them, such as speech therapy, educational therapy, applied behavioral therapy, or tactile occupational therapy.

What Are Some Early Signs of Autism?

There are many early signs of autism, but as stated before, each case of autism looks different and it can be hard to differentiate when a child is autistic or if they are struggling with certain behaviors or actions for other reasons. 

That said, some of the most common early signs of autism are as follows:

•     Avoiding Eye Contact: Often, a child with autism will avoid looking at others directly in their eyes. They may tilt their heads away or shift their eyes away from the faces of others. This is a sign of a behavioral and communicative symptom.

•     Low Socialization: Children are often incredibly social creatures, who enjoy and find interest in others as they explore the world. If a child is showing little to no interest in other children or caretakers, they might be displaying a social symptom of autism.

•     Limited Use of Language: Communication is a huge part of autism. Many people with autism show signs of struggling to communicate or have a hard time mastering language skills. They may miss milestones that their peers easily reach or may use alternative methods of communication, rather than spoken language. Sign language is a common alternative for non-verbal people with autism.

•     Reliance on Routine: Getting upset by minor changes in the day-to-day routines of life is another sign of autism. Folks with autism rely on routines to feel safe and so that they know what is coming and can prepare themselves for it. So if your child always takes a bath at night and one day they need to bathe in the morning, this could cause them to get upset.

Process of Diagnosing Autism

The process of diagnosing autism is broken down into two main parts that are both very important. They are as follow:

Screening

The first part is a screening where health care professionals look for a variety of communication, behavioral, and social developmental differences that line up with the diagnosis requirements of autism. Health care professionals will administer tests to make sure they can rule out any other developmental differences, like ADHD.

They will use several different types of assessing and testing so that they can definitively diagnose the person with autism as well as figure out the severity of the diagnosis so they can recommend treatments or therapies that may help the person to live an easier life.

Some of the tools that might be used in the screening process are :

•     Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers, Revised with Follow-Up (M-CHAT-R/F): This is a brief checklist of yes and no items for early autism detection for children 16 months to 30 months of age

•     Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised (ADI-R): a semi-structured interview where parents and specialists work together to make a diagnosis.

•     Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule-Generic (ADOS-G): An interview with activities conducted by a trained specialist to make a concrete diagnosis.

•     Childhood Autism Rating Scale (CARS): An observation of a child’s behavior and actions which is rated on a 15 point scale to see where the child’s relationships with people, body behaviors, adaptation to changes, listening skills, and communication skills are developmentally.

•     ThinkAspergers: a screening tool in a mobile phone app that helps the informal detection of autism that can be used by teachers, parents, and medical professionals.

The Diagnosis

During the diagnosis meeting, you will hear from the medical professional whether your child has autism or not. During this meeting, the medical professional may refer you to some therapists who might be able to help you and your child create a better and easier life for your child.

They will also explain what they were looking at and why they came to the conclusion your child has autism.

What May a Doctor Look at During the Screening?

The following list is some of the things your doctor or health care professional may be looking for during the screenings and diagnosis process:

•     Did your baby begin smiling around 6 months?
•     Did your baby mimic sounds and make facial expressions by 9 months?
•     Was your baby cooing, babbling, and making noise by 12 months?

They may also ask about other behaviors, such as:

•     Does your child exhibit repetitive or unusual behaviors?
•     Does your child have trouble making direct eye contact?
•     Is your child interacting with other people and sharing their experiences?
•     Does your child respond to attempts to get their attention?
•     Does your child have a vocal tone that could be described as “flat”?
•     Does your child understand other people’s actions and behaviors?
•     Is your child sensitive to inputs like noise, temperature, light, or textures?
•     Does your child have sleep or digestive issues?
•     Is your child likely to get irritable or annoyed quickly?

Remember that autism is common and your child can and will live a full and vibrant life, regardless of their diagnosis status. It is important to give them the best possible chance to succeed in their lives by putting them in the proper therapies that can help them learn to live with autism and overcome the limitations autism may impose on them.

Patience, understanding, and education will be your best tools as you begin to navigate this new aspect of your child’s life as well as your own. 

It is common for young children to struggle with falling asleep and staying asleep. That being said, some children, such as autistic children, are more prone to experiencing these kinds of problems than others. In this guide, we will go through different factors which may affect an autistic child’s sleep, what you can do as a parent or guardian to help, and what products may help support their sleep routine.

Factors that Affect an Autistic Child’s Sleep

It is not uncommon for autistic children to struggle with sleep issues. There are different factors which may cause these issues, including the time at which they go to bed, what they do before they go to bed, where they sleep, and what they do during the day.

Tips for Making an Autistic Child’s Bedtime Better

There are different ways to help improve your child’s sleep cycle. In this portion of the guide, we will go through different tips to help your child get to sleep at night and feel better rested throughout the day.

Set Up a Bedtime Routine

Having a specific bedtime routine for your child to follow every night has been proven to promote positive sleep cycles. According to one peer-reviewed study, a stable bedtime routine is important not only for “healthy sleep, but also for broad development and wellbeing in early childhood.”

There are different ways to set up a bedtime routine for your child. For example, taking a bath, brushing teeth, and reading a fun book with your child every night before they go to sleep may help promote restful sleep. By repeating these activities consistently, your child will begin to associate them with bedtime, making the transition to sleep easier.

As part of a daily routine for your child before going to sleep. It is equally important to maintain consistency for the routine to work and help your child sleep. Another effective tool to add to a sleep routine is to remind your child at different intervals how close to bedtime they are, such as 30 minutes, 15 minutes, 5 minutes, and the like.

Keep Naps Early and Short

Long naps in the afternoon can make a regular bedtime especially difficult for your child as they may not feel fatigue until later in the night. In order to avoid this, it is important to keep naps short and early in the afternoon so that your child may comfortably go to sleep at their regular bedtime.

Figure Out How Much Sleep Your Child Needs

Depending on their age, your child will need different amounts of sleep. According to the United Kingdom’s National Health Service (NHS) official website, including naps, children between one and two years old require 11 to 14 hours of sleep, those three to five years old require 10 to 13 hours, and children six to twelve require 9 to 12 hours.

Avoid Screens Before Bedtime

A growing amount of research has shown that screens such as smartphones and tablets have a negative effect on sleep when used right before bedtime. According to one study published in the Child and Adolescent Psychiatric Clinics of North America journal, the increasingly widespread use of electronic screens has led to “delayed bedtime and/or decreased total sleep time” which in turn can have negative psychological effects on the person’s psychological and physical wellbeing.

Set Up an Environment Where Your Child Feels Safe

It is important for your child to feel safe and secure at night so they can sleep well. If certain decorations are anxiety-inducing for them, removing them may help them feel safer. Having their favorite toys and blanket with them can help them feel more comfortable as they go to sleep.

Why do Autistic Children Have Difficulty Sleeping?

It has been shown that children with autism are more likely to suffer from sleep problems such as insomnia, frequent awakening, and daytime sleepiness, than children who do not have autism. Sleep problems in children with autism may be due to “genetic, environmental, immunological, and neurological factors.”

These may also be caused by problems with melatonin releasing, as well as increased anxiety due to heightened sensitivity to external stimuli during the day which may disrupt the ability for the child to fall asleep and stay asleep throughout the night.

Other Ways to Improve an Autistic Child’s Sleep

Along with a better sleep routine, avoiding screens before bedtime, and avoiding long and late naps, there are certain products which may help promote better sleep for an autistic child. These include blankets, sound machines, and special sleepy time pillows.

Blankets for Autistic Children

Weighted blankets are therapeutic blankets which are heavier than regular blankets and may help people living with sleep deprivation, anxiety, autism, and depression. For the best weighted blankets, we recommend the:

•   Dream Land Baby Company Weighted Blanket
•   SensaCalm Weighted Blanket

Weighted blankets can also be custom-made to perfectly adapt the child’s weight. Weighted blankets should never be used by a child under the age of one.

Other Products to Help an Autistic Child Sleep

There are other products to consider for your child if they are autistic and suffering from sleep problems. On the Autism Products website,you can find a long list of products specifically designed and adapted to autistic children’s needs. These include:

•   Autism Product ROHM Portable White Noise Sound Machine
•   Autism Product ZPod Autism Bed
•   Autism Product Sleepy Time Pillow

There are many different products available on the market to help autistic children sleep. It is important to speak with a medical professional before purchasing these products to make sure that they are 100% safe and beneficial for your child.

Conclusion

There are many different factors which may negatively affect an autistic child’s sleep. As a parent or guardian, it is important to take the time to identify what may help your child sleep and what you can do to help. If you are unsure or have additional questions, make sure to contact a medical professional to get the best possible information regarding your child’s sleep cycle and difficulties.

Children with autism often have trouble sleeping. There are many possible reasons for sleep issues, from sensory overload to difficulty winding down and irregular melatonin levels. In this article, we tell you more about sleep problems related to autism and offer useful tips to help your child sleep better. 

Are Sleep Disorders Common With Autism?

Sleep problems are twice as common in children with autism than among neurotypical children and those with other developmental disabilities. It is estimated that anywhere between 50% and 80% of children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder have some type of sleep difficulty, for example: 

• Insomnia
• Restlessness and poor sleep quality
• Difficulty falling asleep
• Waking early and not being able to fall back to sleep
• Waking frequently during the night.

There are many factors that can cause autistic children to experience sleep problems. Read on to learn more.

What Causes Sleep Disorders in Children With Autism?

As with many other symptoms of autism, the causes of sleep disorders are not well understood. Some possible explanations include:

• Children with autism, unlike their neurotypical peers, don’t have the proper social skills to pick up on social cues that indicate when it’s bedtime.
• Autistic children produce less sleep-related hormone melatonin than neurotypical children.
• Children with autism spectrum disorder have atypical circadian rhythms, or the internal body clock.
• Many children with autism have sensory issues, such as sensitivity to certain sounds or white noise. These sounds may be upsetting or distracting and keep your child awake.
• Gastrointestinal problems, common in children with autism, may disrupt sleep.
• Increased levels of stress and anxiety, inability to relax, and ADHD can cause insomnia.
• Epilepsy and other neurological conditions may be another reason behind sleep difficulties in children with autism.

What Kind of Effects Do Sleep Problems Have?

Research has shown children with autism who have sleep problems display more severe behavioral and learning issues during the day, such as: 

• More pronounced social communication challenges
• More compulsive rituals and obsessive behaviors
• More instances of challenging behavior
• Hyperactivity
• Attention deficit disorder
• Irritability and aggression
• Depression
• Obsessive-compulsive disorder
• Poor learning and cognitive performance.

Fortunately, there are some tools that may help your child with autism with their sleep issues. 

Tips To Help Your Autistic Child Get More Sleep

All children need enough good-quality sleep to develop and grow, and children with autism are no exception. However, your child may need extra support to develop good sleep habits. Here’s what you can do to help: 

• Establish a nighttime routine. Put your child to bed at the same time every night and try to stick with the same routine also on weekends and holidays if possible.
• Help your child relax before bed by giving them a bath and a gentle back massage, reading a story, and turning on relaxing music.
• Create a predictable transition from waking to sleeping hours. Give your child a warning 15, 10, and 5 minutes before starting the bedtime routine. You can also use visual timers or auditory alarms.
• Avoid giving your child stimulants such as caffeinated drinks and sugar before bed.
• Switch off the television, video games, and phones at least an hour before bedtime.
• Make sure your child gets enough physical activity during the day.
• Keep your child’s bedroom cool, dark, and quiet in order to avoid sensory issues that may prevent them from sleeping well. Install thick carpeting, hang heavy curtains to block out the light, and set the room temperature to suit your child’s sensory needs.

• Use social stories to explain the importance of sleep to your child. In addition, social stories can also be used to reassure your child that they are safe when sleeping. 
• Use visual supports such as schedules and timetables as well as children’s books to explain to your child what they are expected to do at bedtime.

• Consider purchasing products designed for children with sensory issues, such as weighted blankets, soothing pillows, and white noise machines.

In the next section, we list some of the products that may help your child sleep better.

Blankets for Autistic Children

Dream Weighted Sleep Blanket for Kids

The Dream Weighted Sleep Blanket will keep your child with autism warm and safe at night. The blanket weighs 4lb and offers pressure stimulation to help naturally decrease anxiety, reduce sensory overload, and promote healthy sleep patterns. It is suitable for ages 3+.

Mosaic Weighted Blankets

The pressure of these weighted blankets offers a reassuring sensation that will help your child release the feel-good happy chemical serotonin and increase melatonin levels for better sleep. Mosaic Weighted Blankets come in several different sizes and a variety of fun patterns for your child to choose from. 

SensaCalm Weighted Blankets

SensaCalm is a family company that sells custom-made weighted blankets and other sensory products designed specifically for autistic children.

Other Products To Help an Autistic Child Sleep

Rohm Portable White Noise Sound Machine

Rohm compact portable white noise machine is suitable both for everyday use and for travel. It makes a soothing, consistent sound similar to that of a fan that will mask any disturbing noises and help your child sleep better. 

Blue Starry Bed Tent for Kids (Twin)

This special twin bed tent that glows in the dark is comforting for children who are afraid of the dark. It can also be used as a play area and a place for alone time during the day. The lightweight pop-up frame is very easy to set up and take down.

ZPod Autism Bed

ZPod beds are specifically designed to create an individualized enclosed sensory sleep space for children with autism. Each bed features intelligent lighting control, a white noise generator, air filter, room temperature control, and several other functions that will help children find better sleep. 

Sleepy Time Pillow

The natural fragrance of these small soothing pillows will calm your child’s mind from the anxieties of the day and help them relax. The pillows are filled with natural lavender flowers and flax seeds come in a variety of colors and textures. 

If your son or daughter was diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), you probably know that professional attention and care are crucial. Yet, they are also expensive.

In light of that, we put together this article to help you understand what your options are for paying for your autistic child’s ABA therapy treatments in Houston.

Click here if you want to learn more about our ABA therapy program in Houston.

What is ABA therapy?

Applied behavior analysis (ABA) therapy enables autistic patients to manage and improve their symptoms.

Children with autism who undergo ABA therapy sessions typically perform better in the following areas:

• Academic performance
• Communication capabilities
• Reading
• Social skills
• Adaptive learning (for example, doing chores, employment, motor skills, and personal hygiene)

Because ABA therapy is the most prevalent treatment for autism, many people place a high value on it.

How much does ABA therapy cost on average?

The average cost of hiring a licensed and certified ABA therapist is $120 per hour. To clarify, this is equal to $4,800 if your child or loved one saw a practitioner for 40 hours per week.

On an annual basis, the expenses could add up to almost $250,000 for those who don’t have insurance.

Does Medicaid cover ABA therapy in Houston?

Three states’ Medicaid programs don’t include ABA therapy coverage, and Texas is among them.

Texas’s Law on Autism Insurance Coverage

In Texas, any health insurance plan is required, by law, to cover generally-recognized autism therapies and forms of care. However, for a health insurance plan to pay for ABA therapy, you need to obtain a recommendation from your or your loved one’s doctor.

Generally-Recognized Services

You want to keep in mind that Texas’s laws specifically use the term “generally-recognized services” when referring to prescribed ASD treatments that insurance plans must cover.

ABA therapy is among them, alongside the following “generally-recognized services”:

• Medications
• Nutritional supplements
• Occupational therapy
• Physical therapy
• Speech therapy
• Other treatment plans

Although this requirement used to only apply to private insurance policies, it was recently extended to encompass state-funded coverage plans.

Does private insurance in Texas cover ABA?

This depends on the policy that you have. In short, there are two types of insurance plans in the Lone Star State:

Self-Funded Plans

With a self-funded policy, your employer (who provides the insurance) will directly cover the bill for ABA therapy sessions. After that, they contact the insurance company to receive reimbursement.

Employers that offer self-funded plans have contracts with insurance firms, and they work together on administering the treatments, maintaining claims records, and making payment/reimbursement arrangements.

In the past, only self-funded plans in Texas covered ABA therapy.

Fully-Funded Plans

On January 1st, 2010, a new law kicked in and mandated that state-funded plans pay for the care of any autistic child who is under the age of 10.

The Following Plans Cover ABA Therapy in Texas

Your insurance will cover your loved one’s ABA therapy costs in Houston (and in the state of Texas, in general) if you have a private health policy with one of those companies:

• Aetna
• Beacon/Value Options
• Blue Cross Blue Shield Texas
• Blue Cross Blue Shield Magellan
• Cigna Behavioral Health
• ComPsych
• Humana (LifeSynch)
• Magellan
• TRICARE
• United Health Care/United Behavioral Health/UMR

Texans and Houston residents who don’t have Medicaid or one of the above plans can still get ABA therapy coverage through alternative options.

Other Ways to Pay For ABA Therapy in Texas

The following governmental programs may help you pay for your child’s ABA therapy:

Supplemental Security Income

The Social Security Administration has a supplemental security income (SSI) for children program, and kids that are considered disabled could be eligible for it.

SSI is specifically designed to assist families and individuals that have a limited amount of income or resources.

Firstly, to qualify for SSI benefits, your kid must be under the age of 18. However, those who are attending college are entitled to these benefits until they become 22 years old.

Secondly, to obtain financial support through SSI’s disability program, your son or daughter must meet Social Security’s definition of “disabled”. To do so, you need to demonstrate two things (which shouldn’t be difficult for those with an autism diagnosis):

• The child’s disability causes “marked and severe functional limitations”.
• Their condition “has lasted or can be expected to last for a continuous period of not less than 12 months”.

Apart from the federal government, kids with ASD can get help from the state in Texas.

The Health and Human Services Children’s Autism Program

The Texas Health and Human Services Autism Program extends to any child who is a Texas resident, between 3 and 15 years of age, and officially diagnosed with autism.

The state’s Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) will cover the costs of up to 180 hours of ABA therapy sessions per year. To clarify, this is the equivalent of 3 and a half hours per week.

Having said that, many autistic kids need 40 hours of ABA therapy (or at least when they initially start seeing a provider). If you’re in this situation, you should consider additional forms of support alongside the Texas HHS program.

Other Resources That Can Help Pay For ABA Therapy in Texas

There are several Texas-based and national nonprofit organizations that assist families with the expenses of ABA therapy.

• ACT Today: Autism Care Today/ACT Today has programs that pay for ABA therapy. Moreover, they can help you access funds through one of their many partner organizations.
• The People Project: Formerly known as the Huckleberry Foundation, the People Project “provides financial assistance to families with children in need of therapy stemming from special needs [and] mental health issues”. They are also launching a Mental Health Aid Fund that pays for evaluations, parental training, equine/horse therapy, prescriptions, and more.
• Autism Speaks: Autism Speaks, a nationally-renowned nonprofit, can refer you to a variety of programs and organizations based on your specific situation. Additionally, they have valuable financial planning tools and apps that are designed for parents.
• Giving Angels Foundation: The Giving Angels Foundation particularly caters to low-income households that have kids with physical or mental disabilities. Their one-time allowance/grant could be as high as $500, and families may obtain up to $50,000 per year in aid from this organization.

To summarize, the cost of ABA therapy is certainly expensive. While Medicaid in Texas doesn’t pay for it, the state’s laws require private insurance companies to do so.

The fact that there are multiple federal, state, and nonprofit programs that financially support the families of autistic children should give you even more options for ways to cover your son or daughter’s ABA therapy bill.

We all want the best for our children. That’s why we always go out of our way to provide for them and make their lives much easier. But what happens when you’re unable to afford to your child’s treatment?

Applied behavioral analysis (ABA) therapy is considered one of the best treatments for autistic children. However if your insurance is not going to cover the treatments it can get pretty expensive.

Therefore, we have put together this guide so you will understand all the payment options that are available to you.

But before we get into the payment options for ABA therapy in Atlanta, let’s take a quick look at the therapy itself. 

Click here if you want to learn more about our Atlanta based ABA therapy.

What is ABA Therapy?

Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) is a science that focuses on improving behaviors such as communication, social skills, academics, and reading. It’s also aimed at improving adaptive learning skills, including hygiene, fine motor dexterity, and domestic capabilities.

The therapy also aims to improve patients’ skills in grooming, punctuality, and job competence. All this is achieved through operant conditioning and positive reinforcement.

On Average, How Much Does ABA Therapy Cost?

Typically, a board-certified ABA therapist will charge you about $120 an hour. This adds up to $4800 a week for a child receiving 40 hours of therapy. If you don’t have insurance, you could end up spending up to $125,000 a year on ABA therapy.

For most parents, coming up with these figures is very challenging. Some may not even afford to get their children enough hours of therapy each week. Without sufficient time with patients, an ABA therapist can’t fully analyze behavioral changes or build rapport with them.

That being said, several factors come into play when determining the overall expenses for ABA therapy. They include:

•         The severity of the autism experienced by the child
•         Where the therapy will take place
•         Length of time spent with the ABA specialist
•         The individual ABA therapist’s desired rates and experience level

Does Medicaid Cover ABA Therapy in Atlanta?

Since January 1st, 2018, Medicaid has been providing coverage for Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) patients under the age of 21. The coverage is provided according to the severity and medical necessity.

How to Get Medicaid Coverage for ABA Therapy

If you want to get Medicaid to cover ABA therapy in Atlanta, there is some paperwork you need to get in order. You must have a document indicating your child’s DSM-V diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder. The diagnosis must also be from a licensed medical professional, such as a physician or psychologist.

A licensed physician or healing arts practitioner must also recommend ABA therapy for your child. The services must also be recommended to prevent autism spectrum disorder from progressing and improve the patient’s physical and mental health.

What Insurances Does Hidden Talent Accept?

Hidden Talent believes that children with autism can lead happy and productive lives. It focuses on helping children grow and thrive by improving social, communication, and adaptive skills.

It also understands the financial burden that ASD therapy can put on you as a parent. As such, it has partnered with various insurance companies to enable you to get the funding you need to cater to your child’s needs.

Hidden Talent accepts the following insurance companies:

•         Aetna
•         Ambetter
•         Amerigroup Community Care
•         BCBS
•         Beacon
•         Caresource
•         Cigna
•         ComPsych
•         Humana
•         Medicaid
•         OPTUM
•         Peachstate
•         Tricare
•         United Commercial
•         United Healthcare
•         Wellcare of Georgia

If you have any of the above as your insurance provider, contact them to get a full list of your benefits.

Does Georgia Have Caps of ABA Therapy Coverage?

According to Georgia laws, individuals with autism are entitled to meaningful coverage in state-regulated plans. Ava’s law, which was originally passed in 2015, has been amended to increase the limits on the coverage of ABA therapy to individuals between 0 and 21 years.

Also, each individual’s coverage is limited to a maximum annual benefit of $35,000 per year.

By law, the following services must be covered for those with autism:

•         Diagnosis and treatment of ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorder)
•         Rehabilitative services, including applied behavior analysis (ABA)
•         Counseling services provided by a licensed psychologist, licensed psychiatrist, clinical social worker, or professional counselor

Other Resources That Can Help Pay for ABA in Atlanta

Anchor of Hope Foundation

Steve and Debbie Harbin founded the Anchor of Hope Foundation in 2007. They were inspired by their son Jacob, who was diagnosed with autism at the age of three.

The couple spent years working with doctors and therapists, so they know the difficulties, disappointments, and discouragement that come with raising a special needs child. Despite this fact, they value the unique joy and blessings their son, Jacob, brings to their family. They also desire to help other families facing the same ordeal through the journey.

The foundation offers scholarship grants of up to $250 towards equipment, therapy, and other needs that are not covered by insurance. They hold offer tons of family events where both parents and autistic children can connect and share their experiences.

Avita Community Partners

Founded in 1999 by the Georgia State Legislature, Avita Community Partners serves individuals experiencing the disabling effects of developmental disabilities, mental illness, and addictive diseases.

They seek to promote stable, safe, and meaningful lives for citizens within a 13-county area in northeast Georgia.

United Healthcare Children’s Fund

The United Healthcare Children’s Fund Foundation offers timely financial support to families with autistic children. They help with the medical expenses that are not covered or fully covered by the families’ health insurance provider.

The Bottom Line

Caring for an autistic child can be challenging, especially when they don’t have access to the treatments they need to live happy and fulfilling lives. ABA therapy is scientifically proven to help autistic children live normal lives.

And although ABA therapy is expensive, there are tons of payment options out there that can help you finance your child’s treatment.

Many parents or caregivers of children with autism notice that their child struggles with sleep. This can be for a variety of reasons; one of the common conclusions is that children with autism suffer from sleep disorders. This article will explore that idea, giving possible causes and solutions.

Are Sleep Disorders Common with Autism?

It is estimated that anywhere between 50-80% of children with disorders on the autism spectrum struggle with some form of sleep disorder. This can range from difficulty falling asleep, restlessness or waking often/early, or insomnia to general poor sleep quality. Inconsistent sleep routines can exacerbate these struggles, but since the anxiety around sleep can also cause behavioral issues, it can be hard for caregivers to stick with solid sleep routines, making the cycle even worse.

There are many possible causes for this range of sleep disorders, which we will now discuss.

What Causes Sleep Disorders in Children with Autism?

In general, children use social cues to know when it is bedtime—seeing that their family members are slowing down and beginning to ease into a time of relaxing and quiet—but children with autism don’t easily pick up on social cues, often not at all. This can make it more difficult for the body and mind of a child with autism to recognize and feel comfortable with easing into bedtime.

Children with autism also might have increased sensitivity to outside stimuli. Meaning that neurotypical people can have lights on, watch TV, eat a sugary dessert, or play an enthusiastic board game right before bed and go to sleep just fine, but a child who is more sensitive to these stimuli will have an incredibly hard time winding down afterward and not be able to sleep.

Melatonin is also an important component of the sleep cycle, not only in children with autism but in all people. To make melatonin, the body needs an amino acid called tryptophan (which is in turkey, remember how people always say turkey makes you sleepy at Thanksgiving?); research has found that melatonin levels are either much higher or much lower in children with autism.

As you can imagine (or have already experienced), this range of sleep disorders or problems can have frustrating effects on the life of a child with autism and their family dynamic.

What Kind of Effects Do Sleep Problems Have?

Children with autism already struggle with things that come naturally to neurotypical children, such as sensory regulation, language skills, learning and cognitive skills, body balance, and more. In anyone, and especially in a child with autism, not having proper sleep can make all of these struggles even more intense and frustrating.

Research has shown that there is a connection between lack of sleep and the following characteristics in children with autism:

•         Aggression
•         Depression
•         Hyperactivity
•         Increased behavioral problems
•         Irritability
•         Poor learning and cognitive performance

Sleep disorders in children with autism are a hurdle for any caregiver, but there are many solutions that can help ease this part of life with a child with autism.

How Can I Help My Child Sleep Better?

There are plenty of things a parent or caregiver can do to help their autistic child sleep better. First, avoid stimulating food or activities within an hour of beginning the nighttime routine, such as caffeine and sugar. bThey make the nighttime process much more difficult as autistic children are more sensitive to outside stimuli. 

Next, establish a routine each night for the evening and going to bed. Make sure to begin this at the same time every night to help their body remember that it is time for sleep. You can help your child relax before bed by moving to a relaxing part of their room, giving a gentle back massage, or turning on soft music. 

To prevent sensory distractions during the night, put heavy curtains on your child’s windows to block out the light, install thick carpeting, and make sure the door doesn’t creak. You can also make sure that the temperature of the room and choice of bedding fit your child’s sensory needs. If they are comforted by it, a sound machine could help them zone into their space and prevent distractions from the rest of the house.

Sleeping Medication for Children with Autism

Many doctors or medical professionals recommend trying a sleeping medication for children with autism. There are many choices, each with its own benefits and potential side effects, so make sure to talk with your child’s provider and make a plan for their individual needs.

Some options are:

•         Antihistamines – usually for allergies, can help induce drowsiness
•         Motrin – an anti-inflammatory that can help calm the body
•         Melatonin – a form of what the body naturally produces to induce sleep
•         Clonidine – treats hypertension and ADHD but has sedative-like side effects
•         Benzodiazepines – mostly given to adults
•         Z drugs – many side effects reported
•         Antidepressants – may have sedative-like effects

Some children may experience a range of side effects from their doctor’s choice of medication, and others may not. Many children with autism are also on other medications, so the possibility of those drugs not working well together needs to be explored as well.

Final Thoughts

As with any parent who has a child struggling with something in life, you want to help your little one be comfortable, healthy, and successful. Sleep is important for all of us and especially so for children with autism. There are many things you can add to your daily and nighttime routine and many that you can remove to help your child sleep better.

Brushing Teeth for Children With Autism

Good oral hygiene is not only healthy but can also boost your quality of life. Unfortunately, many children with autism find this seemingly simple experience very challenging.

As a parent or caregiver, you have to guide them through this process and make it as pleasant as possible. First, let’s discuss why it’s challenging for a child with autism to brush their teeth.

Why is Brushing Teeth a Challenge for a Child With Autism?

Many children diagnosed with autism find tooth brushing a very unpleasant experience due to sensitivity issues. Medical professionals categorize these issues into two categories: hypersensitivity and hyposensitivity.

Hypersensitivity and Hyposensitivity

Hypersensitivity refers to heightened sensation and awareness of anything that goes in the mouth area. Children with hypersensitivity perceive tooth brushing as an over-stimulative and unpleasant experience when not performed correctly.

Hyposensitivity, on the other hand, refers to numbness or limited sensation in the oral region. Autistic children with hyposensitivity often feel anxious about the steps in the tooth-brushing process.

Whether a child is hypersensitive or hyposensitive, below are some tips that can make brushing his or her teeth easier.

Tips for Brushing an Autistic Child’s Teeth

1.      Get the Right Toothbrush

A regular toothbrush may feel unfamiliar or foreign for an autistic child with oral sensitivity. So, instead of a regular toothbrush, find one with soft or silicone bristles. A gentler toothbrush can help desensitize your child’s mouth, and in time, they will gradually grow accustomed to the sensation of having their teeth brushed.

2.      Get the Right Toothpaste

As an adult, you’ve had years to get used to mint-flavored toothpaste. Unfortunately, the same cannot be said for autistic children with sensitivity issues. In most cases, regular toothpaste causes a bitter or burning sensation in their mouths.

Fortunately, there is a wide variety of toothpaste with child-friendly flavors out there. You can choose flavors like vanilla ice cream, berry, and bubblegum. If your child likes experimenting with colors, you can also get them multicolored toothpaste.

3.      Try Fluoride-Free and Unflavored Toothpaste

In some cases, toothpaste’s flavor and foaming might cause sensory overload. So, instead of regular flavored toothpaste, go for unflavored and non-foaming toothpaste.

Since the major ingredient in foaming toothpaste is sodium laureth sulfate, your pediatric dentist might suggest a herbal or powder toothpaste as an alternative. Similarly, if your child has difficulty swallowing, it might help to start them off with a fluoride-free toothpaste before gradually transitioning them into fluoride toothpaste.

4.      Try Flossing

If your child doesn’t like using a toothbrush, flossing can also help them develop good oral hygiene. For the best results, let your child choose their favorite flavor. Apart from flavor, you should also consider the correct floss size.

If your child has widely-spaced teeth, then a thick floss would work best for them. Similarly, if your child’s teeth are closer together, consider getting them a thinner floss.

If flossing doesn’t work, try other toothbrush varieties. For example, if your child struggles to hold a toothbrush, try placing a foam grip or tennis ball on the handle to make it easy to hold. Electric toothbrushes also come in handy in providing stimulation for autistic children with hyposensitivity.

5.      Create Incentives/Awards

Verbal praises and reward systems work great in reinforcing positive behavior. Consider complimenting and rewarding your child once they’re done brushing their teeth.

6.      Do It in the Room Where the Child Is Most Comfortable

Autistic children can benefit from visual supports and schedules that help them associate toothbrushing with a daily routine. While you’re at it, consider the child’s favorite room and place all their designated toothbrushing supplies in that room.

The tips above will improve your child’s experience when brushing their teeth. Now, let’s look at how your child should brush their teeth.

The Correct Way to Brush Teeth

When you brush your child’s teeth, make sure to clean the outside, inside, and chewing surfaces. The following steps can guide you in properly brushing your child’s teeth.

• Brush the top front teeth five times.
• Brush the bottom front teeth five times.
• Brush the bottom back teeth five times.
• Brush the top back teeth five times (outside, inside, and chewing surfaces).
• Brush the middle teeth five times (upper and lower incisors).
• Finally, brush the outside surfaces of teeth and rinse.

Toothpastes to Try

In most cases, regular toothpaste doesn’t work well with autistic children with sensitivity. That being said, the following examples of toothpaste have shown some very promising results with autistic children.

• Unflavored Toothpaste Oranurse – Oranurse is an unflavored toothpaste that’s specially formulated for autistic children who have a problem with taste. This non-foaming toothpaste has the daily recommended fluoride and does not contain any traces of sodium lauryl sulfate. This makes it especially suitable for autistic children who don’t like the taste of mint and also patients with sore mouths.

• Bob Unflavored Toothpaste – If your child does not like the taste of mint, then this might be the best toothpaste for them. This flavor-free toothpaste is made from natural xylitol and does not contain any harsh chemicals. Like our previous pick, this toothpaste also comes loaded with the recommended daily fluoride levels to provide the best cavity protection, tartar control, and enamel repair. It also comes in eco-friendly packaging.

• Jack N’ Jill Natural Kids Toothpaste – This toothpaste features a mild taste that makes it suitable for children who tend to swallow their toothpaste instead of spitting it out. It’s made from 100% natural ingredients like xylitol and calendula, which help actively prevent cavities and tooth decay. It also provides a soothing effect on the mouth and is gluten-free, fluoride-free, and SLP-free.

Best Toothbrushes for Autistic Kids

Finding the best toothbrush for your autistic kid can be pretty daunting. To make your shopping experience a little easier, we’ve reviewed two of the best toothbrushes for autistic kids.

• bA1 Sensory – This three-sided toothbrush has a 200% greater coverage per stroke and comes with very soft bristles to prevent sensory overload. The special expansion pleats allow the bristles to expand to different tooth widths, making it perfect for kids with oral motor issues. It also comes with an ergonomic handle that makes it very easy for kids to hold.

• CollisCurve™ – Special Needs Toothbrush – If you want to provide the best toothbrushing experience for your autistic kid, then you should probably get them a toothbrush that’s specially designed for sensitive gums. This toothbrush features flexible and gentle bristles that are sure to reach all your child’s teeth without causing them any discomfort. It also comes equipped with expansion pleats that allow the bristles to expand to different tooth widths for a deep clean.

·         Happi Teeth Auto Toothbrush – If your kid doesn’t like their regular toothbrush, why not switch it up with an automatic toothbrush? This automatic toothbrush is guaranteed to make their toothbrushing experience more fun. It comes in a hand-less design, which means they don’t have to hold it when brushing their teeth. All they have to do is place it in their mouth, and it will do the rest.

Unlike most toothbrushes in the market, this toothbrush doesn’t use bristles to clean teeth. Instead, it utilizes ultrasound technology which eliminates the sensory effects associated with regular toothbrushes. Its ultrasound technology also enables it to reach all parts of the mouth, providing a deep-clean action that actively eliminates plaque and bad breath.

The Bottom Line

Mouth sensitivity among autistic children makes it very hard for them to practice proper dental hygiene. But, with the proper technique, coupled with the right tools for the job, you can make your child’s toothbrushing experience both fun and effective.

For autistic children who struggle with sensory issues, having their hair brushed may be extremely challenging, leading to angry outbursts and meltdowns. Below, we list some techniques that you can use to make hair brushing a more enjoyable experience for your child with autism.

Why Is Brushing Hair a Challenge for a Child With Autism?

Many children with autism have a condition known as sensory processing disorder. This condition can make personal care tasks, including brushing and styling their hair, very difficult. 

What is sensory processing disorder?

Sensory processing disorder (SPD) is a type of neurological disorder that prevents the brain and nervous system from correctly integrating sensory input from the environment. There are two types of sensory processing issues: under-sensitivity and oversensitivity.  

Some children with SPD are under-sensitive (hyposensitive). They show little or no reaction to sensations like heat, cold, and pain and often seek more sensory stimulation. Other children are oversensitive (hypersensitive) to the information they receive through their senses, causing them to avoid these sensations. For a hypersensitive child with sensory processing disorder, loud noises, bright lights, and touch can feel overwhelming.

Most children with autism spectrum disorder experience a mix of the two sensory issues. They are hyposensitive to certain sensations and hypersensitive to others. 

What senses are affected?

Sensory processing disorder can affect one or more senses that may cause your child to struggle with having their hair brushed.

Tactile

Many children with sensory issues have very sensitive scalps and don’t like to have their heads touched by brushes or combs. Tactile sensitivity is the most common reason for problems with hair care in autistic children.

Vestibular

The vestibular system controls the body’s sense of balance and motion. Some children don’t like having their heads tilted backward or forward when you brush their hair. It can make them feel uncomfortable, unsteady, and scared.

Auditory

Some autistic children are extremely sensitive to the sound of clippers or water in a shower.

Olfactory

Your child may react to the smell of hair products, which makes the hair brushing experience unpleasant.

Here are some tips on how to make hair brushing less stressful and slowly integrate it into your child’s daily routine. 

Tips for Brushing an Autistic Child’s Hair

• Determine the cause of your child’s aversion to hair brushing. Once you understand what your child’s main sensory issues are, you will be able to eliminate the causes of stress. 
• Accept that your child’s resistance to hair brushing doesn’t mean they’re being difficult. There might be a real sensory issue that is causing them pain or discomfort.
• Give your child more control, for example, allow them to choose hair products and let them brush and style their own hair.
• Don’t expect your child to sit still while you brush and style their hair. Let them play with a fidget, stress ball, or watch TV as a distraction.
• Let your child look at the mirror while you’re brushing their hair to give them a greater sense of control.
• Choose a low-maintenance hairstyle for your child that will require less brushing.

• Children with a sensory processing disorder depend on a reliable routine. Try to brush your child’s hair at the same time each day. It’s usually a good idea to do this after physical activity later in the day as children are often more sensitive in the morning.
• Make a visual schedule to break down hair brushing into smaller steps. This will also help your child understand what is expected from them.
• Use a visual timer to let your child know how long brushing their hair will take.

• Many autistic children are sensitive to gentle touch. Make sure to place your hand firmly at the top of your child’s head and brush small sections of the hair at a time. Hold a strip of hair above any tangles so that your child doesn’t feel the tugging as you pull the tangle loose. 
• Massage your child’s scalp before you start brushing their hair. This can help decrease sensitivity.
• If your child doesn’t like having their hair brushed, you may try switching to a brush designed for children with sensory issues. The hairbrush should have soft bristles with rounded heads to make the experience more comfortable. Let your child choose a brush that feels good.
• Use a good-quality hair detangling product to reduce discomfort. 

Keep on reading to find out what are the best brushes and hair detanglers for children with autism. 

Brushes for Children With Autism

Tangle Teezer Salon Elite Detangle Hairbrush

This professional detangling brush with memory flex technology can be used for all hair types. It eliminates tangles and knots on both wet and dry hair and minimizes breakage. 

Tanglefix

Tanglefix is perfect for brushing and detangling straight, wavy, and curly hair. This brush is lightweight and features soft bristles and easy-grip sides for better control. 

Knot Genie Detangling Brush

Knot Genie lets you easily brush and detangle your child’s hair. Its cloud-shaped top will fit your palm perfectly whether you’re right or left handed to make the brushing process more comfortable.

Hair Detanglers for Children With Autism

Johnson’s No More Tangles Spray Detangler

Johnson’s mild detangling spray instantly unlocks knots and tangles, making hair brushing and styling easier. The product can be used on wet or dry hair. It is hypoallergenic and contains no parabens, phthalates, sulfates, or synthetic colors.

SoCozy Detangler Leave-In Conditioner Spray For Kids Hair

SoCozy detangler will soften your child’s hair in a matter of seconds, making it easy to brush. It is suitable for all hair types and will leave your child’s hair soft and shiny. This detangler contains keratin, soy protein, and kiwi extract to moisturize and protect the hair. It has no parabens, sulfates, phthalates, dyes, or allergens. 

Mane ‘n Tail Detangler The Tangles and Knots Solution

The Mane ‘n Tail detangler is formulated with natural herbal extracts to help nourish and strengthen your child’s hair. It’s safe and gentle for all hair types.

Most of us think of taking a bath as a relatively relaxing experience, but for someone who is sensitive to stimuli, there’s actually a lot going on.

When parents bathe their autistic children, they face a variety of challenges. Below we’ll discuss why that is and what parents can do to make bath time with an autistic child a more pleasant experience for everyone.

What is autism?

Autism, or autism spectrum disorder (ASD), is a developmental disability. However, the reason it’s referred to as a “spectrum” disorder is because there is a wide variety of conditions that fit into this category, and some cases are more severe than others.

In general, autism is often characterized by delays in social development, communication issues, repetitive behaviors, and challenges related to interacting with the outside world.

According to the Centers for Disease Control, autism affects an estimated 1 in 54 children in the United States today.

Why may someone with autism have a bathing issue?

When a child is diagnosed on the autism spectrum, you may have trouble interacting with them. Characteristics of autism that can lead to challenges while bathing a child, specifically, include:

–          Their likeliness to get upset by minor changes

–          Their desire to follow specific routines

–          Physical reactions such as hand flapping and body rocking

–          Unexpected (and often unpleasant) reactions to the way things sound, smell, taste, look, or feel

–          Their hyperactive and impulsive behavior

But the main challenge for children on the autism spectrum when it comes to bath time is their reaction to physical stimuli. An autistic child may find bath time traumatic, which in turn makes it hard for whoever is bathing them.

Heightened sensory issues

Children on the autism spectrum are often overstimulated during bath time. This may be because they do not enjoy the sounds and feelings associated with being in the bath or the need to sit still during their discomfort.

Some of the things that may affect them negatively include: 

            – Splashing or running water

            – Water temperature

            – Bathroom lights

            – The smells of soaps or shampoos

            – The feeling of soap on their skin

            – The feeling of being towel-dried or wrapped in a towel

            – The feeling or fear of getting soap in their eyes

            – The sound of water draining

As a result of these negative feelings, children may develop a fear of water. They may also get anxious about getting out of the tub and being exposed to the cold air or slippery surfaces.

A bathtub is a relatively confined space, which can lead to feelings of claustrophobia as well.

Tips for bathing someone with autism

The best way to make bath time more enjoyable (or at least less traumatic) for everyone is to limit a child’s exposure to potential fears as much as possible and play to their strengths.

Pick a time that works for them

Children on the autism spectrum generally like routine. If bath time happens at the same time and in the same way each day, there may be less room for anxiety over the unexpected.

It may also be wise to schedule bath time a few hours before or after other stimulating activities so the child is already calm and not overstimulated. 

Prepare the bath in advance

If your child is sensitive to sounds, fill the bathtub without them in the room. You may also keep in mind the height at which they prefer the water. Some children do not like to be submerged more than is necessary.

You can also perform a temperature check so you know the bath water will not be too hot or too cold for the child and cause them extra discomfort.

In addition, if you prepare a child’s bath ahead of time, you will have the chance to remove any items (such as toys or excess bottles) that might cause them anxiety.

Make a to-do list

Uncertainty on the part of the parent or child makes bath time more difficult. That’s why it may be helpful to make a list of everything you need to do in order to prepare your child for bath time.

In the event that another guardian is bathing them, having a list will help them keep bath time as consistent as possible for your child as well.

Minimize fragrances

Most fragrances are artificial anyway, so a fragrance-free bathroom might be in everyone’s best interests.

Children on the autism spectrum can react poorly to strong or new smells, so it’s a good idea to minimize fragrances by doing the following:

–          Eliminate air fresheners or other scented decor from the bathroom your child uses for bath time

–          Invest in soaps and shampoos that are fragrance-free

Decide if a shower or bath is better

In some cases, a shower may be a better option than a bath for a child on the autism spectrum. It will all depend on the individual and how they respond to the feeling of water on their skin.

Try both a bath and shower with your child, making sure you use a routine, pay close attention to water temperature, and eliminate as many scents as possible before deciding which they respond to best.

Toys for bath time

Some autistic children are easier to bathe when they are distracted by toys. Here are a few bath tub items to try:

Sensory sponges – This 14-piece sponge set is practical and playful. The different textures will allow your child to choose what they enjoy most. Click here for purchase information.

Bath crayons – These easy-wash crayons are a great distraction for children who don’t enjoy bath or shower time, but do love to get creative. They let your child focus on something more pleasant so bath time is over before they know it. Click here for purchase information.

PipSquigz – This silicone suction toy is designed to get your child to notice it rather than their surroundings. They can provide a soothing sensory experience for younger children. Click here to purchase.

Shampoo, body wash, and conditioner for autistic children

It’s important to choose cleansing items carefully for your autistic child to eliminate any unwanted smells or textures. Here are a few recommended items for bath or shower time:

Nature Clean Kids Shampoo & Body Wash – A two-in-one product that is hypoallergenic, fragrance-free, natural, and non-irritating.

Suave Sensitive Skin 3-in-1 Shampoo, Conditioner, Body Wash – This product takes care of all 3 bathing necessities in one bottle. It’s also fragrance-free.

Babo Botanicals Sensitive Baby Fragrance Free Shampoo & Wash – This two-in-one product is also formulated for sensitive skin and senses. 

Although there’s no cure for autism, a range of therapies can help reduce the most common symptoms associated with the condition. However, early diagnosis and interventions are crucial for achieving long-term positive effects on skill development. Continue reading to find out what types of early autism solutions are available and how they can help autistic children reach their full potential.

What Type of Therapy Do Autistic Children Need?

Most therapies for children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder are based on either a behavioral or developmental approach. The two approaches are often combined and used in speech, occupational, physical, and social development therapies, depending on the child’s individual needs.

Behavior therapies

Behavior therapies, generally referred to as applied behavior analysis (ABA) therapies, are used to help children with autism learn new skills, reinforce positive behaviors, and reduce unwanted ones. 

Techniques typically used in behavioral therapies include:

• Discrete Trial Training (DTT), a technique that breaks down skills into smaller components that are easy to learn. 
• Early Intensive Behavioral Intervention (EIBI), a comprehensive instruction method used for autistic preschoolers. 
• Pivotal Response Treatment (PRT), a play-based treatment initiated by the child.
• Joint Attention, Symbolic Play, Engagement, and Regulation (JASPER), the approach that identifies and treats the principal deficit areas in autistic children.

Developmental therapies

Developmental therapies help promote social interactions by teaching the necessary social, communication, and daily living skills. 

Examples of developmental therapies include:

• Developmental Social-Pragmatic (DSP) treatment, a model that uses everyday interactions between autistic children and the caregiver in order to promote communication skills.
• Developmental and Individual Differences Relationship (DIR) therapy, also called Floortime, that builds on strengths, interests, and already existing communication skills to motivate autistic children to learn new skills.
• Relationship Development Intervention (RDI), a family-centered approach designed to build relationships through sharing various emotional and social experiences.
• Responsive Prelinguistic Milieu Teaching (RPMT), an intervention for autistic children who are nonverbal or who have significant speech delays.

Combined therapies

Certain therapies for autism combine elements of behavioral and developmental approaches. These therapies are often shown to be the most effective ones. For example, behavioral therapy may show better results if it also includes elements of developmental therapies that focus on learning skills.

Combined therapies include:

• Early Start Denver Model (ESDM), a play-based therapy that helps develop social communication in children with autism.
• Communication, Emotional Regulation, and Transactional Support (SCERTS) that uses elements from several other approaches, including ABA, Floortime, and RDI. 

Therapy-based supports

Therapy-based supports for autistic children target specific difficulties when it comes to development or communication skills. They are often used together with, or as part of, other therapies and include: 

• Speech therapy that addresses challenges with language and communication
• Occupational therapy that helps develop fine motor and daily living skills
• Key Word Sign strategy, the use of signs and gestures to support language development
• Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS) which allows communication through pictures.

Below, we focus on the benefits of ABA therapy for children with autism. 

What Is Aba Therapy?

Applied behavior analysis (ABA) is the most popular therapy for autism offered in early childhood. It focuses on changing unwanted behaviors while reinforcing desirable ones through positive reinforcement in the form of rewards and other incentives. 

ABA therapy can help your child with autism build and strengthen social and communication skills, such as:

• Increase attention, focus, and memory
• Learn to follow directions and instructions
• Improve language skills 
• Learn to initiate conversations and respond to questions

• Help understand social cues like facial expressions and body language
• Reduce problematic behaviors such as aggressivity and meltdowns
• Help acquire basic academic and pre-academic skills.

Read on to find out more about the different types of early intervention therapies. 

What Is Considered Early Intervention Therapy?

Early interventions take place at or before preschool age. An early intervention therapy can be used already at the age of 2 or 3, as soon as your child is diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder. At this age, your child’s brain is still forming, which increases the chances of treatments being effective in the long run.

There are several different types of early intervention therapies that can help your child gain the basic physical, cognitive, communication, and emotional skills that they would typically learn in the first years of life. These therapies include:

• Occupational therapy
• Physiotherapy
• Speech therapy
• Hearing impairment services
• Nutritional therapy
• Psychological therapy
• Family training.

Autistic children often benefit from a combination of these therapies. In addition, they often need different therapies or therapy combinations at various stages of their development.

We’ve seen that there are many effective treatments that can help reduce autism symptoms, but you may be wondering whether early treatment increases the chances that your child will outgrow autism. 

Can Early Autism Go Away?

Autism is typically considered a lifelong condition, although research shows that some children can outgrow a diagnosis. However, children who are likely to see radical improvement are those with normal or above normal IQ and mild autism symptoms that don’t include issues such as seizures, speech delays, learning disabilities, or severe anxiety. 

And that’s not all. Results can only be achieved with rigorous long-term therapy. For example, ABA-based early intervention requires up to 40 hours of treatment per week for several years before you can see a significant improvement.  

It is also important to keep in mind that even high functioning children who appear to outgrow autism often continue to struggle with sensory issues, communication difficulties, and other challenges.

Does Medication Help Autism?

Medication can’t cure autism, but it can effectively treat symptoms that autistic children may experience, for example:

• Stress and anxiety
• Hyperactive behavior
• Obsessive compulsive behavior
• Aggressive behavior
• Self-harming behavior
• Seizures
• Tics
• Sleep disorders.

Medications that are used to treat these symptoms include:

• Typical antipsychotics (haloperidol, chlorpromazine, and fluphenazine) and typical antipsychotics (risperidone and aripiprazole) for reducing autism-related irritability 
• Stimulants (dexamphetamine and methylphenidate) for a temporary increase in mental or physical functions.

Medications for treating symptoms of autism are most effective when combined with behavioral or developmental therapies.

Autism is a developmental disability. It’s characterized by relationship, social, communication, and behavioral challenges. The disorder is a spectrum condition, meaning it affects you differently and with varying degrees. Autism appears during early childhood and does not fall in the medical conditions category. 

There is nothing significant that sets you apart from the rest if you’re autistic. The only difference is that you learn, think and solve problems differently. Let’s start by understanding bipolar disorder to know how it compares to autism.

Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition that causes regular mood swings. The mood swings can be high (mania or hypomania) or low (depression). It’s known to affect your energy, sleep, thinking, behavior, and other day-to-day tasks. Here are the three common types of bipolar disorders:

Bipolar I Disorder

You know you have this variant when you start experiencing manic episodes that last for at least one week. Sometimes, the episodes become so severe that you need emergency medical care. You may also experience depressive episodes that last for two weeks. Bipolar I disorder is characterized by:

• Heightened mood 
• Exaggerated optimism
• Inflated self-esteem
• Excessive irritability or aggressive behavior
• Decreased need for sleep
• Racing speech or thoughts
• Impulsiveness or poor judgment
• Reckless behavior

In more severe cases, you may experience psychosis involving delusions and hallucinations.

Bipolar II Disorder

Unlike bipolar I disorder, bipolar II disorder is characterized by depressive episodes. However, the episodes are not as extreme as those in bipolar I. Symptoms of bipolar II include:

• Low mood
• Extended sadness, even crying unexpectedly at certain times
• Major effects in appetite and sleep patterns
• Anxiety and anger issues
• Reduced energy 
• Feelings of guilt and unworthiness 
• Reduced or zero concentration 
• Regular suicidal thoughts
• Psychosis in extreme cases

Cyclothymic Disorder 

Manic and depressive behavior episodes characterize this bipolar variant. However, it’s less intense than the other two types mentioned above. The behaviors can last up to two years in adults and one year in children. 

Note that you can escalate bipolar episodes if you misuse drugs and alcohol. As a result, you may suffer from a condition known as “dual diagnosis.” Dual diagnosis requires a specialist to tackle both problems.

Next, let’s look at how bipolar disorder and autism relate to each other.

Are Autism and Bipolar Disorder Related?

Bipolar disorder may manifest in people with autism during early childhood development. According to a 2008 study, 27 percent of people with autism show symptoms of bipolar disorder. Scientists also suggest that 4% of the general population with bipolar disorder may be over-diagnosed. This is because it’s hard for people with autism to relate feelings properly. 

The probability of developing both conditions is not yet clear. It’s also unclear what factors or triggers lead to high chances of suffering from autism or bipolar disorders. 

But in some cases, these conditions are genetic. So if you have a close family member with autism, you have a higher chance of developing it. The same applies to bipolar disorder or depression. 

Some experts say that autism and bipolar disorder activate specific genes in astrocytes. Astrocytes are star-shaped brain cells that are important components of the central nervous system (CNS). Sometimes, it’s hard to differentiate between autism and bipolar disorder because their symptoms are similar. 

Read on to find out how their symptoms overlap each other.

Overlapping Symptoms of Autism and Bipolar Disorder

Studies show that a huge percentage of individuals with bipolar disorder are misdiagnosed with autism and vice versa. This is because the two conditions share similar symptoms. Therefore, it can be hard for doctors to tell the difference.

To establish whether you have autism, bipolar, or a combination of both conditions, the psychiatrist assesses how often the symptoms occur. They also assess how long the symptoms occur and the severity.

For instance, it’s normal for you to talk too much or lose focus easily if you have autism. But when you suddenly start experiencing high energy episodes, acting inappropriately, and going for days without sleep, you likely have bipolar I disorder. 

Research by the National Library of Medicine suggests that young adults diagnosed with both bipolar disorder and autism have higher chances of:

• Experiencing mood symptoms earlier
• Being easily distracted 
• Developing racing thoughts
• Being socially withdrawn 

Due to the overlapping symptoms in both conditions, a doctor may mistakenly diagnose you with autism instead of bipolar disorder, and vice versa. Below are some of the similarities in behavioral differences of the two conditions:

• Being prone to accidents 
• Difficulty in organizing thoughts 
• Excessive talking
• Easily distracted
• Getting in trouble or doing risky things
• Mood swings (either elevated or depressing)
• Extreme irritability
• Hostility behaviors
• Tendency of repeating certain activities or behaviors
• Sleeplessness