The Ultimate Guide to Communicating with Nonverbal Children

best way to communicate with nonverbal children

Communicating with nonverbal children, particularly those with autism, requires patience, creativity, and an understanding of their unique ways of expressing themselves.  While they may not use spoken language, nonverbal children still have thoughts, feelings, and needs they want to share. By recognizing their communication styles and using effective strategies, caregivers, educators, and therapists can foster […]

Navigating the Common Challenges of Raising an Autistic Child

common challenges in parenting an autistic child

Parenting is always a journey filled with learning and adaptation, but raising an autistic child comes with unique challenges that require patience, resilience, and creative problem-solving.  While every child on the autism spectrum is different, many parents encounter common struggles related to communication, hyperactivity, sensory sensitivities, education, and emotional well-being.  Understanding these challenges and developing […]

How Autism Affects Sleep Patterns in Children

sleep patterns in children with autism

Children with autistic spectrum disorders typically experience notable sleep discrepancies compared to their peers. Research indicates that these children sleep for 17-43 minutes less each day than contemporary controls from 30 months to 11 years. The reduction in total sleep is primarily attributed to changes in night-time sleep rather than daytime sleep duration. Predictors of […]

7 Ways You Can Support Your Autistic Child in Social Situations

ways you can support your autistic child in social situations

Helping an autistic child navigate social situations can be challenging, but with patience, understanding, and the right strategies, you can support them in building meaningful connections and gaining confidence in social interactions.  Every autistic child is unique, with their own set of strengths and challenges, so it’s essential to tailor your approach to their specific […]

What Causes Autism Spectrum Disorder in Kids

what causes autism spectrum disorder in kids

Every child is unique, with their own way of seeing and interacting with the world. But for some kids, things like communication, social interactions, and certain behaviors can feel a little different. This is often linked to autism spectrum disorder.  Parents and caregivers may wonder: What causes autism in children?  While there isn’t one simple […]

IU’s Ghana Study Abroad Experience

IU's Ghana Study Abroad Experience

Tina O’Neal, an expert in urban and special education, is leading six urban education students on an inaugural short-term study abroad program to Ghana during the last two weeks of May. This new partnership with the Indiana University School of Education in Indianapolis, the University of Ghana, and the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and […]

Support for Diverse Learning Needs

Support for Diverse Learning Needs

In response to the growing demand for specialized educational and behavioral support for students, the Lake Union Education Department has taken significant steps to enhance its offerings. This initiative included creating a dedicated position and hiring a qualified professional to address the specific needs of students requiring extra assistance. Stepping into the new role of […]

Struggles Over Special Education: Indiana’s Legislative Setback

Struggles Over Special Education: Indiana's Legislative Setback

Legislation intended to help families of students with disabilities navigate disputes over special education services with Indiana school districts appears to have failed in the General Assembly. This legislative initiative aimed to create a more equitable process for parents seeking to secure the educational services their children need. When schools and families disagree over special […]

Support for Special Education: ESA Enrollment Success

Support for Special Education: ESA Enrollment Success

Indiana’s Education Scholarship Accounts (ESAs) have reached full enrollment for the first time since the program launched in 2022. This milestone was announced by the Office of the Indiana State Treasurer, marking a significant achievement for a program designed to assist students who require special education services. The announcement came just weeks after the office […]

How Autism Affects Relationships

how autism affects relationships

Navigating relationships can be a unique and sometimes challenging experience for individuals on the autism spectrum. Understanding the impact of autism on relationships is crucial for fostering understanding and creating a supportive environment. In this article, we will explore how autism can affect relationships. Challenges in Adult Relationships Building and maintaining relationships can pose unique […]