How Ben’s Blue Bags are Changing First Responders’ Approach
One Indiana firefighter is taking meaningful steps to bring greater awareness and support to individuals on the autism spectrum, especially in emergency situations where communication and comfort are critical. Ben’s Blue Bags are specially designed bags filled with sensory toys and tools that help first responders better treat and connect with patients on the autism […]
A Look at Various Medicines for Autism in Children
Finding the right support for a child with autism can feel overwhelming, especially when it comes to understanding medical options. While there is no cure for autism, certain medications may help manage specific symptoms like anxiety, irritability, or attention difficulties. Without further ado, let’s explore the various medicines sometimes prescribed for children with autism and […]
How Overstimulation Impacts Children with Autism Daily
Children with autism often experience the world in a way that’s more intense and overwhelming than their neurotypical peers. Everyday sounds, lights, textures, or even social interactions can quickly become too much, leading to sensory overstimulation. Once this happens, it can affect their behavior, mood, and ability to function. Recognizing the signs of overstimulation is […]
Understanding Noise Sensitivity in Children with Autism
Noise sensitivity is a common sensory issue among children with autism. Understanding how sensory processing works in these individuals helps clarify the impact of this sensitivity on their daily lives. Individuals with autism often process sensory information differently from those without the condition. They may struggle to filter out irrelevant sounds or distractions. Based on […]
The Role of Sensory Seeking in Autistic Kids’ Behavior
Children with autism often engage in sensory seeking behaviors, which are actions taken to fulfill sensory needs and experiences. These behaviors frequently arise during free play activities and when children initiate stimuli during various home activities. Sensory seekers are often driven by the desire to engage multiple senses, demonstrating a multi-sensory nature in their behaviors. […]
Autism with ADHD Symptoms: An Overview
Research indicates that autism and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) frequently occur together. Studies from 2022 show that between 50% and 70% of individuals diagnosed with autism also exhibit ADHD symptoms. This high prevalence underscores the significance of recognizing the co-occurrence of these two developmental conditions. Challenges in Diagnosis Diagnosing autism with ADHD symptoms poses various challenges […]
Identifying the Physical Signs of Autism in Children
Identifying the early indicators of autism in children is crucial for timely intervention and support. These signs can manifest before a child reaches preschool age and often become more pronounced as they enter early schooling. Early signs of autism can sometimes become evident in infants and young children. These indicators can arise before a child […]
The Implications of High Masking in Women with Autism
Masking in autism refers to the conscious or unconscious effort made by individuals, particularly women, to hide or suppress their autistic traits in social situations. This behavior often involves mimicking neurotypical peers and adopting socially acceptable behaviors to fit in. Masking can include various actions, such as imitating facial expressions, controlling movements, and rehearsing conversations. […]
Impact of Medicaid ABA Cuts on Indiana’s Autism Community
Families of children with autism in Indiana are confronting alarming challenges following the announcement of major changes to Medicaid coverage for Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy. These changes—introduced without input from families, clinicians, or providers—signal a troubling shift in how the state plans to support children on the autism spectrum. The modifications include: “These policies […]
Understanding Selective Mutism in ASD
Selective mutism is classified as an anxiety disorder in the DSM-5, which was released in 2013. This condition is characterized by an individual’s inability to speak in specific social situations while still being able to communicate in others. It primarily affects children and is relatively uncommon, with less than 1% of children diagnosed with the […]
