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
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
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
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,
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.
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
