How to Take Action for Families Affected by Autism

How to Take Action for Families Affected by Autism

April is Autism Awareness Month, so you might be wondering how to take action for families affected by autism. The current rate is one in every 36 children in the U.S., which basically puts one child with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in every two classrooms throughout America.

Because autism spectrum disorder is a disorder and not just a different way of thinking or experiencing the world, raising awareness for this disorder and taking action for those affected by this disorder is of critical importance. (more…)

Autism Resources for Families In and Around Sacramento

Autism Resources for Families In and Around Sacramento

Autism Resources for Families in the Sacramento area

Do you have someone in your family who has been diagnosed with autism (ASD) or Asperger Syndrome (AS)? Are you looking for autism resources in or around the Sacramento area? Perhaps you are considering moving to Sacramento or its suburbs and need to get acquainted with autism resources in the area. If you or someone you know is looking for resources related to autism and/or Asperger Syndrome in the Sacramento region, this article can help you get started. (more…)

Handcuffed to Home

Handcuffed to Home

Staying home can be a comfort. Staying home rather than going out with a child with autism can be confining. The definition of housebound is unable to leave one’s house typically due to illness or old age. Parents of individuals with autism, especially severe autism, often find themselves staying home but not because they are ill or aged. The fear of a public meltdown can make a family want to stay home. Some children and teens on the spectrum don’t have a sense of danger, and that can cause parents to remain in the confines of home. Social phobias and inappropriate behavior are more reasons why mom or dad won’t take their child out. Being housebound when you don’t want to be isn’t fun. (more…)

Stress Relief Tips for Special Needs Parents

Stress Relief Tips for Special Needs Parents

Parents of children with special needs live with a high level of stress. When stress becomes a constant in our lives, we must find ways to combat it and reduce it or else our health can suffer. But the conundrum for special needs parents is that given their responsibilities, it’s nearly impossible to find time to take care of themselves and focus sharply on stress reduction. And sometimes, trying to plan for a parental recess leads to more stress!

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Trick-or-Treating on Halloween With Your Special Needs Child

Trick-or-Treating on Halloween With Your Special Needs Child

Ghosts, goblins, and ghouls: it’s almost Halloween time again and that means trick-or-treating is around the corner! For special needs kids, trick-or-treating can literally be a scary event. Any child or teen with autism may have sensory challenges that can be triggered by costumed trick-or-treaters showing up randomly at the door.

Alternatively, kids with autism spectrum disorder may have a difficult time with the social norms that accompany trick-or-treating routines. Whether kids with ASD are staying home or venturing out on Halloween night, younger and older kids with autism may need guidance experiencing this holiday. (more…)