The importance of Life SkillsLife skills are essential for everyone, but helping children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) learn these skills is especially crucial as it can help prepare them for the day-to-day challenges of participating in their community and workplace, and feeling independent at home. Life skills also serve the important function of preparing […]
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Planning for your kids’ future can be daunting, but parents of children with special needs must take a few extra steps to make sure their children will be taken care of in adulthood. The list below gives you an overview of the topics you should start thinking about and planning for. Be sure to fully […]
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Representation of neurodiverse characters on screen matters because it shows all kids that they are an integral part of our culture and not separate from it. Everyone deserves to see affirming visions of themselves in the culture around them. Atypical (2017-2021) is one example of a show streaming on Netflix right now that attempts to […]
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Planning for your kids’ future can be daunting, but parents of children with special needs must take a few extra steps to make sure their children will be taken care of in adulthood. If your child is or will be receiving government benefits, be sure that any money you bequeath in your will or any […]
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Children with autism and other special needs frequently engage in challenging behaviors, such as aggression, self-injurious behavior (SIB), and property destruction. These behaviors can range from skin-picking and slapping to head-banging, self-biting, punching, and kicking. Challenging behaviors negatively affect the whole family, and parents are struggling to properly care for loved ones who engage in […]
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Although at the present time, COVID-19 has disrupted the level of regular community activities schools are able to implement, this article is to highlight the importance of community involvement for the special needs student population. Community activities and recreation can be particularly important for the mental and physical health of children with autism. These activities […]
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For special needs children, learning daily living skills such as self-care, personal hygiene, laundry, cooking, and cleaning is fundamental to developing a greater level of independence in adulthood. These skills will help prepare them for future adult situations in the home, community, and workplace. But, because they take more time and effort for a special needs […]
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A parent’s perspectiveI am the stepparent of a developmentally delayed 11-year-old with autism, and while it’s not easy in the best of times, right now, it is a struggle. There are no easy answers to this emotionally and financially unsustainable situation. But you are not alone. For what it’s worth, here are some things that […]
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Attending Individualized Education Program (IEP) meetings is one of the important ways that you help guide and monitor your child’s progress in school. The more you know about IEPs, the more you can contribute to a positive, constructive conversation with your child’s team at school. Being prepared can help you go into the meeting feeling […]
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