Pushing Back Against the Stigma Surrounding Autism
Autism is a wide spectrum, meaning that there is not a one-size-fits-all diagnosis. This makes autism difficult to identify, especially for parents or caregivers who do not work in a professional healthcare setting. If your life has been touched by someone with autism, you know how special and unique these individuals are. They illuminate our […]
Why A Clinical ASD Diagnosis Does Not Always Mean Educational Eligibility for Special Services
A clinical diagnosis for Autism Spectrum Disorder can help your child’s life in a number of ways. For one thing, it adds clarity. With a proper diagnosis given, parents and teachers can better understand the child’s behaviors and how to support them. It can help your child better understand themselves and the way they navigate […]
How To Encourage Empathy in Kids
Empathy is an essential part of healthy social relationships. Children who demonstrate empathy will find it easier to form strong friendships, relate to others, and effectively communicate to both other children and adults. While empathy plays a key role in socialization, many children with neuropsychological or neurodevelopmental differences struggle to display empathy. They may be […]
COVID-19: Special Education Services and Resources for Students on the Spectrum
According to a recent PBS report,(1) around 14% of public school students in the United States are given regular special education services. With Maryland public schools closed until at least May 15th,(2) parents of students with autism spectrum disorder have been facing unique struggles. Many families have expressed concern regarding the potential for regression or […]
Why Are Some Children With ASD Overlooked In Studies About Autism
Our understanding of autism has changed greatly in recent years. Instead of being a singular disorder, autism is now understood to be a spectrum condition with symptoms that vary wildly from person to person. While ASD always plays a significant role in any person’s life, the research on autism tends to focus on those children […]
Terminology to Know As a Parent of a Child With Special Needs
If your child has been recently diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder, or if you’ve been researching information about ASD, you’ve no doubt come across some unfamiliar and even confusing terms related to the condition. It is important for you to feel empowered as an advocate for your child. Familiarizing yourself with the most commonly heard […]
Dispelling 8 Myths About ASD
Autism spectrum disorder is not recognized as a rare condition, with 1 in 55 Maryland children receiving an ASD diagnosis early on in their lives. In fact, Maryland has the second highest rates of autism spectrum disorder in the country, likely due to an increase in physician awareness of the signs of ASD. Despite this […]
5 Resources in Maryland For Parents of Children With ASD
If you have a child with autism spectrum disorder, you can likely clearly recall the day of the diagnosis. Parents who learn that their child has special needs or differences often quickly feel a wide range of emotions, from confusion and fear to generally feeling completely overwhelmed. Luckily, Maryland has a wealth of resources to […]
Who Is Qualified to Diagnose Autism Spectrum Disorder?
If you suspect your child may have autism spectrum disorder, your first plan of action will be to seek out a highly-qualified professional for potential diagnosis and subsequent therapies. In 2018, the CDC determined that Maryland has the second highest rate of autism spectrum diagnosis in the country, with 1 in 55 children having been […]