4 mins read

Autism and School: A Parent Advocacy Guide

Whenever possible, describe concerns with concrete examples. “Lunch is difficult” gives the team limited information. A more useful description might be: “During lunch, the noise level increases, and my child covers their ears, leaves the table, and is sometimes unable to eat.” Specific observations make autism advocacy more objective. They also help the team identify […]

6 mins read

ABA Therapy Progress: What Families Can Expect

Prompts provide temporary assistance and should be reduced as the child becomes more independent. For families exploring what to expect from ABA therapy, sessions may look different depending on the child’s age and developmental needs. Young children may learn through play, songs, movement, books, sensory activities, and everyday routines. An activity may appear playful while […]

6 mins read

Why Your Feelings Are Okay

The 5 Stages of Grief in Autism Are a Framework, Not a Checklist The familiar 5 stages of grief include denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance. Experts emphasize that parents may move between these emotions rather than experience them in a predictable order. A parent may experience several stages at once, skip one entirely, or […]

4 mins read

My Child Was Diagnosed with Autism: What to Know

Parents wondering, “My child has autism, now what?” should feel comfortable asking providers how they select goals, measure progress, respond to distress, involve caregivers, and respect each child’s preferences. You May Wish You Had Asked More Questions—But You Can Ask Them Now When parents first say, “My child was diagnosed with autism,” they may assume […]

5 mins read

Parenting a Child with Autism: 12 Practical Tips

Try to minimize unexpected changes when possible. When a change is necessary, prepare your child in advance using a visual schedule, countdown, social story, calendar, or simple explanation. 6. Reinforce the Skills You Want to Encourage Positive reinforcement is a core strategy used in parenting a child with autism and in evidence-based behavioral support. It […]

4 mins read

7 Steps for Explaining Autism to Friends and Family

Autism spectrum disorder is a lifelong neurological and developmental condition that often becomes noticeable in early childhood. It can affect communication, social interaction, behavior, routines, sensory processing, and emotional regulation. Because autism exists on a spectrum, support needs can range from mild to significant. Autism does not look the same in every person. Some individuals […]

4 mins read

Making Summer in 2026 Safe, Happy, and Meaningful for Autistic Children

Summer Looks Different for Every Family Summer always feels like it should be magical and happy. The days are longer, the sun lingers in the sky, and everyone seems to be chasing memories: pool days, vacations, backyard laughter. But for families with autistic children, summer can feel more layered than that. The break from school […]