Sensory Challenges in Children

by Lisa Cohn When I asked my son, Michael, age 10, to explain what it feels like to have “sensory processing disorder, (SPD)” he said that the sound of a food blender sends him sprinting into a different room; the feel of a wool sweater against his skin “is like a bomb to me.” For Moira, age 10, loud noises are difficult.   And it’s hard for her to sit still for more than an hour […]

Should You Explain the Diagnosis to the Child?

BY: Tony Attwood, Ph.D. The immediate answer is yes. Clinical experience indicates that it is extremely important that the diagnosis is explained as soon as possible and preferably before inappropriate compensatory mechanisms are developed. The child is then more likely to achieve self-acceptance, without unfair comparisons with other children, and be less likely to develop signs of an anxiety disorder, depression or conduct disorder. When and How do you Explain the Diagnosis? At what age […]

The Challenge of Physical Fitness for People with Autism

Marina Sarris Interactive Autism Network ian@kennedykrieger.org You’ve probably seen the headlines: studies say that children and adults with autism are at risk for an inactive lifestyle and obesity. While the reasons are subject to debate, it’s clear that people with ASD often face unique challenges to physical fitness. The core features of autism – social, communication and behavior problems – can make joining a game of kickball at recess or playing tag with neighborhood kids […]

How to Minimize Mealtime Stress for Special Needs Children & Families

Studies have shown that sharing regular meals as a family has many benefits for children and their parents or caregivers. Participating in a mealtime ritual has been linked to stronger family bonds, healthier habits, better grades, and overall smarter choices. Making time to eat regular meals together and creating a comfortable dining space in your home is especially important for the safety and overall health of special needs children, too. Children’s mealtime behavior can be […]

66 Autistic Children Treated to Back-to-School Shoes by Grant from the Thomas Davis Foundation

Children at Springbrook Autism Behavioral Health receive free shoes for Back to School Thomas Davis Defending Dreams Foundation provides $4,300 Back-to-School shopping spree for children in residential autism treatment program. GREENVILLE, S.C – More than 60 children in Springbrook Autism Behavioral Health’s residential treatment program were treated to a shopping spree to pick out shoes for back to school, thanks to a $4,300 donation from the Thomas Davis Defending Dreams Foundation. “We were so touched […]