Going to the Doctor/Dentist

Making Life Easier By Pamelazita Buschbacher, Ed.D. Doctor and dentist visits can be very stressful for young children. Routine check-ups can cause anxiety, fear and distress in toddlers and preschoolers. Some common fears for young children include: • separation from you; • pain and discomfort; • stranger anxiety; and • unfamiliar procedures and people. The following tips will help ensure that these visits are easier for you and your child.  Schedule smartly. When you […]

How Do I Protect My Wandering Loved One?

Wandering and elopement behaviors can pose unique safety risks for children and adults on the autism spectrum. Luckily, there are many accessible tools to help keep these individuals safe. Below, Milestones Autism Resources Program Director Beth Thompson, MSSA, LSW highlights some great tips and resources to utilize if your loved one is one of the many individuals with ASD who are prone to wandering. Take advantage of free resources – The National Autism Association is currently […]

Autism in the Teen Years: What to Expect, How to Help

Marina Sarris Interactive Autism Network at Kennedy Krieger Institute What parent doesn’t watch their “tween” become a teen without a twinge of anxiety? Factor autism into the equation, and parents may well wonder how the physical and hormonal changes of adolescence will affect their child on the spectrum. How will typical teenage rebellion look in someone who struggles with behavioral control? What will it be like traversing the social minefield of high school for someone […]

10 Back To School Tips For Kids With Autism & Special Needs

Article by Ilana Danneman – Pediatric Physical Therapist 1. Do your research First, find out as much as you can about your child’s next year. Will they need extra support? Is the school aware of their challenges? Can you meet with your child’s teacher(s) before school starts so you can set a game plan that is comfortable for everyone? 2. Dress for Success Does your school have a dress code? Makes sure you include the […]

Prenatal Tdap Vaccination Not Associated with Autism Spectrum Disorder: Study

A study of women who received a Tdap vaccination during pregnancy found no increase in risk that their children would later be diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder. The study, “Prenatal Tetanus, Diphtheria, Acellular Pertussis Vaccination and Autism Spectrum Disorder,” will be published in the September 2018 issue of Pediatrics. Researchers reviewed the records of 81,993 pairs of diverse pregnant women and their children who were born between Jan. 1, 2011, and Dec. 31, 2014, at […]