Research indicates that the majority of autistic individuals have sensory sensitivities. These can manifest as either hypersensitivity or hyposensitivity. Hypersensitivity refers to an exaggerated response to sensory input, making certain sensations overwhelming or distressing. For example, a...
Do you ever wonder why your child's occupational therapist keeps mentioning something called "heavy work?" Well, we're here to give you the lowdown on this interesting approach that can work wonders for your autistic child's sensory regulation.
What exactly is "heavy work?"
Heavy work refers to a...
Autism and selective eating - we know firsthand how frustrating it can be when your child refuses to try a new food or rejects anything resembling a fruit or vegetable.
Research tells us that selective eating in autistic children often stems from sensory sensitivities. It's not just about taste -...
We all want the holidays to be a time of celebration and joy! You might have holiday traditions, social gatherings and exciting surprises planned. But if you're a parent of an autistic child, you know that the holiday season can bring its fair share of stress. You and your child might be anxious...
It is well-known that massage therapy has many benefits. A massage can promote relaxation and stress reduction by releasing endorphins and reducing cortisol levels. This can result in decreased anxiety, improved mood, and better sleep quality. Massage therapy also enhances circulation, helping to...
Have you ever heard of Central Auditory Processing Disorder or CAPD? It's a condition that affects people's ability to understand speech when there's a large amount of background noise, even if their hearing is perfectly fine. Background noises can include someone tapping a pencil in the...
Let's dive into the fascinating topic of sensory processing differences in autistic children. You might have noticed that many autistic kids have unique sensory difficulties. There are many theories why that shed light on the subject. One such theory is the "Intense World Syndrome," suggesting...
Does your child struggle to understand you in noisy environments? Even if their hearing is normal, they may have difficulty processing speech and sound, especially in places like the classroom or playground. This condition is known as auditory processing disorder (APD).
Auditory processing...
If you have an autistic child, you probably understand that your child's perception of the world is unique. This is because sensory processing differences are highly prevalent among these remarkable kids. Some children may be hypersensitive, actively avoiding certain sensory stimuli, while others...
Amidst the hustle and bustle of daily life, finding moments of calm and relaxation is essential, especially for individuals on the autism spectrum. One such tool that holds immense value is the sensory walk—a therapeutic walk that invites individuals to engage their five senses.
Whether you...
The transition of sending your child off to college is a mix of excitement and anxiety. As a parent, you want to ensure that your child has everything they need to navigate dorm life and live independently. However, typical packing lists may not cover all the specific needs of your autistic...