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Why Children on the Autism Spectrum Show Repetitive Behaviors
Repetitive behaviors are one of the most recognized characteristics of children on the autism spectrum. These behaviors—often referred to as repetitive or restricted behaviors—can include hand-flapping, rocking, lining up objects, repeating words or phrases, or following rigid routines. While these actions may appear puzzling or concerning to caregivers and educators, they play an important role…
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Importance of Early Intervention in Autism: What Parents Should Expect
Early intervention is one of the most powerful factors influencing long-term outcomes for children on the autism spectrum. Communication, social interaction, behavior, and sensory processing are all impacted by autism spectrum disorder (ASD), a neurodevelopmental disorder. While autism is a lifelong condition, research in developmental psychology and neuroscience consistently shows that timely, appropriate intervention during…
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How to Talk About Autism Respectfully and Inclusively
The way we talk about autism plays a powerful role in shaping attitudes, beliefs, and behaviours toward autistic individuals. Language can either promote dignity, understanding, and inclusion or unintentionally reinforce stigma and misunderstanding. As awareness about autism increases, parents, educators, caregivers, and society at large need to communicate in ways that are respectful, accurate, and…
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Supporting Siblings of Children with Autism: What Parents Need to Know
When a child is diagnosed with autism, the entire family is impacted—not just the parents, but siblings as well. Brothers and sisters of children with autism often grow up in environments that demand empathy, adaptability, and emotional resilience from a very young age. While much of the attention understandably centres on the child with autism,…
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Creating Autism-Friendly Spaces at Home and School
The physical and emotional environment plays a crucial role in shaping behaviour, learning, and psychological well-being. For autistic individuals, differences in sensory processing, communication, and emotional regulation make environmental design especially important. Creating autism-friendly spaces at home and school is not about eliminating challenges but about reducing unnecessary stressors and fostering safety, predictability, and inclusion.…
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Understanding Routines and Transitions for Autistic Children
Routines and transitions play a central role in the emotional and psychological well-being of autistic children. For many children on the autism spectrum, predictability provides a sense of safety and control in a world that can often feel overwhelming and unpredictable. From a psychological perspective, difficulties with changes in routine and transitions are not behavioural…
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Autism and Employment: Creating Opportunities for Adults on the Spectrum
Employment is more than a means of financial independence; it is closely linked to identity, self-worth, social inclusion, and psychological well-being. For adults on the autism spectrum, however, accessing and sustaining meaningful employment remains a significant challenge. Despite having valuable skills, unique cognitive strengths, and strong work ethics, autistic adults experience disproportionately high rates of…
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Challenges Faced by Autistic Teenagers During School Transition
Challenges Faced by Autistic Teenagers During School Transition The transition from one school level to another, such as moving from middle school to high school or from school to post-secondary education, is a significant developmental milestone for adolescents. For autistic teenagers, however, this period often presents heightened psychological, emotional, and social challenges. Differences in social…