Language development in individuals with autism can vary widely. In the past, there was a belief that children with autism do not acquire new language after the age of 4. However, more recent studies have challenged this notion, demonstrating that with appropriate interventions, children with autism can indeed learn to verbally speak. Autistic children may […]

Speech-language pathologists (SLPs) play a vital role in the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of various communication disorders, including those with non-verbal autism. They work with individuals of all ages, from infants to older adults, to address speech, language, social communication, cognitive-communication, and swallowing difficulties.  With that in mind, what exactly do they do? Let’s find […]

Nonverbal autism refers to a condition where individuals on the autism spectrum have significant difficulties with spoken language. Around 25% to 30% of children with autism may not speak at all, experiencing communication challenges and speech delays.  However, it is important to note that being nonverbal does not mean a refusal to speak. It is […]

There is no one-size-fits-all approach for treating autism spectrum disorder. After all, the most effective therapies and interventions for ASD vary from person to person, as each individual with autism has unique needs and challenges.  However, there are certain strategies and treatments that have shown promise in improving the lives of individuals with autism.  So […]

Eating disorders can affect individuals from various backgrounds and demographics, including those on the autism spectrum. Understanding the link between autism and eating disorders is crucial for recognizing and addressing these challenges.  Additionally, it is important to explore the prevalence of eating disorders specifically in autistic individuals. Research suggests that autistic individuals may be more […]

Children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) tend to experience more food refusal than their typically developing counterparts. In fact, studies have shown that children with ASD refuse approximately 41.7% of the foods offered to them, whereas typically developing children refuse only 18.9% of the foods offered. There are several factors that contribute to food refusal […]

Snacks play a crucial role in meeting the energy and nutritional needs of individuals on the spectrum. Autistic children may have specific dietary requirements, sensory sensitivities, and irregular eating patterns, making snacks an essential component of their overall diet.  In this article, we’re going to explore the best snacks you could give your autistic child. […]

The diet of an autistic child, especially picky eaters, can have a significant impact on their behavior, cognition, and overall functioning. Research suggests that certain nutrient insufficiencies in autistic children may contribute to issues related to brain development, bone growth, and muscle strength.  For example, low calcium and protein levels can affect physical development, balance, […]

Picky eating is a common challenge faced by many children with autism. In fact, a lot of children with autism exhibit some form of food selectivity, leading to a diet that includes fewer dairy products, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains compared to typical children.  These selective eating habits can be attributed to sensory sensitivities, texture […]

Identifying gifted children can be a complex process that requires careful observation and consideration of their behavior and characteristics. This is even more true on autistic children due to the unique changes in their brains. One of the primary methods used to identify gifted children is through simple observation of their behavior. Educational professionals, parents, or […]