Ssi for Children with Autism
What Is SSI? Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a federal program administered by the Social Security Administration that provides monthly payments to individuals with disabilities who have limited income and resources. Children under 18 with autism spectrum disorder may qualify if they meet specific medical and financial criteria. The program is designed to help families […]
Autism Laws in Columbus
Georgia’s Autism Insurance Mandate Georgia’s Ava’s Law, enacted in 2015, requires health insurance plans to cover the diagnosis and treatment of autism spectrum disorder for children under six. This includes coverage for Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy, speech therapy, and occupational therapy. While the age restriction is more limited than some states, it provides crucial […]
7 Essential ABA Therapy Strategies to Improve Communication and Behavior
Discrete Trial Training (DTT) DTT breaks skills into small, manageable steps and teaches them through structured repetition. Each trial has a clear beginning (instruction), middle (response), and end (reinforcement). For communication, DTT might involve teaching a child to request a preferred item by presenting the item, prompting a verbal or gestural request, and reinforcing successful […]
How to Manage Negative Behavior in Children with Autism
Understanding the Function of Behavior All behavior serves a purpose. Children with autism may engage in challenging behaviors to communicate needs they cannot express verbally, to escape overwhelming situations, to gain access to preferred items, or to regulate sensory input. Before trying to change a behavior, it is essential to understand what the child is […]
Autism Schools in Massachusetts
Massachusetts has one of the strongest special education systems in the United States, offering a range of educational options for children with autism. From public school inclusion programs to specialized private schools, understanding your options can help you find the best fit for your child. Types of School Settings for Autistic Students Massachusetts offers several […]
Best Autism Blogs
Blogs by Autistic Adults Some of the most valuable perspectives come from autistic adults sharing their experiences. Musings of an Aspie offers thoughtful reflections on daily life, relationships, and self-advocacy. Thinking Person’s Guide to Autism features contributions from autistic individuals, parents, and professionals. Neurodivergent Rebel focuses on autism acceptance and late diagnosis experiences. These firsthand […]
Autism Home Support Services
In-Home ABA Therapy In-home ABA therapy brings evidence-based behavioral intervention directly into the child’s natural environment. Therapists work with children in the setting where skills will actually be used, making generalization easier. Sessions can focus on daily living skills like dressing, eating, and hygiene, as well as communication, social interaction, and behavior management. In-home therapy […]
Best ABA Therapy Podcasts
Podcasts for Parents Several podcasts specifically address parents navigating ABA therapy. The Autism Helper Podcast covers practical strategies for daily life and therapy. Turn Autism Around with Mary Barbera offers actionable advice from a BCBA and autism parent. All Autism Talk from the Autism Science Foundation discusses research in accessible language. These shows help parents […]
Autism Therapy in Different Settings
Clinic-Based Therapy Clinic-based ABA therapy takes place in a dedicated facility designed for therapeutic work. These environments offer controlled settings with minimal distractions, specialized equipment, and opportunities for social interaction with peers. Clinic settings are particularly beneficial for children who need intensive therapy, structured social skills groups, or access to multiple therapists and specialists in […]
Autism Stimming Behaviors
Visual Stimming Visual stimming involves repetitive behaviors related to sight. Common examples include staring at spinning objects, watching lights flicker, waving fingers in front of the eyes, and lining up toys or objects. Some children are drawn to certain colors or patterns. Visual stimming often occurs because the child finds particular visual input calming or […]