How to explain autism to siblings means using clear words, real examples, and roles they can follow. Say what autism is, what it affects, and how the family helps. Keep it short. Invite questions. What to say today Start with strengths and needs. “Your brother learns best with...

Visual Supports in Autism Communication use pictures, symbols, words, or schedules to make messages clear and predictable. They reduce language load, support attention, and help transitions. Families in our North Carolina sessions report fewer behaviors and faster follow-through when...

How to avoid burnout as a special needs parent starts with routines that protect sleep, shared caregiving, and written support plans. Caregiver studies show high stress and depressive symptoms are common in parents of autistic and other neurodivergent children; social support reduces...

Sensory clothing for autism is apparel designed to reduce irritation and support regulation. Common features include soft fabrics, flat seams, tagless labels, seamless socks, and optional gentle compression. These choices target sensory hyper or hyposensitivity described in autism,...

What are the do’s and don’ts of autism? Do use clear, literal language, give processing time, reduce sensory load, and reinforce specific skills. Don’t force eye contact, don’t touch without consent, don’t use sarcasm or vague hints, and don’t punish harmless stimming....

What is the average lifespan of a person with autism? There is no single number. Estimates vary by study and by co-occurring conditions. A UK matched-cohort analysis estimated life expectancy for autistic adults without learning disability at about 74.6 years for men and 76.8 years...

The term high-functioning autism was commonly used in the past to describe individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) who had average or above-average intelligence and fewer language delays. Today, this term is no longer used in clinical diagnosis due to changes in diagnostic...

Do Autistic Kids Love Their Mom? Yes, autistic children are capable of love and emotional attachment, including strong bonds with their mothers. Research on Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) shows that differences in communication and social expression do not reduce a child’s ability...

Autism diagnosis rates have been rising across the United States, and North Carolina is no exception. But how does North Carolina compare with its neighboring states — like Georgia, Tennessee, South Carolina, and Virginia — when it comes to autism diagnoses?  In this article,...

In 2025, public schools across North Carolina continue to serve a growing number of students with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).  As prevalence rates rise, understanding how these students are identified, supported, and educated within the state’s public school system is...