For many autistic individuals, the world can feel louder, brighter, and more intense. Overstimulation, or sensory overload, occurs when the brain receives more information than it can comfortably handle. Everyday settings—like busy stores, loud classrooms, or even fluorescent...

The idea that autistic people have a “sixth sense” is common—but it’s not about supernatural abilities. Many autistic individuals experience heightened sensory perception, meaning they notice details that others might miss. This can include sensitivity to sound, light, touch, or even...

Independence looks different for every individual, and this includes people on the autism spectrum. While some autistic individuals may require daily support, many can learn to care for themselves and live independently with proper guidance and practice. Developing self-care...

Parents often ask whether autistic children understand punishment, and the answer depends on how it’s used. Traditional punishment—like scolding, grounding, or taking away items—may not effectively teach cause and effect to an autistic child. Instead of understanding why something...

When a child is diagnosed with autism, one of the first questions parents ask is, “Where do we start?” The most common first step is Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). It’s often recommended because it focuses on building real-life skills and supporting positive behavior in everyday...

Keeping an autistic child busy can sometimes feel like a challenge, but with the right strategies, it can become an enjoyable and rewarding experience for both you and your child. The goal is to create activities that are engaging, structured, and sensory-friendly. By incorporating...

We all know that life can get overwhelming sometimes, and for individuals with autism, certain sensory experiences can make things even tougher. Finding the right calming items can be a game-changer. These tools help reduce stress, provide comfort, and offer a way to...

Repetitive behaviors, such as hand-flapping, rocking, repeating phrases, or lining up objects, are common in individuals with autism or other developmental disorders. While these behaviors can sometimes be harmless or soothing, they can also interfere with daily life and social...

Key Highlights Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) develops through a combination of genetics and environmental factors. Key environmental contributors may include advanced parental age, prenatal exposure to air pollution, and pesticide contact. Maternal health during pregnancy...

You might have heard people say that individuals with autism are often “geniuses” or have unusually high IQs. But is that really true? The connection between autism and intelligence is more complex than it sounds — and it’s one that researchers have been studying for years. Let’s...