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...

Can autism get worse if untreated? Autism is a lifelong neurodevelopmental condition. The core diagnosis does not “spread,” but without support, challenges can compound. Can autism get worse if untreated? Unaddressed needs can lead to more anxiety, problem behavior, and reduced...

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...

The prevalence of autism in North Carolina has risen sharply over the past two decades, with recent estimates indicating that about 1 in 39 children are now diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).  As the number of children diagnosed with autism grows, the demand for...

Over the past two decades, there has been a remarkable rise in autism diagnoses across the United States, and North Carolina is no exception. The prevalence of autism in the state has increased by nearly 300% since 2000, reflecting a shift in how the condition is understood,...

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental condition with rising prevalence across the United States. In North Carolina, understanding how autism diagnoses vary by geography—especially between urban and rural areas—is critical for shaping effective public health...

When your child starts ABA therapy, you’ll hear a mix of new words, strategies, and clinical language. It can feel like a lot — but once you understand the basics, everything becomes much easier to follow. Here’s a parent-friendly breakdown of ABA terms, presented in a new order to...

ABA therapy can make a huge difference in a child’s growth, but stopping too early can interrupt progress. Every child’s journey is unique, yet ending therapy before essential skills are fully developed may create challenges at home, school, and in daily routines. ...