Autism Spectrum Disorders: Most Popular Articles
These articles are the most popular over the last month.
Symptoms of Autism
Autistic people may have a range of issues, including physical, intellectual, psychological and emotional differences.
Autistic people may have a range of issues, including physical, intellectual, psychological and emotional differences.
What Causes Autism?
This question haunts parents and creates tremendous anxiety. There are few definitive answers at this point, but there is a good deal of information available to help dispel myths and better assess risks.
This question haunts parents and creates tremendous anxiety. There are few definitive answers at this point, but there is a good deal of information available to help dispel myths and better assess risks.
Early Signs of Autism
What are the early signs of autism? With so many headlines about autism, many parents are worried about their child's development. How do you know whether a delay or difference is really significant? How do you decide whether your child should see a professional? Here are some of the red flag symptoms to look for.
What are the early signs of autism? With so many headlines about autism, many parents are worried about their child's development. How do you know whether a delay or difference is really significant? How do you decide whether your child should see a professional? Here are some of the red flag symptoms to look for.
Adults & Asperger Syndrome
Asperger syndrome, a very high functioning form of autism, may not be diagnosed until adulthood. Could you or an adult in your life have Asperger syndrome? How can you find out? What should you do next?
Asperger syndrome, a very high functioning form of autism, may not be diagnosed until adulthood. Could you or an adult in your life have Asperger syndrome? How can you find out? What should you do next?
High Functioning Autism
: What Is "High Functioning Autism?" A developmental pediatrician says our child has high functioning
: What Is "High Functioning Autism?" A developmental pediatrician says our child has high functioning
Types of Autism
Autism is a "spectrum disorder," meaning you can be a little autistic or very autistic. But the diagnoses
Autism is a "spectrum disorder," meaning you can be a little autistic or very autistic. But the diagnoses
Diagnosis: Asperger Syndrome
Could you or someone you love have Asperger Syndrome? How would you find out? Learn how experts diagnose Asperger Syndrome in adults.
Could you or someone you love have Asperger Syndrome? How would you find out? Learn how experts diagnose Asperger Syndrome in adults.
Spouse with Asperger Syndrome
Marriage to a spouse with Asperger syndrome is challenging. It's hard to know whether behaviors that appear rude or thoughtless are really part of the disorder -- and it's tough to know how to respond. Drs. Bob Naseef and Cindy Ariel take on this complex issue.
Marriage to a spouse with Asperger syndrome is challenging. It's hard to know whether behaviors that appear rude or thoughtless are really part of the disorder -- and it's tough to know how to respond. Drs. Bob Naseef and Cindy Ariel take on this complex issue.
What Is PDD-NOS?
Often, children with social and communication delays are diagnosed with something called PDD-NOS - pervasive developmental disorder not otherwise specified. What exactly is PDD-NOS?
Often, children with social and communication delays are diagnosed with something called PDD-NOS - pervasive developmental disorder not otherwise specified. What exactly is PDD-NOS?
Is It Asperger Syndrome?
What is Asperger syndrome? Asperger syndrome is a high functioning form of autism. Could you or someone you love be diagnosable with Asperger syndrome?
What is Asperger syndrome? Asperger syndrome is a high functioning form of autism. Could you or someone you love be diagnosable with Asperger syndrome?
Top Autism Facts
Parents of children with autism quickly discover the top autism facts. But what about in-laws, teachers,
Parents of children with autism quickly discover the top autism facts. But what about in-laws, teachers,
Checklist of Autism Symptoms
Does your child have these autism symptoms? Learn more about specific symptoms, and determine if your child might benefit from an autism screening or diagnosis.
Does your child have these autism symptoms? Learn more about specific symptoms, and determine if your child might benefit from an autism screening or diagnosis.
How Is Autism Diagnosed?
How do doctors make an autism diagnosis? Autistic Spectrum Disorders are defined by six characteristics. Your practitioner or evaluation team should use the DSM-IV definitions to diagnose you or your child.
How do doctors make an autism diagnosis? Autistic Spectrum Disorders are defined by six characteristics. Your practitioner or evaluation team should use the DSM-IV definitions to diagnose you or your child.
Diagnosis Asperger Syndrome
What are the diagnostic criteria for Asperger syndrome? Here are the specific criteria as laid out in the official DSM-IV-TR diagnostic manual.
What are the diagnostic criteria for Asperger syndrome? Here are the specific criteria as laid out in the official DSM-IV-TR diagnostic manual.
ABA and Autism
Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) is one of the oldest and most widely used treatments for autism. What is it? How does it work? Is ABA the right therapy for your child with autism?
Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) is one of the oldest and most widely used treatments for autism. What is it? How does it work? Is ABA the right therapy for your child with autism?
Screen, Diagnose Autism
How do professionals screen for and diagnose autism?
How do professionals screen for and diagnose autism?
Autistic Child's Behavior
Your child with autism won't sit down for dinner. Insists on climbing the entertainment center. Loses control at the grocery store. Here are hints and tips for understanding and managing your autistic child's behavior.
Your child with autism won't sit down for dinner. Insists on climbing the entertainment center. Loses control at the grocery store. Here are hints and tips for understanding and managing your autistic child's behavior.
Treating Adults with Aspergers
What happens after an adult is diagnosed with Asperger syndrome? What treatments are available and what do they do?
What happens after an adult is diagnosed with Asperger syndrome? What treatments are available and what do they do?
What Is Mild Autism?
: What Is Mild Autism? What is "mild autism"? Is it different from or the same as Asperger syndrome?
: What Is Mild Autism? What is "mild autism"? Is it different from or the same as Asperger syndrome?
Do Vaccines Cause Autism
Do vaccines cause autism? Find out what the real issues are, what the medical community says on the issue, and how to weigh the evidence.
Do vaccines cause autism? Find out what the real issues are, what the medical community says on the issue, and how to weigh the evidence.
Why Diagnose Adult Aspergers?
Asperger Syndrome (AS) is neither life-threatening nor is it curable. So why bother seeking a diagnosis if you're already an adult? Here are ten good reasons why adults might choose to seek an Asperger Syndrome diagnosis.
Asperger Syndrome (AS) is neither life-threatening nor is it curable. So why bother seeking a diagnosis if you're already an adult? Here are ten good reasons why adults might choose to seek an Asperger Syndrome diagnosis.
Infant Diagnosis of Autism
Is it really possible to diagnose autism in infants? Philip and Osnat Teitelbaum believe the answer is yes, and they've written a book to promote their research. Find out more about their theories and research.
Is it really possible to diagnose autism in infants? Philip and Osnat Teitelbaum believe the answer is yes, and they've written a book to promote their research. Find out more about their theories and research.
What Is Autism?
Autism is a complex set of disorders that are suddenly being diagnosed in epidemic proportions. What exactly is autism, who does it strike, and what do autistic people have in common?
Autism is a complex set of disorders that are suddenly being diagnosed in epidemic proportions. What exactly is autism, who does it strike, and what do autistic people have in common?
Is Autism Genetic?
Is autism genetic? Twins are very likely to share autistic traits. While these facts suggest that autism is genetic, there's more to the story.
Is autism genetic? Twins are very likely to share autistic traits. While these facts suggest that autism is genetic, there's more to the story.
What's Sensory Integration?
What is Sensory Processing Disorder(SPD)? What is Sensory Integration? How are they connected with autism spectrum disorders?
What is Sensory Processing Disorder(SPD)? What is Sensory Integration? How are they connected with autism spectrum disorders?
Social Skills Training Basics
Social Skills training is often offered to children and adults on the autism spectrum. Do you need a therapist to teach social skills to your child with autism? Get the facts in this quick overview.
Social Skills training is often offered to children and adults on the autism spectrum. Do you need a therapist to teach social skills to your child with autism? Get the facts in this quick overview.
What Is Stimming?
Stimming is short for self-stimulatory behavior. What is stimming in autism? Why is stimming so common in autistic people?
Stimming is short for self-stimulatory behavior. What is stimming in autism? Why is stimming so common in autistic people?
Treatments for Autism
How do you choose a treatment for autism? How does one autism treatment differ from another? Which autism treatments are the most effective? Which is the right treatment for you or your child with autism? Explore treatments for autism and learn about your options.
How do you choose a treatment for autism? How does one autism treatment differ from another? Which autism treatments are the most effective? Which is the right treatment for you or your child with autism? Explore treatments for autism and learn about your options.
Find a Summer Camp
Where can you find a summer camp for your child with autism? This article includes links to the best directories of summer camps for kids with autism and Asperger syndrome.
Where can you find a summer camp for your child with autism? This article includes links to the best directories of summer camps for kids with autism and Asperger syndrome.
Drugs Used to Treat Autism
While no drug has yet been developed to directly treat or cure autism, many treat symptoms associated with autism. Are any right for you or your child with an autism spectrum disorder?
While no drug has yet been developed to directly treat or cure autism, many treat symptoms associated with autism. Are any right for you or your child with an autism spectrum disorder?
Occupational Therapy & Autism
What is occupational therapy, and how is it helpful to people with autism? This overview article covers the basics.
What is occupational therapy, and how is it helpful to people with autism? This overview article covers the basics.
Picture Exchange & Autism
PECS (Picture Exchange Communication System) is commonly used to communicate with pre-verbal autistic children and adults. What is the Picture Exchange Communication System - and how does it help people with autism to communicate?
PECS (Picture Exchange Communication System) is commonly used to communicate with pre-verbal autistic children and adults. What is the Picture Exchange Communication System - and how does it help people with autism to communicate?
Early Signs of Autism:Placenta
What are the very early signs of autism? A new research study at Yale University Medical School suggests that placental abnormalities may point to genetic differences leading to autism spectrum disorders.
What are the very early signs of autism? A new research study at Yale University Medical School suggests that placental abnormalities may point to genetic differences leading to autism spectrum disorders.
Best Autistic Traits
There's plenty written about the deficits of people on the autism spectrum. It's time to celebrate some of the best qualities of folks with autism. Here are ten top strengths of people living on the spectrum.
There's plenty written about the deficits of people on the autism spectrum. It's time to celebrate some of the best qualities of folks with autism. Here are ten top strengths of people living on the spectrum.
What Is a DAN! Autism Doctor?
: What Is a Defeat Autism Now (DAN!) Autism Doctor? What Is a DAN! Autism Doctor? If you research autism
: What Is a Defeat Autism Now (DAN!) Autism Doctor? What Is a DAN! Autism Doctor? If you research autism
Pediatricians May Miss Autism
What are the first signs of autism? Should you be concerned? What are the best ways to share your concerns with your doctor? And how do you start seeking a diagnosis for autism?
What are the first signs of autism? Should you be concerned? What are the best ways to share your concerns with your doctor? And how do you start seeking a diagnosis for autism?
Play Therapy and Autism
What is play therapy? Why is it used as a therapy for children with autism? Get the basics!
What is play therapy? Why is it used as a therapy for children with autism? Get the basics!
What is Severe Autism
What is severe autism? How does severe autism differ from high functioning autism, Asperger syndrome and other autism spectrum disorders?
What is severe autism? How does severe autism differ from high functioning autism, Asperger syndrome and other autism spectrum disorders?
Speech Therapy & Autism
Speech therapy is almost always a must for people with autism. What is a speech therapist? How do speech therapists work with people on the autism spectrum? How do you find a speech therapist?
Speech therapy is almost always a must for people with autism. What is a speech therapist? How do speech therapists work with people on the autism spectrum? How do you find a speech therapist?
Autism and the Brain
Are the brains of people with autism different? Research suggests that the brains of people with autism have both structural and chemical differences.
Are the brains of people with autism different? Research suggests that the brains of people with autism have both structural and chemical differences.
Echo Speech and Video Talk
: Why Does My Child With Autism Repeat Words and Phrases? If you're the parent of a verbal child diagnosed
: Why Does My Child With Autism Repeat Words and Phrases? If you're the parent of a verbal child diagnosed
Family Grants for Autism
Yes, there are grants for individual families living with autism. They're not large, and they're very competitive - but they are out there. Here's a list of some of the top funding agencies that offer grants for families living with autism.
Yes, there are grants for individual families living with autism. They're not large, and they're very competitive - but they are out there. Here's a list of some of the top funding agencies that offer grants for families living with autism.
Risk Factors for Autism
What are some of the risk factors for autism?
What are some of the risk factors for autism?
Sex Education for Autism Teens
Sexuality is a tough topic with any teen. For children and teens on the autism spectrum, sex education is even more complex. How do you teach someone with social and communications challenges about such a difficult and socially complicated topic?
Sexuality is a tough topic with any teen. For children and teens on the autism spectrum, sex education is even more complex. How do you teach someone with social and communications challenges about such a difficult and socially complicated topic?
Nonverbal Autism
Nonverbal autism is not uncommon, but it is a mysterious and surprising disorder. Find out more about nonverbal autism.
Nonverbal autism is not uncommon, but it is a mysterious and surprising disorder. Find out more about nonverbal autism.
Toilet Train Child with Autism
An expert shares a step-by-step method to toilet train children with autism.
An expert shares a step-by-step method to toilet train children with autism.
Who Diagnoses Autism?
Who should diagnose autism spectrum disorders? What is an autism specialist? Find the right doctor or team to evaluate and diagnose autism.
Who should diagnose autism spectrum disorders? What is an autism specialist? Find the right doctor or team to evaluate and diagnose autism.
Educational Options
How should children with autism be educated? There are many different opinions on the topic. This overview presents the options, along with a quick look at their pros and cons.
How should children with autism be educated? There are many different opinions on the topic. This overview presents the options, along with a quick look at their pros and cons.
Researching Causes of Autism
What causes autism? Recent research has turned up new information about genetics, brain structure, environmental issues and more. As scientists build consensus, they are closing in on possible causes and cures for autism.
What causes autism? Recent research has turned up new information about genetics, brain structure, environmental issues and more. As scientists build consensus, they are closing in on possible causes and cures for autism.
Should We Have Another Child?
Should parents of a child with autism have more children? What is the risk of having another child with autism? Drs. Robert Naseef and Cindy Ariel discuss the implications of parents of a child with autism having more children.
Should parents of a child with autism have more children? What is the risk of having another child with autism? Drs. Robert Naseef and Cindy Ariel discuss the implications of parents of a child with autism having more children.
Repetitive Behaviors in Autism
One of the core symptoms of autism is repetitive behaviors. What are these behaviors, and how can they be managed?
One of the core symptoms of autism is repetitive behaviors. What are these behaviors, and how can they be managed?
Sensory Integration & Autism
What is Sensory Integration Therapy and how can it help children with autism?
What is Sensory Integration Therapy and how can it help children with autism?
Shared Autistic Symptoms
The autism spectrum includes an incredibly wide range of people, with an amazingly broad range of abilities and challanges. So, what symptoms do all autistic people share?
The autism spectrum includes an incredibly wide range of people, with an amazingly broad range of abilities and challanges. So, what symptoms do all autistic people share?
RDI and Autism
The Goals of RDI Dr. Steven Gutstein is the creator of the RDI (Relationship Development Intervention)
The Goals of RDI Dr. Steven Gutstein is the creator of the RDI (Relationship Development Intervention)
Behavior Therapy for Autism
Behavior therapy is often recommended as a treatment of autism. What is a behavior therapist, what do they do, and where do you find one? Get the basics.
Behavior therapy is often recommended as a treatment of autism. What is a behavior therapist, what do they do, and where do you find one? Get the basics.
Autism and Puberty
How can I help my autistic child handle puberty? Drs. Bob Naseef and Cindy Ariel offer insights into how to help your autistic child manage the ups and downs of puberty.
How can I help my autistic child handle puberty? Drs. Bob Naseef and Cindy Ariel offer insights into how to help your autistic child manage the ups and downs of puberty.
Start a GFCF Diet for Autism
Many practitioners recommend a gluten (wheat) and casein (dairy) free diet for children with autism. But in the USA, wheat and dairy are everywhere! An expert shares tips on starting and managing a GFCF diet for children with autism.
Many practitioners recommend a gluten (wheat) and casein (dairy) free diet for children with autism. But in the USA, wheat and dairy are everywhere! An expert shares tips on starting and managing a GFCF diet for children with autism.
Top Treatments for Autism
As you start to dig deeply into the literature on autism treatments, you'll find dozens of available
As you start to dig deeply into the literature on autism treatments, you'll find dozens of available
Social Communication Symptoms and Autism
Autism symptoms are often most obvious in social situations. Even for verbal people with autism, choosing and using the right words and body language can be very difficult indeed.
Autism symptoms are often most obvious in social situations. Even for verbal people with autism, choosing and using the right words and body language can be very difficult indeed.
Best Sports for Autistic Kids
Which are the best sports for kids with autism? Hint: soccer may not be top of the list!
Which are the best sports for kids with autism? Hint: soccer may not be top of the list!
Music Therapy for Autism
Music therapy is a well-established method for working with people on the autism spectrum. Is music therapy right for your child with autism?
Music therapy is a well-established method for working with people on the autism spectrum. Is music therapy right for your child with autism?
Autism Myths
If you're new to the autism spectrum, you may have built your picture of autism from media stories. But it's important not to believe everything you see or hear!
If you're new to the autism spectrum, you may have built your picture of autism from media stories. But it's important not to believe everything you see or hear!
Atypical Autism
What is atypical autism? It's another name for one of the official autism spectrum diagnoses.
What is atypical autism? It's another name for one of the official autism spectrum diagnoses.
A Definition of Autism
Here is a basic definition of autism and autism spectrum disorders.
Here is a basic definition of autism and autism spectrum disorders.
Best Treatment for Autism?
What's the best treatment for autism? Here's a quick answer to a troubling question, along with links to much more information.
What's the best treatment for autism? Here's a quick answer to a troubling question, along with links to much more information.
Pictures for PECS, Teaching
Are you using pictures to communicate with a person on the autism spectrum? Whether you're working with a PECS (Picture Exchange Card System) consultant, creating visual schedules, or using pictures to plan special events, you'll need great images. Here are some great resources!
Are you using pictures to communicate with a person on the autism spectrum? Whether you're working with a PECS (Picture Exchange Card System) consultant, creating visual schedules, or using pictures to plan special events, you'll need great images. Here are some great resources!
Babbling, Pointing & Autism
: Why Do Early Symptoms of Autism Include No Babbling or Pointing? Why is "no babbling or pointing by
: Why Do Early Symptoms of Autism Include No Babbling or Pointing? Why is "no babbling or pointing by
Physical Therapy for Autism
Why is physical therapy offered as a treatment for autism? How can a person with autism benefit from physical therapy? Check out this quick overview on physical therapy and autism.
Why is physical therapy offered as a treatment for autism? How can a person with autism benefit from physical therapy? Check out this quick overview on physical therapy and autism.
Play Skills Autism
Lack of play skills is one sign of autism. What are play skills? What does a lack of play skills look like?
Lack of play skills is one sign of autism. What are play skills? What does a lack of play skills look like?
Autism Symptoms and Eye Contact
Lack of eye contact is often a symptom of autism. What exactly is eye contact, and how much is enough?
Lack of eye contact is often a symptom of autism. What exactly is eye contact, and how much is enough?
The MMR and Autism
Does the MMR (Mumps-Measles-Rubella) vaccine cause autism? This question, first raised in 1998, continues to cause controversy in the autism community. What does the research say?
Does the MMR (Mumps-Measles-Rubella) vaccine cause autism? This question, first raised in 1998, continues to cause controversy in the autism community. What does the research say?
Autism & Emotions: How to Help
Children with autism have strong emotions, and it can be tough for them to know how to let out their feelings appropriately. Psychologists Dr. Robert Naseef and Dr. Cindy Ariel explain why emotions run so high for children with autism, and offer tips for helping your child manage strong feelings.
Children with autism have strong emotions, and it can be tough for them to know how to let out their feelings appropriately. Psychologists Dr. Robert Naseef and Dr. Cindy Ariel explain why emotions run so high for children with autism, and offer tips for helping your child manage strong feelings.
Developmental Pediatrics
What Is a Developmental Pediatrician? In an ideal world, a developmental pediatrician is a board-accredited
What Is a Developmental Pediatrician? In an ideal world, a developmental pediatrician is a board-accredited
Biomed & Autism: Q&A
The Autism Research Institute (ARI ) was created by Dr. Bernard Rimland, one of the pioneers in autism
The Autism Research Institute (ARI ) was created by Dr. Bernard Rimland, one of the pioneers in autism
Explaining Asperger Syndrome
Asperger syndrome is invisible, at least some of the time. At other times, though, symptoms rise to the surface. When should parents tell their children that they have Asperger syndrome? When and how should parents explain Asperger syndrome to other adults?
Asperger syndrome is invisible, at least some of the time. At other times, though, symptoms rise to the surface. When should parents tell their children that they have Asperger syndrome? When and how should parents explain Asperger syndrome to other adults?
Public Autism Education
Most children with autism attend public school, but not every school provides good quality autism education. Is public school the right choice for your family? Learn more about the pros and cons of public school for children with autism.
Most children with autism attend public school, but not every school provides good quality autism education. Is public school the right choice for your family? Learn more about the pros and cons of public school for children with autism.
Is There a Cure for Autism?
Is there a cure for autism?
Is there a cure for autism?
Is Autism on the Rise?
Since the early 1990's, diagnoses of autism have risen dramatically. But is there a true epidemic -- or just more diagnoses?
Since the early 1990's, diagnoses of autism have risen dramatically. But is there a true epidemic -- or just more diagnoses?
Help: Picky Eaters with Autism
What does it take to get a child with autism to eat more than one or two favored items? Here's a step-by-step guide for parents of autistic children.
What does it take to get a child with autism to eat more than one or two favored items? Here's a step-by-step guide for parents of autistic children.
College & Autism: Tips
What does it take for a teen with autism to succeed in college? Maureen Johnson, Ph.D., an adult with high functioning autism, offers hints and tips from her own experience.
What does it take for a teen with autism to succeed in college? Maureen Johnson, Ph.D., an adult with high functioning autism, offers hints and tips from her own experience.
Autism Screening for Children
How does autism screening for young children work?
How does autism screening for young children work?
What Is Pragmatic Speech
Pragmatic speech is often an issue for people with autism. They may use words and language brilliantly, but have a tough time communicating.
Pragmatic speech is often an issue for people with autism. They may use words and language brilliantly, but have a tough time communicating.
What Is Asperger Syndrome?
What is Asperger Syndrome? Here's a quick definition!
What is Asperger Syndrome? Here's a quick definition!
Aiming for "Normal?"
: Should a Teen with Asperger Syndrome Try to Be "Normal?" I'm worried about how my bright, funny, imaginative
: Should a Teen with Asperger Syndrome Try to Be "Normal?" I'm worried about how my bright, funny, imaginative
Autism: A Plus at Work
Passion. An eye for detail. Photographic recall. A lack of interest in office politics. All of these are traits of autism -- and all are plusses in many careers.
Passion. An eye for detail. Photographic recall. A lack of interest in office politics. All of these are traits of autism -- and all are plusses in many careers.
Adult May Have Aspergers
I think I know an adult with Asperger Syndrome. What can I do to help him?
I think I know an adult with Asperger Syndrome. What can I do to help him?
OCD and Autism
People with autism often engage in repetitive behaviors that may be similar to OCD. What should you do if these behaviors become problemmatic?
People with autism often engage in repetitive behaviors that may be similar to OCD. What should you do if these behaviors become problemmatic?
Respite Care and Autism
Respite means relief. Respite care for a loved one with autism means relief for the caregiver. When is it OK to seek respite care? What's the best way to find? How can you pay for it?
Respite means relief. Respite care for a loved one with autism means relief for the caregiver. When is it OK to seek respite care? What's the best way to find? How can you pay for it?
Toys for the Child with Autism
child with autism, toys autism, resources autism
child with autism, toys autism, resources autism
Autism and Sleep
Do children with autism really sleep less than their typical peers? The answers may surprise you.
Do children with autism really sleep less than their typical peers? The answers may surprise you.
Vaccines Aborted Fetal Tissue
Some parents reject vaccines on the basis that vaccines contain aborted fetal tissue. Is this really true?
Some parents reject vaccines on the basis that vaccines contain aborted fetal tissue. Is this really true?
What is Rett Syndrome?
Rett Syndrome is one of the autism spectrum disorders.
Rett Syndrome is one of the autism spectrum disorders.
Autistic Savant
If your child with autism has special talents, is he a savant? Find out more about this extraordinary disorder.
If your child with autism has special talents, is he a savant? Find out more about this extraordinary disorder.
Private School & Autism
What are the pros and cons of private school for children with autism? Find out what the options are, and decide whether private school is a good possibility for your child on the autism spectrum.
What are the pros and cons of private school for children with autism? Find out what the options are, and decide whether private school is a good possibility for your child on the autism spectrum.
Additional Symptoms of Autism
Autism is usually described as a social/communication disorder. Yet virtually everyone on the autism spectrum has symptoms NOT described in the diagnostic literature. Learn about some of the additional symptoms of autism - symptoms that are rarely mentioned in the media.
Autism is usually described as a social/communication disorder. Yet virtually everyone on the autism spectrum has symptoms NOT described in the diagnostic literature. Learn about some of the additional symptoms of autism - symptoms that are rarely mentioned in the media.
Impact of Early Intervention
Early, intensive intervention for children with autism is general considered to be critically important. But what does the research really tell us?
Early, intensive intervention for children with autism is general considered to be critically important. But what does the research really tell us?
Psychology and Autism
Is psychotherapy provided by a qualified psychologist helpful for people with autism? Find out more about psychology and autism.
Is psychotherapy provided by a qualified psychologist helpful for people with autism? Find out more about psychology and autism.
What Is Fragile X Syndrome?
Fragile X Syndrome is an inherited disorder on the autism spectrum.
Fragile X Syndrome is an inherited disorder on the autism spectrum.
Wheat or Dairy Cause Autism?
Can wheat (gluten) or dairy (cassein), or a combination of both, actually cause autism? Review the evidence.
Can wheat (gluten) or dairy (cassein), or a combination of both, actually cause autism? Review the evidence.
Health Insurance for Autism
Will your health insurance cover the cost of treatments for autism? Often the answer is yes - even when it appears to be no. Here are some tricks of the health insurance industry that may lower your costs
Will your health insurance cover the cost of treatments for autism? Often the answer is yes - even when it appears to be no. Here are some tricks of the health insurance industry that may lower your costs
What Doesn't Cause Autism
As parents hear more and more about autism in the news, they worry that anything they do (or don't do) could cause the disorder. In fact, while there is debate about what causes autism, it's clear that many things cannot cause autism.
As parents hear more and more about autism in the news, they worry that anything they do (or don't do) could cause the disorder. In fact, while there is debate about what causes autism, it's clear that many things cannot cause autism.
Intelligence Tests & Autism
If your autistic child was given an intelligence test, chances are it didn't do a great job of measuring his IQ. Children with autism develop and communicate differently, so practitioners should measure their intelligence with different tools.
If your autistic child was given an intelligence test, chances are it didn't do a great job of measuring his IQ. Children with autism develop and communicate differently, so practitioners should measure their intelligence with different tools.
After the Autism Diagnosis
An autism diagnosis can be devastating. Here's a step-by-step guide to helping your child and yourself.
An autism diagnosis can be devastating. Here's a step-by-step guide to helping your child and yourself.
Plan for the Future
Once your child with autism is past the age of 18, he is an adult. At 21, the IDEA (Individuals with
Once your child with autism is past the age of 18, he is an adult. At 21, the IDEA (Individuals with
Sensory Integration Methods
What do sensory integration therapists do for children with autism? Learn about evaluation techniques, therapies, and outcomes.
What do sensory integration therapists do for children with autism? Learn about evaluation techniques, therapies, and outcomes.
Autistic Speech and Prosody
Autistic people often have odd speech patterns and may have a hard time understanding how changes in tone or pitch can change the meaning of words and phrases. Find out more about why this is the case, and what it means.
Autistic people often have odd speech patterns and may have a hard time understanding how changes in tone or pitch can change the meaning of words and phrases. Find out more about why this is the case, and what it means.
Head Growth Suggests Autism
While there's no clear cut way to know whether an infant is likely to develop symptoms of an autism spectrum disorder, this study suggests that accelerated head growth may be one important symptom to track.
While there's no clear cut way to know whether an infant is likely to develop symptoms of an autism spectrum disorder, this study suggests that accelerated head growth may be one important symptom to track.
Autism Websites
There's an incredible glut of information about autism available on the web. Some is outstanding; some is ... not so outstanding. These top ten sites are reliable resources that offer solid information, useful advice, and fascinating insights into the world of autism.
There's an incredible glut of information about autism available on the web. Some is outstanding; some is ... not so outstanding. These top ten sites are reliable resources that offer solid information, useful advice, and fascinating insights into the world of autism.
Autism, Genetics, and Risk
Research shows that genetics play an important role in autism. If you already have one child with autism, how likely is it that your next child will be autistic too?
Research shows that genetics play an important role in autism. If you already have one child with autism, how likely is it that your next child will be autistic too?
Art Therapy for Autism
Art therapy is a solidly established treatment for many disorders. Find out how it can be helpful for people on the autism spectrum.
Art therapy is a solidly established treatment for many disorders. Find out how it can be helpful for people on the autism spectrum.
Autism and GI Issues
Yes, there is a connection between gastrointestinal problems (constipation and diarrhea) and autism. But what causes that connection is still unclear.
Yes, there is a connection between gastrointestinal problems (constipation and diarrhea) and autism. But what causes that connection is still unclear.
Older Parents, Autistic Kids?
Are older parents more likely to have autistic children? Find out what the research says about age and parents of autistic children.
Are older parents more likely to have autistic children? Find out what the research says about age and parents of autistic children.
Depression & Autism Moms
If you're the mother of a child with autism, you may be at risk of depression. If you're down, you're not alone. Luckily, there are tools to help you cope!
If you're the mother of a child with autism, you may be at risk of depression. If you're down, you're not alone. Luckily, there are tools to help you cope!
Refrigerator Mothers
What's a Refrigerator Mother?: The term "refrigerator mother" was coined to describe a parent whose cold,
What's a Refrigerator Mother?: The term "refrigerator mother" was coined to describe a parent whose cold,
Anxiety and Aspergers
The diagnostic criteria for Asperger syndrome do not include anxiety or depression. But experts say that people with Asperger syndrome have a greater than average chance of developing mood disorders.
The diagnostic criteria for Asperger syndrome do not include anxiety or depression. But experts say that people with Asperger syndrome have a greater than average chance of developing mood disorders.
Melatonin, Autism, and Sleep
Sleeplessness is not uncommon among people on the autism spectrum. Melatonin is one good tool for helping folks with autism to get to sleep and sleep through the night.
Sleeplessness is not uncommon among people on the autism spectrum. Melatonin is one good tool for helping folks with autism to get to sleep and sleep through the night.
Parenting Adult with Asperger
How do I parent an adult child with Asperger syndrome? How can (or should) a parent intervene when an adult child with Aspergers seems to be headed for trouble? Kate Goldfield, a young adult with Asperger Syndrome, offers insights and ideas.
How do I parent an adult child with Asperger syndrome? How can (or should) a parent intervene when an adult child with Aspergers seems to be headed for trouble? Kate Goldfield, a young adult with Asperger Syndrome, offers insights and ideas.
Find a Summer Autism Program
Here are the steps to take to find the right summer autism program for your child.
Here are the steps to take to find the right summer autism program for your child.
Right Home for Autistic Adults
Where should your adult child with autism live? What will he need in the way of support? Can you afford to provide what's needed? This article is an overview of some of the issues and options.
Where should your adult child with autism live? What will he need in the way of support? Can you afford to provide what's needed? This article is an overview of some of the issues and options.
Wait for Autism Screening?
When should you seek an autism screening for your child? Even infants and toddlers can show behaviors that may look like autism. These behaviors may eventually disappear -- or not. Here's why you shouldn't wait to have your child evaluated.
When should you seek an autism screening for your child? Even infants and toddlers can show behaviors that may look like autism. These behaviors may eventually disappear -- or not. Here's why you shouldn't wait to have your child evaluated.
ABA Defined
How does Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) work? Dr. Ivar Lovaas is the developer of ABA. Researchers at the Lovaas Institute explain ABA terms and their meaning.
How does Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) work? Dr. Ivar Lovaas is the developer of ABA. Researchers at the Lovaas Institute explain ABA terms and their meaning.
ADI-R Test for Autism
The Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised (ADI-R) test is often used as a tool to help make an autism diagnosis. Find out more about the test and how it's administered and scored.
The Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised (ADI-R) test is often used as a tool to help make an autism diagnosis. Find out more about the test and how it's administered and scored.
Skip Vaccines to Avoid Autism?
Should parents skip vaccines to avoid autism? With all the media hype around this issue, many parents are considering the alternatives. There are some options ... but skipping vaccines is not one of them!
Should parents skip vaccines to avoid autism? With all the media hype around this issue, many parents are considering the alternatives. There are some options ... but skipping vaccines is not one of them!
The Vaccine/Autism Debate
The media has been buzzing about a possible link between vaccines and autism. But unless you're paying close attention, you may not realize how complex that debate really is. Here's an overview of the many questions now under debate -- and links to more in-depth info on a variety of subjects.
The media has been buzzing about a possible link between vaccines and autism. But unless you're paying close attention, you may not realize how complex that debate really is. Here's an overview of the many questions now under debate -- and links to more in-depth info on a variety of subjects.
No More Asperger Syndrome
The new diagnostic manual (DSM 5) will be put into practice in 2013. When that happens, the term Asperger syndrome will disappear from diagnostic literature. Find out why.
The new diagnostic manual (DSM 5) will be put into practice in 2013. When that happens, the term Asperger syndrome will disappear from diagnostic literature. Find out why.
Broad Autism Phenotype
What is the Broad Autism Phenotype?
What is the Broad Autism Phenotype?
Early Intervention for Autism
What is early intervention for autism and why is it a good idea?
What is early intervention for autism and why is it a good idea?
PDD-NOS
What is Pervasive Developmental Disorder Not Otherwise Specified (PDD-NOS)?
What is Pervasive Developmental Disorder Not Otherwise Specified (PDD-NOS)?
Parenting an Autistic Child
How can I parent my autistic child? Drs. Bob Naseef and Cindy Ariel respond with compassion and insight to a couples' fears that they are bad parents to their autistic child.
How can I parent my autistic child? Drs. Bob Naseef and Cindy Ariel respond with compassion and insight to a couples' fears that they are bad parents to their autistic child.
Floortime Therapy & Skills
Floortime is an increasingly popular treatment for children with autism. How does Floortime work? Can Floortime make a difference for children with autism?
Floortime is an increasingly popular treatment for children with autism. How does Floortime work? Can Floortime make a difference for children with autism?
Autism and Divorce
Divorce is always toughest on children. When one of the children is autistic, though, there's an added burden. How can parents help an autistic child manage the many changes in his life? How can they help him to communicate and cope with his feelings? Drs. Bob Naseef and Cindy Ariel offer insights into managing a difficulty transition.
Divorce is always toughest on children. When one of the children is autistic, though, there's an added burden. How can parents help an autistic child manage the many changes in his life? How can they help him to communicate and cope with his feelings? Drs. Bob Naseef and Cindy Ariel offer insights into managing a difficulty transition.
Social Thinking & Autism
Children with high functioning autism and Asperger syndrome look like anyone else - until they get into a social situation. It's then that their differences become serious challenges. How do you teach children to interact in a social situation?
Children with high functioning autism and Asperger syndrome look like anyone else - until they get into a social situation. It's then that their differences become serious challenges. How do you teach children to interact in a social situation?
Autism, TV and Videos
You know that autistic children need therapy and interaction. Lots of interaction. And TV, we're told, is the opposite of interaction. But television, videos and even video games can serve many positive purposes -- both for our kids...and for us!
You know that autistic children need therapy and interaction. Lots of interaction. And TV, we're told, is the opposite of interaction. But television, videos and even video games can serve many positive purposes -- both for our kids...and for us!
Research: Heredity & Autism
Is autism really a genetic disorder created, in part, as a result of older parents? A large-scale research
Is autism really a genetic disorder created, in part, as a result of older parents? A large-scale research
Drama Therapy for Autism
Drama therapy is an old idea, but it's a relatively new way to help people with autism build and practice social skills.
Drama therapy is an old idea, but it's a relatively new way to help people with autism build and practice social skills.
MMR Vaccination Controversy
Does the MMR vaccine cause autism? For many years, researchers have debated the question of whether the mumps/measles/rubella vaccine could be responsible for the leap in autism diagnoses. Despite reassurances from federal research agencies, the question remains the subject of debate.
Does the MMR vaccine cause autism? For many years, researchers have debated the question of whether the mumps/measles/rubella vaccine could be responsible for the leap in autism diagnoses. Despite reassurances from federal research agencies, the question remains the subject of debate.
How to Get Great ABA Therapy
Most doctors and many schools recommend behavioral therapy for children with autism. But not all behavioral therapists are created equal. How can you tell whether a therapist is doing a good job, and how can you improve the situation if they're not?
Most doctors and many schools recommend behavioral therapy for children with autism. But not all behavioral therapists are created equal. How can you tell whether a therapist is doing a good job, and how can you improve the situation if they're not?
Autism Overview
What is autism? What causes autism? How is autism treated? This fact sheet from the National Institutes of Health provides a clear and readable overview.
What is autism? What causes autism? How is autism treated? This fact sheet from the National Institutes of Health provides a clear and readable overview.
Choosing a DAN! Doctor
DAN doctors offer biomedical treatments, such as special diets, supplements, and chelation, for children with autism. Because their training is sketchy, it's important to choose your DAN doctor wisely.
DAN doctors offer biomedical treatments, such as special diets, supplements, and chelation, for children with autism. Because their training is sketchy, it's important to choose your DAN doctor wisely.
New Autism Criteria and PDD-NOS
When the American Psychiatric Association changes its diagnostic criteria for autism spectrum disorders, many people will cease to qualify as autistic.
When the American Psychiatric Association changes its diagnostic criteria for autism spectrum disorders, many people will cease to qualify as autistic.
Facilitated Communication
According to the Facilited Communication Institute at Syracuse University in New York, facilitated communication
According to the Facilited Communication Institute at Syracuse University in New York, facilitated communication
Hyperbaric Oxygen for Autism
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) is a new treatment for autism which is in the very earliest stages of research. What is HBOT for autism? How effective is HBOT in treating autism?
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) is a new treatment for autism which is in the very earliest stages of research. What is HBOT for autism? How effective is HBOT in treating autism?
Autistic Child? Find Support
How can families with autistic children find support? Drs. Naseef and Ariel offer practical suggestions on how to find support and cope.
How can families with autistic children find support? Drs. Naseef and Ariel offer practical suggestions on how to find support and cope.
Floortime for Autism
What Is The Floortime Treatment for Autism? The following is drawn from the transcript of a web radio
What Is The Floortime Treatment for Autism? The following is drawn from the transcript of a web radio
Snappy Answers
If you have a child on the autism spectrum then you hear those annoying comments every day. He can't be autistic because... If you'd only provide more structure she'd be fine... Here are some snappy comebacks to some of the most common remarks!
If you have a child on the autism spectrum then you hear those annoying comments every day. He can't be autistic because... If you'd only provide more structure she'd be fine... Here are some snappy comebacks to some of the most common remarks!
Autism, Anxiety, Nightmares
Autism, anxiety and sleep disturbances often go together. Drs. Robert Naseef and Cindy Ariel address a parent's concerns about nightmares, and offer specific advice.
Autism, anxiety and sleep disturbances often go together. Drs. Robert Naseef and Cindy Ariel address a parent's concerns about nightmares, and offer specific advice.
ABA & High Functioning Autism
: Can a Child Be Too High Functioning for Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) I was told that my child is
: Can a Child Be Too High Functioning for Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) I was told that my child is
What Is a "Mand" in ABA Therapy?
: ABA (Applied Behavior Analysis) is a therapy which uses behavioral theory to teach people with autism
: ABA (Applied Behavior Analysis) is a therapy which uses behavioral theory to teach people with autism
Marriage and Autistic Child
Drs. Naseef and Ariel offer these tools and techniques for strengthening a marriage place under stress by a special needs child.
Drs. Naseef and Ariel offer these tools and techniques for strengthening a marriage place under stress by a special needs child.
Autism and Spirituality
Bill Stillman's book, Autism and the God Connection, has received a good deal of interest from About.com readers. Many felt that Bill's approach to autism and spirituality struck a note with their own experience. Here, Bill answers questions about his ideas and his writing.
Bill Stillman's book, Autism and the God Connection, has received a good deal of interest from About.com readers. Many felt that Bill's approach to autism and spirituality struck a note with their own experience. Here, Bill answers questions about his ideas and his writing.