What is an IEP for Kids with Autism?

IEPs (Individualized Education Plans) are super important. My son, Lucas, who is now 23 years old was three when he got his first IEP. At that point, I didn't know much about what an IEP was but I learned a lot over the years. So, today I want to share what an IEP is, why…

Autism and Bilingualism with Magui Moreno

As a dual language household, Magüi Moreno and her husband intended to teach their son Adrian both Spanish and English. Early concerns about his language abilities were brushed off as a result of trying to teach two languages at once, but an autism diagnosis at the age of 4 led their family on a different path. Language learning is not an innate learning, so Magüi had to learn how to teach a language from the bottom up. Today Adrian is learning a little Spanish with his grandma. Stay tuned for Magüis tips for special needs parents trying to cope with the Coronavirus pandemic.

How to Help a Late Talker

How to Help Late Talkers Having a child who is a late talker can be stressful. Will they talk on their own? Do I need to intervene? Are they just a late talker or is it more - like autism? Whether they are just late talkers or it is more, the fact remains that there…

Autism & ABA Online Training – Interview with Emaley

In high school, Emaley McCulloch found her passion, and while it was the children with autism that drew her to the field, it was the science that got her hooked. After recognizing how hard it was to travel from place to place training ABA therapists, Emaley started Autism Training Solutions, an online education company that trains professionals and parents in evidence-based autism interventions, no matter where theyre at in the world.

Dore Blanchet: Occupational Therapy for Autism & Telehealth

There are many professions in the autism community, and one very helpful person to have on your team is an OT. Dore Blanchet is one of my favorite OTs that Ive worked with, and today were going to cover fine motor skills; the role of an OT; and how Dore continues to work with her clients in the midst of COVID-19.

Autism Self Care Skills: Potty Training, Sleep, Dressing & More

Its safe to say that right now, we are in the middle of a global pandemic; but with so much sheltering going on, this is the perfect time to start working with your children about self-care skills! Today Im going to cover several skills such as potty-training and hand-washing, and where to begin with introducing these new skills.

5 Tips for Dealing with Legal Issues in Special Education

5 Tips for Dealing with Legal Issues in Special Education After two decades in the autism world, I have found myself in a few legal issues in special education - both as a parent and professional. I've learned some lessons about what to do if you find yourself in a legal dispute. Today I'm sharing…

Challenges of Autism Bullying, Dating Someone with Autism and Learning to Drive with Autism

I have been good friends with Suzie and Kelly Carpenter for almost two decades, and Im so excited to introduce you to them! Suzie is an author and coach, and Kelly is an aspiring photographer who was diagnosed with high-functioning autism when she was four years old. This mother-daughter duo has had to overcome a lot of challenges, but they have a ton of fantastic stories to share as well as provide a unique perspective.

Teaching Inferences & WH Questions to Kids with Autism

It can be very challenging figuring out the next steps in programming for a child who has completed or is at the top of the VB MAPP.  I recently got a question from a member of my online community about teaching inferences. Today I'm sharing a small excerpt from a recent Live Q and A…

Global Autism Project: Autism Around the World with Molly O.

The Global Autism Project is a nonprofit organization that helps people in 15 countries provide better treatment for children with autism. My interviewee this episode is Molly Ola Pinney, the founder and EO of the Global Autism Project, and today we discuss why the Global Autism Project was founded; how they help treat autism in other countries; and how the recent Coronavirus has affected their mission.