Should You Use Chew Toys for Kids with Autism?

Most infants chew on various toys and blankets, especially while they’re teething. Some kids with autism – or signs of autism – continue to chew well beyond infancy. Whether they are chewing on their hand, shirts, sleeves of their shirts, or any nonfood items, it can be a real problem. A common intervention that is […]
Teaching Play and Social Skills to Children with Autism

Rather than simply hoping a child with autism picks up social and play skills, I believe that it’s imperative for parents, caregivers, and therapists to purposefully teach these skills. But before a child can run, they have to learn how to crawl. I share the developmentally appropriate language skills, and some strategies to teach them, that can help children with autism develop a language foundation on which to build social and play skills.
Autism Success Story with Michele C.

In February 2020, Michelle’s daughter was given an autism diagnosis, but while she was lining all of the specialists up, the COVID shutdown occurred. Suddenly without the support she was counting on to help her, Michelle purchased my online course. In just six weeks, Michelle’s daughter went from only two words to around 500 words. Even I was amazed by the huge progress Elaina had, and I knew I just had to hear her story.
Music Therapy for Autism | Interview with Music Therapist Marlene

Inserting music into physical therapy can utilize both sides of the brain, and increase the efficacy of the physical therapy. For children on the autism spectrum who are engaged in musical therapy, it can improve their motor movements, their language skills, and not only their learning but also their maintenance. Dr. Marlene Sotelo discusses the evidence-based research surrounding music therapy for children on the autism spectrum.
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 […]