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There has been a lot of confusion around the Autism diagnosis and eligibility for the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS). The recent “accidental” change to the operational guidelines by the NDIA was certainly at the centre of this. Where they published information stating that Autism Level 2 would no longer be accepted automatically as…
I get asked a lot about sensory processing disorder or sensory sensitivities by parents wondering why their child is over sensitive to noise, or won’t eat crunchy foods and many other presentations of sensory problems. First of all many parents have trouble getting a diagnosis of sensory processing problems and they want to know why….
Token economy systems (e.g. sticker/reward charts, points systems) are extremely effective tools and behaviour strategy for both parents and teachers in order to provide positive reinforcement, teach appropriate behaviour and minimise challenging behaviour. They allow caregivers to reward target (appropriate) behaviours and allow children to visually see the goal or ‘prize’ that they are working…
Meltdowns are a common problem that parents struggle with. Looking at meltdowns through a sensory lens can help make S.E.N.S.E. of your child’s meltdown.
Routines are an integral component to preparing for and attending school. Routines enable children to anticipate what happens next and gives them a great deal of control over what they do during each part of the day.
PECS is an efficient mode of communication for children who are non-verbal and children who “speak” but have difficulties being understood by others. In this way, a child’s pictures act as their “words” while speech and language skills are still developing, which in turn is likely to reduce frustration and behaviours associated with communication breakdowns.
Parents frequently ask “What are the symptoms of Autism Spectrum Disorder?” and unfortunately we can’t always give a straight answer. Autism isn’t like most diagnoses where your child will display symptoms x, y and z and you know that’s what it is. Autism has a range of symptoms that fit into two categories and the presentations between children may vary significantly. Read on to find out about some of the early signs of Autism Spectrum Disorder.
Autism Spectrum Disorder is classified as a pervasive neurodevelopmental disorder. What this means is it is lifelong and relates to the development of the brain. Autism Spectrum Disorder is characterised by difficulties with social communication and interaction, and ritualised patterns of behaviours. Symptoms often present in early childhood, but the average age of diagnosis is 5.49 years.
Research suggests that individuals with autism spectrum disorders experience victimisation and social rejection up to four times more than their peers without autism. When looking at the playground, children and adolescents with autism were more likely to experience intentional social exclusion (being purposefully left out or avoided) and acts of physical aggression from their peers.
Time out can help teach children right from wrong. It means redirecting your child calmly to a designated area you have for time out when they have displayed a behaviour that is inappropriate. Outlining EXACTLY what the behavior you will use time out for is vital.
