Holidays can be a bit of a crazy time even if you don’t have sensory issues. But, if you’re on the autism spectrum, dealing with the changing schedules, changing time, changing seasons, seasonal parties, family gatherings, holiday decorations, etc can be just too overwhelming – and that will lead to unfortunate, but inevitable, meltdowns. We…
The names of those involved have been withheld to protect their privacy during this difficult time. I’ve found that having those serious conversations with my son is a little more difficult than talking to a neuro-typical teenager – which isn’t exactly easy either. Because of his limited vocabulary and understanding, conversations involving drugs, girls, etc…
I was reminded of this very thing earlier today. As a verbal species humans often rely almost solely on verbal or written word to communicate. And when we find someone who is non-verbal, we might be quick to (negatively) judge them. To think they have nothing to say. Yet we know in nature many animals…
One of my sons recently started high school – a treacherous time for any teenager. Now imagine in addition to all the changes in school and additional hormones being thrown at you, that you are also on the spectrum. You have a hard time reading facial expressions, tracking thousands of external stimuli from all the…
I recently spoke with my son about his day at school. It had been a special “tech blitz” day, and I know he loves all things computer. I had hoped that this would encourage and expand our communication as parents have a hard enough time talking to their teenagers, but when they are on the…