On the Joy of Learning
I hear a lot of questions from parents and professionals on how to motivate autistic children. But motivation itself isn’t the issue.
Author: Heather Cook
On Non-Speaking Autism, Part 2
Non-speaking autism is often misunderstood as an intellectual disability. I think something very different is going on.
On Non-Speaking Autism, Part 1
Non-speaking autism is often misunderstood as an intellectual disability. I think something very different is going on.
Social Skills, the Autistic Way
Social skills can be learned. Yes, even by autistic people. But they aren’t often taught to us autistics in the way that autistics learn them.
Hidden Stressors at Home
When your senses tell you that everything hurts, even home can be a minefield. Here’s some tips to help your sensory defensive child be happier in your home.
Why I don’t recommend ABA
ABA is one of the most common interventions for Autistic kids, yet among Autistic adults it is one of the most reviled. The important question, though, is why.
On Shyness and Social Anxiety
Social anxiety, or what is often called shyness, is extremely common among autistic kids and adults. Here’s the short version of how it develops.
A Quick Q&A on Behavior Therapy
Behavior therapies have been the standard “treatment” for autism for a long time, but are losing popularity. Here’s a little on my position in this regard.
What’s stimming really about?
Stimming is a bit different from other challenging behaviors because it’s both a result of stress and a strategy to calm down. It is one of the effective strategies we develop naturally.
On Autistic Stress
Autistics get stressed out by a lot more things than most people, and what stresses us, and why, is often surprising to others. Here’s the critical first step to helping.
Autistic Strengths
Autism isn’t just challenges. There are some wonderful strengths and attributes as well.
What’s Behind Challenging Behaviors?
Do you find autistic meltdowns challenging? Or rigid thinking, hiding in the bedroom, excessive video gaming, anger issues, etc.? Want to know what’s really going on?
