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Tips for Parents of Teens on the Autism Spectrum: Risky Behaviors & Safety

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Adolescence is a time of stretching boundaries, testing independence, and seeking identity. For autistic teenagers, these years can carry additional risks because of differences in social understanding, sensory processing, and communication. Parents often find themselves caught between wanting to protect their teen and needing to grant them more autonomy. This chapter‑style article explores risky behaviors and safety for autistic teens—how to recognize them, why they happen, and what parents can do to build protective systems while preserving trust. Why Risk Looks Different in Autistic Teens Autistic teens may engage in risky behaviors for reasons distinct from their neurotypical peers: Sensory seeking or avoidance: Running into the street, climbing, or touching dangerous objects can stem from sensory needs rather than thrill‑seeking. Literal thinking: Difficulty reading hidden dangers, sarcasm, or manipulative intentions in others. Social vulnerability: More likely to ...

Helping Parents Understand & Cope with Their Autistic Teenagers

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Helping Parents Understand & Cope with Their Autistic Teenagers (Foundations + a 7-Day Starter Plan you can use tonight) Big Picture: What “autism in adolescence” actually looks like Autistic teenagers often have the same core profile as in childhood—differences in sensory processing, social communication, and cognitive flexibility—but puberty, new academic demands, and social complexity crank the intensity way up. What you see at home (shutdowns, meltdowns, “defiance,” school refusal, hours of gaming, refusal of hygiene, etc.) is often the nervous system saying “I’m overwhelmed,” not “I don’t care.” Key concepts to keep in mind: Nervous-system first, behavior second. Stress, prediction errors, and sensory load drive most “behavioral” moments. Monotropism. Many autistic teens focus deeply on a few interests. That focus is regulating—use it, don’t fight it. Alexithymia & interoceptive differences. Many teens struggle to identify internal states (e.g., “am I a...

Crucial Strategies for Parents of Challenging Kids on the Autism Spectrum

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    Resources for parents of children and teens on the autism spectrum :   ==> How to Prevent Meltdowns and Tantrums in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder ==> Parenting System that Reduces Defiant Behavior in Teens with Autism Spectrum Disorder ==> Launching Adult Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder: Guide for Parents Who Want to Promote Self-Reliance ==> Teaching Social-Skills and Emotion-Management to Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder ==> Parenting Children and Teens with High-Functioning Autism: Parents' Comprehensive Handbook ==> Unraveling the Mystery Behind High-Functioning Autism: Audio Book ==> Crucial Research-Based Parenting Strategies for Children and Teens with High-Functioning Autism     More articles for parents of children and teens on the autism spectrum :   Social rejection has devastating effects in many areas of functioning. Because the ASD child tends to internalize how others trea...

Helping Teachers Create a Powerful IEP for Your Autistic Child

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  Creating a Powerful IEP --- An Individualized Education Program (IEP) is more than just a legal requirement—it is a roadmap for your child’s educational success. For parents of autistic children, working hand-in-hand with teachers to build an IEP that reflects both strengths and challenges can transform the school experience. Here’s how you can play an active role in helping teachers create a powerful IEP that truly supports your child. 1. Understand the Purpose of the IEP The IEP is designed to give your child access to education in a way that fits their unique learning profile. It covers: Current performance levels (academic, social, emotional, and functional) Goals and objectives tailored to your child’s needs Accommodations and modifications that help them succeed Support services such as speech, occupational therapy, or social skills training When parents clearly understand these components, they can more effectively collaborate with teachers. 2. Sha...