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ASD Meltdown-Management: Key Points for Parents of Kids on the Autism Spectrum

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A meltdown is a condition where the youngster with ASD level 1, or High Functioning Autism, temporarily loses control due to  emotional responses to environmental factors . It generally appears that the youngster has lost control over a single and specific issue, however this is very rarely the case.  Usually, the problem is the accumulation of a number of irritations which could span a fairly long period of time, particularly given the strong long-term memory abilities of young people on the autism spectrum. Wh y T he Problems Seem Hidden— ASD   kids don't tend to give a lot of clues that they are very irritated: Often ASD child-grievances are aired as part of their normal conversation and may even be interpreted by NTs (i.e., neurotypicals, or people without autism) as part of their standard whining. Some things which annoy ASD kids would not be considered annoying to NTs, and this makes NT's less likely to pick up on a potential problem. Their facial expressions very often w

Preventing Meltdowns in Students with ASD: Advice for Teachers

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"Do you have any simple, 'cut-to-the-chase' advice I could share with my son's teacher (who seems to know very little about how to handle students on the autism spectrum who 'meltdown')? He is currently in the 6th grade and has a new teacher." Sure. Here goes... Students with ASD level 1, or High Functioning Autism (HFA), desperately need support from educators when they struggle with emotional and behavioral issues in school. Here are many helpful strategies that every teacher should know: HFA can co-exist with other disorders (e.g., ADHD, depression, anxiety). But mostly, this disorder affects the ability to socialize. These youngsters have difficulty recognizing facial expressions, sarcasm, and teasing, and struggle to adapt to unexpected changes in routine. Their interests tend to be very narrow, and this can limit their capacity to relate to others. Due to these struggles, kids on the autism spectrum oftentimes experience anger, fear, sa

Is it ASD, ADHD, or Both?

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"My 6-year-old son was diagnosed with ADHD at age 5. But now we are seeing signs that he may have 'high functioning' autism. What percentage of ADHD children also have autism? Is a dual diagnosis common?" Most kids with ASD level 1 (high functioning autism) don’t receive that diagnosis until after age 6. Usually, they are diagnosed with ADHD as toddlers. Part of the reason is that physicians routinely screen kids for ADHD but not for autism.    Another reason is that an ASD child's social impairment becomes more evident once he starts school. Finally, physicians are reluctant to label a youngster "autistic." It is okay - and even a badge of honor - to have a hyperactive youngster , but it is another thing entirely to have an autistic youngster . Physicians make their diagnoses based on the youngster’s behaviors. Since kids with ADHD and ASD share similar behaviors, the two can appear to overlap. However, there is a fundamental difference between th

Dealing with Difficult ASD-related Behavior: Critical Tips for Parents

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"I need some advice on how to handle behavior problems in my child with ASD, such as how to use the right discipline, dealing with his obsessions, sibling issues, sleep problems, school-related problems, and acting-out behavior in public. Thanks!" Disciplining kids displaying ASD-related behavior will often require an approach which is somewhat unique to that of "typical" kids. Finding the balance between understanding the needs of a youngster with ASD - and discipline which is age appropriate and situationally necessary - is achievable when applying some simple, yet effective strategies. These strategies can be implemented both at home and in more public settings. General Behavior Problems— Traditional discipline may fail to produce the desired results for kids with ASD level 1 ("high-functioning autism"), primarily because they are unable to appreciate the consequences of their actions. Consequently, punitive measures are apt to exacerbate the type of

ASD Level 1: Quick Facts for Teachers

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"Would you have a simple summary, kind of a snapshot, that describes the most relevant aspects of ASD Level 1 that I can give my son's teacher so that she can get a basic understanding of this disorder without having to read a book on it?" Sure! Just copy and paste the quick facts below, and give it to the teacher... ASD Level 1: is a developmental disorder, not a disease or a form of genius affects language less, but does present with difficulties in appropriate speech and communicative development affects the way a child relates to others is a highly functional form of autism leads to difficulties in reading non-verbal cues is characterized by social interaction difficulties and impairments related to a restricted, repetitive, stereotype behavior is not the result of "bad parenting" is often confused with ADD and ADHD is not classified as a learning disability, but it is a disorder that impacts learning   Treatment: can help children

How Chiropractic Care Can Help Kids With ASD

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  Source: https://unsplash.com/photos/IG96K_HiDk0 Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) describes a combination of neurodevelopmental disorders affecting communication and social interaction. While there is no cure for ASD, several alternative therapies can help kids living with autism lead a normal and productive life. If you thought you’ve explored all autistic treatment options , chances are you haven’t considered seeing a chiropractor. Most people think chiropractors adjust and manipulate the body into submission. However, chiropractors improve the nervous system and spine function, which in turn improves other body systems. Chiropractic adjustments also improve neurological functions , enhancing social behavior, mood, focus, and concentration. If your child is struggling with autistic spectrum disorder, a Chiropractor Portland, OR , can help in the following ways. 1. Offers early interventions The earlier you identify the signs of ASD , the sooner your child can get the help