As a parent of an autistic child, you’re your child’s best advocate. The school year can bring excitement—but also uncertainty. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process confidently, using available New Jersey resources. 1. Understand and Navigate Special Education Rights (IDEA & IEP) New Jersey public schools are required to provide services…
A major study published in Nature Genetics has found that autism isn’t a single condition, but comprises at least four biologically distinct subtypes—each with its own genetic footprints, developmental patterns, and support needs. Understanding these profiles can help you better support your child’s unique journey. About the Study Researchers from Princeton University, the Simons Foundation,…
Recent developments in autism research and advocacy reveal significant trends in diagnosis rates, genetic discoveries, potential treatments, and evolving perspectives on communication and comorbidities. Rising Autism Prevalence in the U.S. 1. Rising Autism Prevalence in the U.S. The CDC’s 2022 data shows that 1 in 31 children (3.2%) in the U.S. are diagnosed with autism…
A transformative $50 million donation from the Lurie family will establish the Lurie Autism Institute, an ambitious collaboration between Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) and Penn Medicine focused on advancing autism research and care across the lifespan. The contribution is the largest single gift ever directed to U.S. academic medical centers for autism. More than 75 million…
Living with autism as an adult can present unique challenges, especially when it comes to managing anxiety. Social interactions, sensory overload, and changes in routine can all contribute to heightened stress levels. While there is no one-size-fits-all solution, research and real-life experience increasingly point to mindfulness as a powerful tool for easing anxiety in autistic…
Raising a child with autism presents significant challenges no matter where you live—but for parents in New Jersey, there are unique obstacles and systemic hurdles that can make the journey even more complex. From navigating school services to accessing therapy and understanding the state’s insurance and Medicaid policies, New Jersey families often find themselves in…
As the school year winds down and summer approaches, families of children receiving Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy often face a shift in routine. The structured schedules of the school year are replaced with the flexibility of summer — and while that freedom can be refreshing, it also presents challenges for maintaining consistency in therapy….
As our understanding of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) continues to evolve, recent research has shed light on the developmental milestones of children with autism and underscored the pivotal role parents play in supporting their child’s growth. Recent Findings on Developmental Milestones: Children with autism often experience delays or differences in reaching developmental milestones across various…
A trip to Disney can be a dream come true for many families, but for parents of children with autism, it can also feel overwhelming. With sensory challenges, routine disruptions, and long lines, it’s easy to wonder if the magic is worth the effort. The good news? It absolutely can be—with the right preparation. …
For many families of children with autism, Medicaid is a lifeline, providing essential services such as Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), speech therapy, occupational therapy, and more. If the government cuts Medicaid funding, these families could face serious challenges in accessing the support their children need to thrive. How Medicaid Cuts Could Impact Autism Services for…