Special Needs

Want to learn more about special needs? Check out our articles written by experts and get actionable information about autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, sensory processing disorder and more! You can also receive a weekly email digest of our blog. Sign up at the form below!

autism sensory issues blog post

What You Need to Know About Autism and Sensory Issues

by Alescia Ford MS OTR/L, ATP June 01, 2018 1 Comment

75% of children with autism have sensory processing disorder, which leads to a special blend of autistic sensory issues. Learn more about this dual diagnosis, as well as where to start learning about supporting sensory issues for those with autism.
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What is Autism Spectrum Disorder blog post

What Is Autism Spectrum Disorder?

by Alescia Ford MS OTR/L, ATP April 04, 2018

Whatever your reason for wanting to inform yourself on what Autism Spectrum Disorder is, our article will provide you with the information you need to seek additional resources and be a more conscious citizen in your interactions with people on the autism spectrum.
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history of autism blog post

What is the History of Autism Spectrum Disorder?

by Casey Ames March 30, 2018 5 Comments

Autism Spectrum Disorder has actually been around much longer than you would expect. It's only been in the last couple decades where it has grown into the national spotlight. Learn about the history of autism, including the first case of autism, in our easy to follow article.
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Sensory Room Ideas blog post

13 Sensory Room Ideas for Home or the Classroom

by Molly Shaw Wilson MS OTR/L BCP February 21, 2018 9 Comments

A sensory room is a place designed to meet the unique sensory needs for kids with autism and SPD. It's easy to create a room at home or in school with these Top 10 Ideas!
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Occupational Therapy for Autism blog post

How does Occupational Therapy help kids with autism?

by Shea Brogren, MOT, OTR/L February 15, 2018 1 Comment

Children with autism and sensory processing difficulties often receive occupational therapy services as a way to help build skills in the areas needed to complete daily activities. Check out this article to find out exactly how OT can be beneficial.
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sensory processing disorder and sleep

What to Know about Sensory Processing Disorder and Sleep

by Alescia Ford MS OTR/L, ATP January 17, 2018 1 Comment

For children with sensory processing disorder, sleep problems can further compound difficulties with self-regulation. Learn more about how certain factors cause sleeping issues for those with sensory processing disorder and strategies to help improve sleep.
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Sensory Brush Benefits blog post

What are the Benefits of a Sensory Brush or The Wilbarger Brushing Protocol?

by Molly Shaw Wilson MS OTR/L BCP January 03, 2018 15 Comments

A sensory brush is used as part of the Wilbarger brushing protocol and can be part of a sensory diet to help improve self-regulation for those with SPD. Learn exactly what the benefits are, as well as the Wilbarger brushing protocol instructions.
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oral sensory toys blog post

Could Oral Sensory Toys Help Your Child?

by Alescia Ford MS OTR/L, ATP January 03, 2018 5 Comments

If your child sucks, chews, or bites on clothing, hair, and fingers, sensory toys may help by adding an oral sensory tool may help by promoting self-regulation. 75% of children with autism have some form of sensory processing disorder. See if your child could benefit from a oral sensory toy.
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sensory wiggle seat blog post

Could a Sensory Wiggle Seat Help Your Child Focus?

by Alescia Ford MS OTR/L, ATP December 14, 2017

Sensory wiggle seats are great sensory tools to help your child stay focused by allowing for subtle movements and adjustments while sitting. They can help for ADHD, Autism, or Sensory Processing Disorder! Active seating is becoming more and more popular in classrooms. Find out why here!
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sensory seeking activities blog post

Our 10 Favorite Sensory Seeking Activities for Children

by Alescia Ford MS OTR/L, ATP November 01, 2017 5 Comments

If your child is a "sensory seeker", consider adding these 10 sensory activities to your child's sensory diet to help promote regulation throughout the day.
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sensory clothing blog post

Could Sensory Friendly Clothes Help Your Child?

by Jessica Hill, COTA/L & Rachel Harrington, COTA/L, AC October 18, 2017 1 Comment

Children with sensory processing disorder (SPD) often struggle with sensory defensiveness, which is low tolerance to sensory stimuli. Because of this, sometimes they don't like normal clothing. Learn how sensory clothing can help your child feel more comfortable!
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sleep and autism blog post

What You Need to Know About Autism and Sleep

by Alescia Ford MS OTR/L, ATP October 04, 2017 1 Comment

80% of children with autism have sleep problems. Our guide gives an overview of autism sleep issues, as well as the 11 best tips for how to get an autistic child to sleep.
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