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!

how heavy should a weighted blanket be blog post

How Heavy Should a Weighted Blanket Be?

by Alescia Ford MS OTR/L, ATP April 08, 2019

There is a lot to consider when choosing a weighted blanket. Most important is how heavy your weighted blanket should be. Depending on the individual's weight, there is a general guideline to follow.
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What is proprioception blog post

What is Proprioception? Learn about Your "Sixth Sense"

by Molly Shaw Wilson MS OTR/L BCP April 04, 2019

Proprioception is known as the "sixth sense". But what is it exactly? Learn about proprioception, disorders of the proprioceptive system, and examples of activities and exercises to help your child organize their sensory system.
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social stories for autism blog post

All About Social Stories for Kids with Autism

by Alescia Ford MS OTR/L, ATP March 29, 2019 2 Comments

Difficulty with social interactions and communication skills is typical for children with autism. Social stories are a tool to teach necessary social skills because real-life situations are broken down into concrete observations, sequences, or behaviors. Read more to learn about social stories, where to find them and how to write your own!
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weighted blankets for toddlers blog post

Do Weighted Blankets Work for Toddlers?

by Molly Shaw Wilson MS OTR/L BCP March 19, 2019 4 Comments

Many toddlers have difficulty getting a good night's sleep. Weighted blankets for toddlers can be an effective strategy to improve sleep. However, there are some very important safety principles to follow. Learn this and more in this article.
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toys for kids with autism blog post

101 of The Best toys for Kids with Autism

by Alescia Ford MS OTR/L, ATP March 09, 2019 3 Comments

Looking for the right autism toy for your child, classroom, or therapy clients? Check out our list of the best toys for sensory input, skill development, and more!
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Everything You Need to Know About Fidget Toys for Anxiety & ADHD

Everything You Need to Know About Fidget Toys for Anxiety & ADHD

by Alescia Ford MS OTR/L, ATP March 08, 2019 1 Comment

Can a fidget toy help your anxiety or ADHD? We take a look at the science behind them and how they can actually alleviate anxiety and ADHD symptoms.
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Calming Tantrums and Meltdowns in Autism blog post

The Best Strategies for Calming Autistic Tantrums and Meltdowns

by Alescia Ford MS OTR/L, ATP March 07, 2019 30 Comments

There is a difference between an autistic meltdown and an autistic tantrum. In this article, learn the difference between each and how to best calming strategies for children with autism.
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Common medications for autism

Common Medications for Autism - Can They Help?

by Molly Shaw Wilson MS OTR/L BCP March 04, 2019

When the behaviors and symptoms of autism are so severe they interfere with daily life and cannot be alleviated by traditional interventions, parents sometimes look to medications to help. There are many medications available. We have information to help figure out what's out there and what to consider before making a decision.
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autism social skills blog post

The Go-To Guide to Social Skills and Autism

by Shea Brogren, MOT, OTR/L February 19, 2019 5 Comments

All children with autism show delays in social skills. Whether it's making proper eye contact or taking turns when engaging in conversation, there are many ways to help. In this article, we will explore the most effective interventions to encourage and improve social skills in children with autism.
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Life Planning for Special Needs

Life Planning for your Special Needs Child: Building Your Blueprint

by Jacqueline Beirne February 18, 2019 1 Comment

This is the first article in our series about planning for the future for your special needs child. If you often worry about your child's future, have questions about financial planning for your special needs child, or maybe avoid the other difficult questions that should be answered, we're here to help.
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Music Therapy for Autism

The Benefits of Music Therapy for Kids with Autism

by Curtis Dean February 18, 2019 5 Comments

Music therapy for kids with autism is shown to have many benefits. From its calming effects to encouraging verbal communication, autism and music go hand in hand. Learn how music therapy is used and why it might be the right choice for your child.
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weighted blankets for adhd blog post

Do Weighted Blankets Work for ADHD?

by Casey Ames January 31, 2019 4 Comments

Weighted blankets can offer a number of benefits for those with ADHD. Not only can they improve classroom performance, but also sleep, anxiety, and relaxation. We take a look at the science behind weighted blankets, as well as how to choose the right size.
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