Understanding pragmatic language and autism: supporting social communication through connection and regulation
Many parents are told their autistic child has difficulties with pragmatic language or social communication. Often, this conversation begins when a child struggles with peer interactions, conversational back-and-forth, or navigating social expectations at school. Families may hear phrases like social skills deficits or recommendations focused on teaching children how to behave or communicate more like their peers. These […]
Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) 101
A neurodiversity-affirming guide for families When families first hear the term AAC, many assume it is something used only when a child will never talk. Others worry that introducing AAC means giving up on speech or lowering expectations for their child’s future. As a speech-language pathologist — and as a parent — I often reassure families that […]
The nervous system cost of loving someone who cannot regulate
Caregiving is often framed as a logistical challenge: appointments, therapies, school meetings, paperwork, insurance calls. But for caregivers of children with profound autism and complex needs, the deeper reality is something else entirely. Caregiving at this level is a nervous system experience. Ask anyone who has a baby with dreams rooted in typical expectations of their offspring to […]
Suicide safety in the autistic community: risk factors, warning signs and lifesaving resources
Content Warning: This article discusses suicide and suicidal thoughts within the autistic community. While the focus is on safety, support, and prevention, these topics may feel activating for some readers. Please prioritize your well-being and consider reading with support or taking breaks as needed. “How can we ensure the autistic people in our lives feel […]
My autistic child isn’t talking: An SLP and parent perspective on nonspeaking autism and communication
One of the first questions parents often ask after an autism diagnosis — or when speech delays become noticeable — is: When do autistic children start talking? Closely followed by another question filled with worry: Will my autistic child ever talk? As a speech-language pathologist, I hear these questions often. As a parent of an autistic child, […]
Best autism podcasts to inform and inspire parents
If you are an autistic person or the parent of an autistic child, you’ve likely found yourself searching for guidance. The internet offers an overwhelming amount of information, but not all of it feels trustworthy, relevant or easy to navigate. Sorting through what’s helpful and what isn’t can quickly become exhausting. Podcasts have become one […]
Does Blue Cross Blue Shield cover autism evaluations?
Navigating insurance can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re trying to figure out how to get an autism diagnosis for yourself or your child. If you have Blue Cross Blue Shield autism coverage, understanding what’s included (and what isn’t) is an important first step. In this guide, we’ll walk through what Blue Cross Blue Shield mental […]
NDBI and ABA: Choosing autism therapy that fits your child and family
When your child is first diagnosed with autism, it can feel like you’ve been dropped into a world full of unfamiliar acronyms and terminology. There are many different behavioral intervention options available, and many of them can sound confusingly similar. Figuring out what will best support your child and your family can feel overwhelming at […]
When autism and OCD overlap: what parents need to know
If you’re the parent of an autistic child, you may notice patterns over time that raise new questions. Some experiences may feel connected to autism, while others feel different, more fear-based, or harder for your child to move past. It’s natural to want claor you rity about what’s going on and how to best support […]
Navigating the holidays: a supportive guide for autistic adults
Picture this: it’s the week before a major holiday. Your calendar is packed with gatherings, your usual routines are disrupted, and everywhere you turn there are flashing lights, unfamiliar foods, smells, and expectations to be as “festive” as possible. For autistic adults (and other neurodivergent people) and their families, the holiday season can feel less […]
