Autism and autism spectrum disorder (ASD) are general terms for a group of complex neurodevelopmental disorders. The new diagnostic classification system (DSM-5, May 2013) combines the previous subcategories of autistic disorder, Asperger’s disorder, childhood disintegrative disorder, and pervasive developmental disorder–not otherwise specified (PDD-NOS) into the one category of ASD. Autism spectrum disorder is present early in… Read more Autism Spectrum Disorder
Author: Kylie Muccilli
Artists with Disabilities: Exhibiting in a Gallery
An artist with a disability is like any other artist. A creative urge from within encourages the need to communicate through a work of art. Although the process itself is quite satisfying, the artist needs to share the work and allow it to touch the lives of others. Sharing artwork professionally may seem difficult, but… Read more Artists with Disabilities: Exhibiting in a Gallery
Selecting a Behavioral Services Provider
When choosing a behavioral provider there are areas of consideration that will help you to make an effective selection. It is important to understand the provider’s governing philosophy on behavior intervention and their qualifications. Searching and Qualifications A good place to start a search is by asking other families for recommendations. Autism support agencies often… Read more Selecting a Behavioral Services Provider
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)
What is Applied Behavior Analysis? ABA is a science that studies the way people interact with their environments, including observable events, sensory experiences, and internal states, and how those interactions impact individuals and their future interactions. It is not a single intervention or approach. ABA has many applications and usages, including teaching new skills. A… Read more Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)
Angelman Syndrome
Angelman syndrome is a genetic disorder that causes developmental delay and neurological problems. Angelman syndrome is thought to occur in about 1 in 15,000 births. The United States and Canada have an estimated 5,000-10,000 individuals living with Angelman syndrome. What causes Angelman syndrome? Individuals with Angelman syndrome usually are missing a gene on the 15th… Read more Angelman Syndrome
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
ADHD occurs in 8% to 10% of school-age children. Primary characteristics include challenges with staying focused and paying attention, controlling behavior, and managing activity level. ADHD is about 3 times more common in boys than in girls and occurs across all racial, ethnic, and social groups. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention… Read more Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)