Author name: Alfred J. Amado, PhD

During the colder months, many parents notice their children becoming more withdrawn, irritable, or simply not like themselves. These seasonal shifts in mood often catch caregivers by surprise, especially when routines start to break down or children seem more sensitive than usual. It’s common in Silver Spring, MD, to hear from families wondering why their […]

ASD testing can bring some peace of mind to families who have noticed their child is struggling with behavior, communication, or daily routines. During the colder months, many families in Silver Spring start looking more closely at these challenges, especially when indoor time stretches longer and the structure of school eases up. Winter often gives

After winter break, it can be tough getting kids back into the swing of school routines. For families in Wheaton, those early January mornings can feel long and chaotic. When a child has autism, transitions like these can become even harder. Classrooms may feel unfamiliar again, and tasks like dressing, getting out the door, or

Across Washington, DC, many families start a new year feeling like daily life is overflowing. Between packed work schedules, shifting routines, and kids adjusting to school demands again, stress can rise quickly. It might show up in small ways, a child refusing to get dressed in the morning, or an argument over dinner. Those moments

Winter in Bethesda brings holiday lights, cozy gatherings, and more social events than usual. But for children with autism, this change in pace often brings more anxiety than excitement. Stepping into crowded rooms, handling unfamiliar routines, or wearing heavy winter clothes can make these outings difficult, for both the child and their family. An autism

After a relaxing winter break, getting back into a normal routine can feel challenging for just about anyone. But for kids with autism, that change can be especially uncomfortable. The switch from family time and flexible schedules to classroom work and early bedtimes does not always go smoothly. We understand how this transition can shake

As the year draws to a close, people often find themselves caught up in the hustle and bustle of holiday celebrations, travel plans, and family gatherings. Amidst all these activities, it’s easy to overlook our mental well-being. This is why performing a year-end mental health check-in can be incredibly valuable. Taking a moment to pause

As summer winds down, parents and educators start gearing up for the new school year. With fresh books and supplies, it’s also a good moment to consider something else: getting a clear picture of a child’s learning style and cognitive strengths. Cognitive assessments play an important role in planning for school success, offering insights beyond

As the new year approaches, many families take time to reflect on their lives and set resolutions for improvement. For families involved in counseling, these resolutions can provide an opportunity to strengthen bonds and improve overall well-being. While setting resolutions might often seem like a ritual, it holds special significance for families working through the

Autism affects many children across the globe, and early diagnosis plays a significant role in better understanding and managing the condition. Recognizing signs early allows for timely interventions that can make a substantial difference in a child’s development. As more families become knowledgeable about autism, they often wonder about the right time and reasons to