Author name: Alfred J. Amado, PhD

Breaking the cycle of negative behaviors in children with autism can seem overwhelming, but it’s not an impossible task. Many parents face this challenge daily, seeking ways to manage behaviors that can disrupt family life and hinder a child’s development. The key lies in consistent therapy, a powerful approach that brings structure and predictability to […]

Raising a child with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) can be a demanding journey, full of joyful moments and unique challenges. For parents in Silver Spring, navigating daily tasks while providing continuous care can become overwhelming. Balancing work, household duties, and personal time often takes a backseat, leading to stress and exhaustion. Finding ways to recharge

Many kids with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) have behaviors called “stimming.” Short for self-stimulatory behavior, stimming helps them manage their surroundings and feelings. It might look like flapping hands, rocking back and forth, or repeating sounds. For kids with ASD, these actions provide comfort and predictability when the world feels overwhelming. Although stimming is generally

Preparing for your child’s autism diagnostic testing can feel like packing for an important trip. It helps to know what to bring along to make the experience as smooth as possible. This testing isn’t just about answering questions. It’s a chance to understand more about your child and how they interact with the world. Think

Starting school is a big step for any child and their families. It’s filled with new friends, new routines, and lots of learning opportunities. However, for some children, particularly those with unique needs, this transition can feel overwhelming. This shift from a familiar home environment to a bustling school setting can bring about feelings of

Accurately diagnosing autism can be a huge relief for families navigating their child’s development. Understanding what’s behind certain behaviors provides a clearer path forward, allowing for more tailored support and intervention. Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) affects children differently, with each exhibiting a unique blend of traits. Testing for ASD allows families to understand these differences

Emotional regulation is a challenge many kids face, but for those with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), it can be even more complex. Understanding their emotions and managing them effectively is crucial for their overall development. Emotional regulation helps children interact more smoothly with others and participate in everyday activities. Without these skills, daily life can

Consistency is like the steady beat that keeps the rhythm going in a song—it holds everything together. In autism therapy, keeping things consistent is key to making progress. Many families find that sticking to a regular routine helps their kids thrive. It creates a comforting pattern that children with autism can rely on. When routines

ABA Therapy, or Applied Behavior Analysis, often becomes a topic of conversation among parents looking to support their children’s development in effective ways. This therapy is particularly supportive for kids who display challenging behaviors, as it focuses on understanding and improving these behaviors through structured techniques. Recognizing when your child’s behavior might benefit from ABA

Cognitive assessments can feel a bit mysterious for parents. Picture a tool that holds the key to unlocking a deeper understanding of your child’s learning abilities. That’s what a cognitive assessment offers. These evaluations help reveal how a child’s brain processes information, tackling essential questions about memory, reasoning, and problem-solving skills. Grasping these results is