Blog Category: Early Development
The Manifestation of ADHD in Biological Boys and Girls
By: Hanah Allen, MSW Intern and Juno Ottathengil, LLMSW
January 17, 2025
ADHD is marked by specific symptoms such as impulsiveness, difficulty staying on task, frequent mood swings, and more. Although these are very common symptoms of ADHD, this disorder can manifest and present in different ways based on gender and age.
Gender Expression and Autism Spectrum Disorder
By: Emily Doane, MSW Intern & Juno Ottathengil, LLMSW
November 15, 2024
Since 2010, there has been a link shown in research between the autism population and an increased rate of reported gender dysphoria or gender incongruent feelings. We provide evidence-based research to further discuss this link...
Embracing a Sensory-Friendly and Inclusive Halloween: Tips for All Families
By: Yexenia Vanegas and Janelle Schenk, LMSW
October 11, 2024
Halloween is a delightful holiday, filled with fun and a bit of harmless fright. But it’s essential that we strive to ensure it’s an enjoyable experience for everyone.
De-escalation Strategies
By: Christine Charpie, MSW Intern & Janelle Schenk, LMSW
August 23, 2024
De-escalation techniques are crucial for managing high-stress situations. Read on for tips and strategies to add to your tool box..
Imaginary Friends
By: Maisy Seale, MSW intern & Janelle Schenk, LMSW
August 2, 2024
Imaginary friends are normal (65% of children have them!), but we understand parent's concerns when the imaginary friend acts bossy. We will provide some clarity about imaginary friends, and some tips for handling those who are getting out of hand.
Neuroaffirming Approaches for Discussing Disability
By: Jessica Tschida, M.A., TLLP, and Janelle Schenk, LMSW
July 19, 2024
Discussing disability in a neuroaffirming manner at home and within clinical services can have important and positive implications for disabled individuals. Read on to learn more about the Social Model for understanding disability.
Self-Regulation Strategies for Parents of Neurodivergent Children
By: Shreeja Vachhani, MSW Intern & Janelle Schenk, LMSW
July 12, 2024
Parenting can be tough, even under the best circumstances, and managing stress is an essential part of the journey. We have put together a few practical, and easy-to-implement, self-regulation strategies designed to support when emotions run high.
Socioeconomic Status & Autism Spectrum Disorder
By: Christine Charpie, MSW Intern & Janelle Schenk, LMSW
June 28, 2024
Improving access and education about autism is crucial for reducing socioeconomic disparities in obtaining services related to ASD. Read on for an overview of the current research on SES and ASD; including two studies that gave differing conclusions.
Water Safety
By: Maisy Seale, MSW Intern & Janelle Schenk, LMSW
June 21, 2024
Swimming can be one of the most thrilling parts of summer for a child, but it can also be one of the most dangerous. Take time to create appropriate safety plans, now, for a worry-free summer!
Dual Diagnosis of Down Syndrome and Autism Spectrum Disorder
By: Yadira Estrada, MSW Intern and Janelle Schenk, LMSW
May 23, 2024
This blog post will provide information about Down Syndrome, Autism, and the dual diagnosis of DS and ASD, as well as considerations of Intellectual Disability.
Strengths of Autistic Children
By: Shreeja Vachhani, MSW Intern & Janelle Schenk, LMSW
April 26, 2024
As you read through this blog, you will learn about the diverse strengths of autistic children and discover how embracing these strengths can lead to positive outcomes and a deeper understanding of neurodiversity.
New Perspective on Optimal Outcome for Kids with Autism Spectrum Disorder
By: Yexenia Vanegas, MSW Intern and Janelle Schenk, LMSW
June 23, 2023
Neurodivergence is a framework which rejects the view of ASD as being a pathological disorder and instead interprets ASD as the brain functioning differently than the (neuro) typical person. New research has suggested a reframing of what “Optimal Outcome” means for such a diverse, population.