August 25, 2015
Self-regulation refers to the child’s ability to develop his or her own strategies to develop attention, to self-soothe when upset, to inhibit impulses, and to organize his/her behavior for the task at hand. The child learns to gradually develop self-regulation strategies since birth, initially through the actions of the primary caregiver, and later on by himself. (more…)
July 21, 2015
My experience over the years working as an RDI® consultant has motivated me to address an area that I find an obstacle to most children’s dynamic growth. This is the amount of time spent using electronics or involved in other special interest activities. This is a pervasive problem in our society today, one which is not limited to children on the autism spectrum. (more…)
June 23, 2015
Therapy pets and therapy dogs in particular can have a positive and significant impact on many individuals, including those with developmental disabilities, autism spectrum disorders, depression, and anxiety. According to Katcher, Friedmann, Beck & Lynch (1983), evidence supports the idea that the presence of companion animals can reduce stress. (more…)
May 23, 2015
Ideally, it would be great if we did things, even challenging things, because we were all motivated intrinsically, or internally. Research shows that when external rewards are involved, intrinsic motivation decreases and when verbal feedback is used intrinsic motivation increases (Click here for full research article). (more…)
March 23, 2015
Sensory processing disorder is a condition in which the brain has trouble receiving and responding to information that comes in through the senses. The condition used to be called sensory integration dysfunction. Sensory processing disorder can affect all areas of functioning, including behavior regulation, academic learning, motor skills, social interaction, vocational success, and overall development of independence.
February 23, 2015
Homework can be a frustrating time for many students and their families. Many students with learning disabilities, ADD/ADHD, Autism, Asperger’s, and other conditions tend to become dysregulated during challenging tasks such as homework. The reasons for struggling with homework can be different for every student; however, we have found that certain strategies tend to be helpful with most students. (more…)
