It is a myth that all autistic people have an intellectual disability. The truth is that 2/3 of people on the spectrum have average or above-average IQs. IQ is not an indicator of future progress. IQ tests measure static intelligence, whereas (RDI®) treatment progress is measured by how well the child can navigate the dynamic world.
Basics of Autism
All Blog Categories
What Does It Mean That Autism Is a Spectrum?
Before we fully understood autism, we used terms like ‘Asperger’s,’ ‘high-functioning,’ and ‘low-functioning’ that separated autistics into categories. Today we tend to use ‘autistic’ for all people on the spectrum. Why? Because all autistic people experience autism, and life, differently, but they all share similar behaviors and challenges.
‘High-Functioning’ vs. ‘Low-Functioning’ Autism
The “high-functioning” and “low-functioning” labels for autistic people were coined in the 1980s. Sadly, once the research and medical community came to terms and realized that the high-functioning and low-functioning labels were inaccurate and unneeded, the general population had already noticed the terminology and the labeling continues to be used today.
Re-Post: The New ABA Textbook
Re-post of “The New ABA Textbook by Ann Memmott.
Is Your Child Exhibiting Signs of Autism? When Should You Seek Out a Diagnosis?
There are a lot of different thoughts and feelings happening when you think your child might have autism. Sometimes it’s difficult to know whether your child is on the autism spectrum, if there’s a developmental delay, or if your child is just developing just a little later than usual. When it comes to what may be autism symptoms, what causes you to seek out a diagnosis?
Why Is It Harder for Girls to Be Diagnosed with Autism?
Autism screening criteria are based on data collected mainly from the studies of autistic boys. Why? Historically, the diagnosis of autism has been more common in boys than girls, so scientists have focused their research on boys–and now girls with autism are being overlooked.
RDI® is Essential to Everyone
Webinar with Kamini Lahkani: RDI® autism programs are thought of as only for “high functioning” individuals or children. But anyone, no matter their age can benefit from RDI®!
Selective Mutism: What Is It and Why Does it Happen?
Selective mutism is the inability to speak or communicate effectively in situations where one is overwhelmed or has anxiety. How does it relate to autism?
Autism is NOT: 8 behaviors that are common stereotypes of “autism behaviors”
There are still so many misconceptions and misunderstandings around autism. These misunderstandings can cause a great deal of pain because they can perpetuate harmful stereotypes.
How to Measure Success in Your Child’s Autism Therapy
Have you ever asked yourself if your child’s autism therapy is working? You aren’t alone in your thoughts.
Caring For Children And Teens With Special Needs During A Global Pandemic
Every now and then I come across a message so timely, an interview so relevant that I find myself wanting it to arrive in your inbox before I’ve even sent it. Dr. Sarah Wayland, RDI®️️ parent...
RDI®️️ At Home: Parenting in a Challenging Time
It’s Sunday—like no Sunday we’ve ever known. Maisie and Pete: This short description of steps to maintain and healthy lifestyle while our children are home all day will quickly pinpoint important...
Online Therapy to Help Autism
Parents of autistic children often seek alternative methods of therapy that fit into their busy schedules and work in their child’s most effective learning environment—the home. For this reason, online therapy is a growing and popular choice.
You can do RDI anywhere!
What is RDI, how is it implemented and how the online platform means less dependence on outside therapists.
What is an Autism Meltdown?
It helps parents once they understand what a meltdown is, as then you are able to gain the ability to foresee the signs of a meltdown, as well as identify the causes, and reduce the frequency.
Speech Therapy Goals for Autism
In the RDI program, our focus is not on language when we talk about speech therapy, it is about RDI lifestyle and daily life opportunities, simple life activities that promote mutual communication.
Non-Verbal Communication Tips
By practicing consistent directive methods, you can master communication challenges, even if your child with ASD is non-verbal.
Asperger Syndrome: 9 Things You Didn’t Know About This Invisible Disability
Learn about common signs that may identify those with Asperger syndrome, and how it may affect others in their life.
Treating Your Autistic Child with Respect
How to Treat Your Autistic Child Respectfully and Create a Better Family Life
When it’s OK, to Say NO
There are wonderful (autism-trained) professionals out there, who will provide expertise and consider what you have to say too – those are the professionals who you should surround yourself with.
Are Autistic Individuals Disabled or Brilliant?
We focus so much on the ‘box’ or a ‘certain way of being’ that we look at everything else (autistic) as ‘abnormal.’
After the Autism Diagnosis
What happens next?
To Make Your Child With Autism Thrive, You Must Do This First
To every mother who wants to wants to live a happier and healthier life – it’s never too late.
Does Your Child’s Stimming Worry You?
Stimming is not the enemy. The enemy is how we view it.
This is Better Than Eye Contact For Your Child
Of course, you want your child to look at you. But have you thought how it feels for him?
Autism Spectrum Disorders: How to do Less And Achieve More
Is he hyperactive? Does he lack eye contact, show limited speech, poor motor skills, difficulties with social interaction, crying spells, sleeping problems, or other health issues?
This Concept Will Challenge Everything You’ve Learned About Autism
Static thinking will take your child through school. But dynamic thinking will take your child through life.
Frames of Reference in Autism
I think that this may be the first time I have truly (TRULY) understood how difficult it is for people with autism to understand the social-emotional world. And how utterly effortless it is for others.
Setting up the Most Effective Program for Our Children
It took me years to learn that it’s easy to make a child ‘do something’. The difficulty lies in awakening the spirit in them to want to do things on their own.
5 Ways to Stop Imprisoning Individuals With Autism
Making sure our attitudes are not keeping our children with ASD hidden in a box.
Getting to the Heart of the Child
ASD interferes with children’s ability to integrate or retain the typical learning opportunities…
Sifting Truth from Myth in Autism Land
True or False: IQ is no indicator of future progress.
Autism Advocacy: Beyond Awareness
So…once they have your attention, then what?
Using RDI for Non-Speaking Children with Profound Movement Disorder
What I have seen these children overcome speaks volumes…
A Different Kind of Autism Journey: By LorRainne Jones
RDI is life altering and not just for children with autism and their families.