Raising Neurodiverse Children: From Parent to Practitioner Being a parent has its own set of challenges. Challenges that can be so unique that a practitioner may have to get creative with evidenced-based interventions. Being family of neurodiverse children AND a practitioner is a completely different story. Especially 10-15 years ago. This is a peek into my view. Let’s talk about this.  Many years ago, I knew my then 2-year-old daughter was different. Whenever anyone asked me how she was different, I could never put my thoughts adequately into words. “She is just different.” The general r ..read more

Spring Break Fun for Families with Children with Autism Spring break is a wonderful time for families to bond, relax, and engage in activities that are both fun and supportive of children with autism. Creating an enjoyable and stress-free break requires a bit of planning and flexibility, but the rewards are immense. Here are some spring break activities designed to cater to the unique needs and strengths of children with autism, ensuring a memorable and enriching time for the whole family. 1. Nature Walks and Scavenger Hunts Nature has a calming effect on many children with autism. Plan a natu ..read more

Navigating Emotional Landscapes: Strategies for Parents to Support Each Other and Their Child with Autism Receiving an autism diagnosis for your child can evoke a complex tapestry of emotions, from confusion and concern to love and determination. As parents embark on this journey together, supporting each other becomes as crucial as supporting their child. This blog explores the emotional dynamics within families navigating an autism diagnosis, offering practical advice to foster resilience, communication, and a balanced approach to caregiving. Understanding the Emotional Impact The initial ph ..read more

Navigating the Autism Journey: Empowering Tips for New Parents Embarking on the autism journey can be overwhelming for new parents. Understanding autism, accessing resources, and nurturing your child’s development are crucial first steps. This blog aims to guide and empower parents who are new to the autism community. Understanding Autism: Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a developmental disorder with a spectrum of symptoms and abilities. Common characteristics include challenges in social interaction, communication, and repetitive behaviors. Early diagnosis is key, as it allows for earlier i ..read more

2024: Charting a Path for Success in ABA Therapy with Strategic Goal-Setting As the calendar turns to January, we embrace the spirit of new beginnings. This is a time for reflection, planning, and setting goals, not just for ourselves but also for the special children in our lives undergoing Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy. The new year brings a unique opportunity for therapists, parents, and children to collaboratively set realistic and meaningful goals in ABA therapy. Understanding the Importance of Goal-Setting in ABA Therapy ABA therapy is centered around the individual needs of ea ..read more

Setting Achievable Goals: A Guide for Parents of Children on the Autism Spectrum Navigating parenthood is a journey filled with challenges and triumphs, especially when your child is on the autism spectrum. Setting realistic and achievable goals is crucial for fostering growth and development. This guide aims to help you create effective and meaningful goals for your child. Understanding Individual Needs: Recognize that each child on the spectrum is unique. Tailor goals to fit your child’s specific strengths, challenges, and interests. Consult with therapists or educators to understand your c ..read more

Outdoor Adventures in San Antonio for Families with Autism Exploring the great outdoors can be a wonderful experience for families, especially those with children on the autism spectrum. San Antonio offers a range of autism-friendly outdoor activities and places that cater to the sensory needs of these children. This guide aims to help you discover and enjoy these inclusive adventures. Autism-Friendly Outdoor Activities: Sensory-Friendly Parks: Visit Morgan’s Wonderland, the world’s first ultra-accessible theme park designed with individuals with special needs in mind. It offers a fun and saf ..read more

Navigating Autism Resources in Dallas: A Parent’s Guide Discovering the right autism resources in Dallas can be a journey filled with hope and challenges. This guide aims to illuminate the path for parents and caregivers, highlighting valuable resources and support systems available in the city. Support Groups and Communities: Dallas offers several support groups that provide a network of understanding and advice. Organizations like Autism Speaks Dallas and FEAT-NT are excellent platforms for connecting with other families on a similar journey. Educational Workshops and Training: Knowledge is ..read more

Sensory-Friendly December Events in Houston, San Antonio, and Dallas The holiday season is here, and it’s all about inclusivity and joy for everyone. In December 2023, various locations in Houston, San Antonio, and Dallas are hosting sensory-friendly events tailored for individuals with autism spectrum disorder, sensory processing disorder, and other special needs. Here’s a roundup of these events, complete with dates and links for more information. 1. Santa Cares Events Date: Sunday, December 3, 2023 (Check specific location for confirmation) Details: Enjoy a calm Santa Magic photo experience ..read more

Empowering Autism Care at Home: A Comprehensive Guide to In-Home ABA Therapy in Houston, TX For parents navigating the complexities of autism spectrum disorder (ASD), finding effective, compassionate care is paramount. Apara Autism’s in-home ABA (Applied Behavior Analysis) therapy in the Houston, TX area offers a beacon of hope and support. This guide combines essential information about Apara’s services with insights into the benefits of in-home therapy and answers to frequently asked questions. Personalized and Compassionate Care Apara Autism distinguishes itself with a personalized approach ..read more