Diana Gomez

Back-to-School Anxiety

Back-to-School Anxiety in Children with Autism: A Guide for Families in Virginia

As summer winds down and the school year looms closer, many families find themselves juggling school supply lists, calendar updates, and the emotional rollercoaster that comes with change. For children on the autism spectrum and their caregivers, this transition often comes with an extra layer of complexity: back-to-school anxiety.

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Autistic characters

10 Autistic Characters in Fiction: Why Representation Matters

Autistic characters are finally starting to take their place in the stories we watch, read, and love. For far too long, individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) were left out of the narrative, or shown through inaccurate, one-dimensional portrayals. But in recent years, more creators have taken steps toward honest, respectful representation of the neurodiverse community.

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Autism in teens

Autism in Teens: Identifying the Signs and Navigating the Teenage Years

Adolescence is already a time of rapid change and self-discovery, but for some teenagers, it’s also the period when a long-overlooked neurodevelopmental condition finally comes into focus. Autism in teens is increasingly recognized, not because it begins during the teenage years, but because the demands of adolescence often unmask traits that were previously hidden, misunderstood, or misattributed.

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Books for children with autism

Books for Children with Autism: Stories That Reflect, Inspire, and Connect

There’s something heartwarming about a child seeing themselves in the pages of a book, something affirming, comforting, and even life-changing. For families navigating autism, finding those moments of connection can feel especially powerful. Books for children with autism are more than just bedtime stories or educational resources; they’re bridges to understanding, tools for self-discovery, and pathways to emotional growth.

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Virtual autism testing

Virtual Autism Testing: A Modern Approach to Diagnosis

If you’re reading this, it’s likely because you’re concerned that a loved one may have autism spectrum disorder (ASD), and you’re seeking answers. The first thing to understand is that diagnosing autism involves much more than completing a checklist or having a brief interview with parents. It’s a thorough process that considers a variety of developmental factors. Fortunately, there are now more accessible ways to navigate this journey, including virtual autism testing.

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Holiday cooking with children with ASD

A Guide to Holiday Cooking with Children With ASD

The holiday season is a time for family, celebration, and shared traditions—many of which center around food. But for families with children on the autism spectrum, holiday meals and cooking can bring unique challenges. Sensory sensitivities, picky eating, or a reluctance to try new activities might make parents feel unsure about involving their child in these festivities. However, with a bit of creativity and planning, holiday cooking with children with autism can become a fun, meaningful way to bond as a family while teaching valuable skills.

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Play in Autism

The Power of Play in Autism: A 6-Step Guide for Parents

Play is a vital tool for all children, but for children with autism, it plays an even more significant role. Beyond just fun, play in autism helps children explore the world, develop communication skills, and learn how to connect with others. However, play may not always come naturally or easily to them, which can sometimes lead to frustration or concern.

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Routines in Autism

Routines in Autism: 5 Recommendations for Parents in Virginia

Are you someone who needs to plan your day? Do you make lists to keep track of your tasks or even create a meal plan? If so, you’re part of the group of people who maintain greater control and organization through routines. Having an established routine can save us from a lot of stress when faced with the unexpected. Now, if you have a child with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), you may have noticed just how crucial consistency is in their day-to-day life. But why are routines so important? How do routines in autism work?

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Water Safety

Why Water Safety Skills Are Crucial for Children with Autism

As a parent or caregiver of a child with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), you already navigate a world entirely of unique struggles, including challenging behavior, social interaction, learning, etc. Among these, one that might not immediately come to mind is water safety. Water, with its natural charm, holds benefits, especially for kids. The splash, the coolness on a hot day, the sheer joy of swimming—these experiences are universal. But for children with autism, the dangers that water presents are far too real and often overlooked.

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