The world of autism spectrum disorder is constantly changing and we at Seattle Children’s Autism Center are eager to share with parents and caregivers what we continue to learn. The Autism Blog offers insights and resources on autism spectrum disorder, authored by knowledgeable healthcare professionals for families. Read more about The Autism Blog.
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New Option for Mental and Behavioral Health: Psychiatric Urgent Care
Psychiatric Urgent Care is an important new service for Washington families raising a child with autism, offering virtual and in-person visit options.
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Chinese Autism Research and Empowerment Services
The Autism Blog invited our community partners at CARES to share how Chinese-speaking families navigate an autism diagnosis, CARES’ mission, and the resources they provide.
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9.25.24 | Health Educator Brett Niessen shares tips and resources for teaching about consent and privacy, healthy relationships, and staying safe from sexual assault. This is Part 2 of our 2-part series on puberty and sexuality education for autistic youth.
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Top 5 Resources for Back to School
8.23.24 | This post highlights 5 helpful special education resources in Washington state, including tips on how to advocate for your child in a school setting.
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6.18.24 | This month’s Conversation About Autism focuses on experiences with puberty and sexual health education.
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Autism and Trajectory: Future Outcomes After an Autism Diagnosis
5.28.24 | There has always been an interest in understanding outcome trajectories for autistic people. When family and providers notice neurodevelopmental differences and a diagnosis of autism is made, it’s natural to want to know: “What will the future be like?”
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Speaking Up As an Autistic Mentor
5.6.24 | In this post we hear from a young adult on the autism spectrum about growing into a mentorship role. You can hear more autistic people discuss their experiences in our most recent Conversations About Autism: Autistic Voices video.
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Autism and “Levels of Support”
4.24.24 | We talk about an autism spectrum because the signs and symptoms of autism fall within a range, or spectrum. Autistic people can experience these autistic traits differently, and people with autism can look very different from one another – even though they share these core traits in certain ways.
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Finding Summer Activities for School-Age Children With Autism
4.12.24 | For those of us with neurodiverse children, figuring out what camps or classes they might like, and where they’ll be accepted so they can get the extra support they might need, gives us even more to consider.
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A Journey Through the ABA Early Intervention Program at the Autism Center
4.3.24 | The Autism Center’s Early Intervention Applied Behavior Analysis Program offers a short-term burst of therapy to children under the age of 6 who are on Medicaid while they are waiting to find long-term services.
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We seek to provide information that may be helpful for families and individuals living with autism. Content will range from topics such as summer activities to sibling support to new research findings. In addition, we will share our perspective on the latest news and information about autism.
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10 Autism-Friendly Summer Activities
6.15.23 | Discover autism-friendly summer activities for kids and adults. Get tips for creating enjoyable experiences that cater to sensory needs and preferences.
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Come as You Are, an Autistic’s Perspective
4.28.23 | Struggles, progress, and the beauty of 'Come as You Are' - An autistic perspective navigating life, work, and self-acceptance.
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Come As You Are is a Family Affair
4.17.23 | A reflection on autism acceptance and the importance of creating inclusive spaces where individuals, like the author's daughter Audrey, can come as they are.
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4.10.23 | Discovering the Alyssa Burnett Adult Life Center, a place where diversity is celebrated, and individuals with Autism and IDD can truly 'come as they are.
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Autism Acceptance Month: April 2023
4.3.23 | Discover diverse perspectives on 'Come As You Are' in anticipation of Autism Awareness Month – insights from self-advocates, family, peers, and providers.
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June’s Journey with Autism: A Parent’s Perspective
8.21.22 | Discover June's inspiring journey with autism, her talents, challenges, and the positive impact of Seattle Children’s Alyssa Burnett Adult Life Center. Gain insights into autism acceptance and hopes for a brighter future for adults with disabilities.
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Surviving to Thriving, a Self-Advocate’s View
4.11.22 | An autistic, self-advocate's journey from masking to acceptance. Part of an Autism Acceptance Month series.
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11.1.21 | Este video de 19 minutos, presenta a un pediatra local y un maestro de educación temprana, así también como la experiencia de una familia local.
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Autism and Age Appropriate Interests
3.19.21 | Addressing concerns about age-appropriate interests for a teen with autism and severe intellectual disability.
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5.11.2020 | Discover how to practice self-compassion amidst challenging times and parenting demands. Gain insights from psychologist Kristin Neff on acknowledging suffering, embracing shared humanity, and extending kindness to yourself.
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10.4.19 | Discover expert insights on supporting children with autism through grief. Clinical psychologist Dr. Emily Neuhaus shares practical strategies and resources for navigating loss.
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Naturalistic Developmental Behavioral Interventions for Children with Autism
8.9.19 | Navigating autism interventions and understand terms like ABA, ESDM, PRT, and more. Learn about Naturalistic Developmental Behavioral Intervention (NDBI) to make informed choices for your child.
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7.16.19 | Discover alternatives to hugging for a high-functioning teen with autism. Get insights from a clinical psychologist on redirecting behavior at school for more inclusive social interactions.
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Incredible Art Therapy Nonprofit Programs Changing Lives
6.7.19 | Discover nonprofit art therapy programs for special needs kids—Tracy’s Kids, Bonita Bead Boutique, and Arts for All. Enrich lives through the transformative power of creativity.
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5.31.19 | Discover key considerations for deciding if your teen with ASD is ready to drive. Explore cognitive, emotional, and social skills crucial for safe driving. Access resources to guide this significant decision.
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Getting An Autism Spectrum Disorder Diagnosis
5.7.19 | Listen to a podcast discussing the diagnosis process, including tips and recommendations for parents who may be on long wait lists.
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Explicit Visual Teaching Methods and Eye Tracking
3.20.19 | Unlocking the secrets of visual attention in autism, a closer look at the use of eye-tracking technology in understanding and improving social communication.
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Killer Fried Chicken: A young man with autism shares his secret recipe for life
12.17.18 | Discover Andrew's Secret Spice Blend, crafted by a young man with autism. Dive into his passion for cooking, unique spice mix, and the journey to crack the code of Colonel Sanders' famous recipe.
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Autism Moms – How a Facebook group helps a community find strength
9.24.18 | Explore the heartfelt journey of a thriving community supporting mothers navigating the unique challenges of raising children with autism. Discover the strength in numbers, shared resources, and the power of community.
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7.16.18 | Learn about the pitfalls of Googling autism advice and the importance of accurate information. Read one mother's experience.
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Facial Behavior and Daydreaming
9.26.17 | Discover information on stereotyped movements, daydreaming challenges, and complex behavioral issues in individuals with autism. Gain valuable knowledge and support for navigating the unique aspects of autism spectrum disorder.
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Patients with Autism in the Emergency Department
9.18.17 | Get expert insights and practical tips on navigating the Emergency Department with a child with autism, plus a glossary of common terms used during these visits.
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6.14.2017 | Discover the heartwarming journey of Charlie Burnett, a dedicated father whose unwavering love for his daughter Alyssa led to transformative change in autism care. Join us in honoring Charlie's legacy and his enduring commitment to creating a better world for Alyssa and countless others.
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Parent Training to Address Problem Behaviors of Youth with Autism Spectrum Disorder
5.22.17 | Discover the keys to address challenging behaviors in children with ASD. Unveil effective strategies rooted in applied behavior analysis for understanding, managing, and reducing unpredictability.
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Suggestions for Pica Treatment
12.19.16 | Learn effective strategies for addressing Pica behavior in children, including causes, ABA techniques, and preventative measures, with expert insights to support and guide parents.
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The Function of Stealing and Cognitive Rigidity
11.21.16 | Understand ASD behaviors and interventions. Tips for handling stealing and managing fixations in high-functioning autism. Expert advice for educators and parents.
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Autism and Visual Supports in the Pool
8.9.16 | Make swimming a success for individuals with autism using visual supports. Explore swimming lessons, water safety, visual schedules, social stories, and video modeling.
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Ritualized Patterns of Non-Verbal Behavior and Sensory Seeking
7.25.16 | Dr. Emily Rastall explores autism-related questions, discussing ritualized behaviors and sensory seeking, shedding light on aggression in children with autism.
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5.30.16 | Explore common behaviors in individuals with autism, such as the need for movement and sensory sensitivities in a question and answer format.
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Top 10 Questions Parents Ask Us at Seattle Children’s Autism Center
3.23.16 | Get concise answers to common autism questions – causes, treatments, and effective communication. Empower your understanding.
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3.10.16 | Understanding others can be tough for individuals with autism. Dr. Emily Rastall explains how Theory of Mind (ToM) affects behaviors. Gain insights for navigating social interactions with empathy.
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Tips on AAC from SLPs – Resolve to Get Visual
2.11.16 | Boost communication with AAC! Learn 5 simple tips for Speech Language Pathologists. Embrace visual supports for all learners, making AAC accessible and effective. Start small, think visual!
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Autism and Intellectual Disability
1.11.16 | Dr. Jennifer Gerdts explains the shift from 'Mental Retardation' to 'Intellectual Disability' in ASD diagnosis, its prevalence, and impacts on interventions.
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Toileting Issues and Adult Assessment
11.26.15 | Discover solutions for toileting challenges in children with autism, covering medical, behavioral, and environmental factors. Explore the benefits of adult autism assessment, weighing pros and cons for informed decisions.
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10.2.15 | Bilingualism in children with autism doesn't hinder language development and may even offer benefits, according to research studies.
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Transitions and Insisting on Sameness
9.25.15 | Discover strategies for setting limits with compassion and delve into a heartfelt inquiry from a parent seeking support in a community with limited resources.
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8.7.15 | Explore the challenges of isolation faced by parents of special needs children in this poignant blog. Gain insights, share experiences, and find strength together.
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Life After Out-of-Home Placement: Interviews with Parents - Part 2
3.5.15 | Embark on Dillon's journey as Sara recounts their decision for out-of-home placement. Discover the challenges, surprising adjustments, and the positive impact on Dillon's life.
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Life After Out-of-Home Placement: Interviews with Parents - Part 1
3.2.15 | Explore a parent's journey with daughter's smooth out-of-home placement. Discover insights into emotional challenges, newfound freedom, and sibling adjustments.
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Keeping Your Cool: Tips for Parents of Kids with Special Needs
2.19.15 | Discover stress-busting strategies for parents of kids with special needs. Learn to reprogram self-talk, find calm in chocolate and music, and try the 3-2-1 relaxation technique.
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2.13.15 | Dr. Sara Jane Webb discusses twins and autism; uncovering genetic links, treatment insights, and family dynamics.
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What Is It Like to Live With Autism?
1.22.15 | Insights from Ben Moore, a 26-year-old living with autism. Explore his experiences, challenges, and aspirations as he aims to make the world more inclusive for autistic individuals.
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Ten ‘Mistakes’ This Parent of a Kid with Autism Has Made Over the Years
11.13.14 | Learn from our experiences in the realm of autism parenting. Explore 10 valuable insights, from setting realistic goals to prioritizing self-care. Join our community and embrace the learning curve!
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10.1.14 | A Seattle Children’s Autism Center psychometrist answers questions from parents about the various clinical tools used in the evaluation of autism spectrum disorder and IQ.
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Alternative and Augmentative Communication (AAC) and Autism
9.25.14 | Unlock the potential of AAC for enhanced communication in children with autism, fostering language development and empowering effective self-expression.
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Autism and Parent Support Groups
9.5.14 | A mother shares her experience with autism and parent support groups, along with a list of support group resources.
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Creative Respite For Families of Kids with Autism
3.19.14 | Explore respite for parents of children with autism, addressing holiday challenges and revealing Washington's respite options. Dive into innovative ideas like time-share respite, VRBO arrangements, and student-respite partnerships.
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Wisdom Tooth Surgery and My Child with Autism
11.19.13 | Navigate the challenges of your child's wisdom tooth surgery with practical tips on planning, communication, and staying calm. A must-read for parents.
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Obsessive Compulsive Disorder and Autism Spectrum Disorder
10.11.13 | Are your child's behaviors indicative of OCD or are they simply part of their autism spectrum diagnosis? Gain a clearer understanding and effective strategies for parents navigating these complex scenarios.
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9.23.13 | Dr. Samuel Zinner answers the common question of, “Is what I’m seeing a tic?” in relation to some of the unusual mannerisms children with autism display.
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How to Request Special Education Services after an Autism Diagnosis
8.8.2013: Learn how to navigate the special education process, from requesting an evaluation to understanding qualification criteria. Whether your child has a diagnosis or is in the evaluation process, get practical tips for a smoother journey through the special education system.
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Designing a Community for Families Living with Autism
7.31.13 | Imagine an urban oasis where families of young adults with autism thrive. Discover our vision for a supportive village with safe homes, green spaces, and community resources. Dream big with us and explore the possibilities.
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7.12.2013: Discover expert tips for stress-free haircuts for kids with autism. Learn to plan ahead, find the right stylist, and create a positive experience.
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Autism and a Trip to the Grocery Store
7.3.13 | Navigate the grocery store successfully with a child with autism using practical tips and strategies shared by a mother based on her experiences with her son.
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5.2.13 | Explore the sleep challenges faced by children with autism in an insightful interview with Dr. Yemi Kifle, covering causes, evaluation, and effective treatments.
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Autism and Dealing with Change
2.8.13 | Change can be extremely stressful for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Here are tips for managing change and transitions in your child’s life.
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11.9.12 | Discover the impact of autism on siblings – exploring emotions, dynamics, and valuable support resources for stronger family bonds.
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11.2.12 | Explore step-parenting a child with autism, with tips and insights from experienced stepparents, and join our supportive community delving into the dynamics of Autism and Family Life.
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Divorce, Autism and Single Parenting
10.25.12 | Navigate the challenges of single parenting a child with autism through insights from experienced parents, offering practical tips, support sources, and lessons learned.
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Tips for a Safe Halloween for Your Child With Autism
10.22.12 | Discover 8 practical tips to ensure a safe and enjoyable Halloween for your child with autism. From costume preparation to gradual decorations, make the holiday a positive experience.
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10.18.12 | Debunking the 80% divorce myth for parents of children with autism. Insights on challenges and strategies for maintaining strong marriages while parenting.
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10.16.12 | Explore the intricate relationship between parental stress and autism. Discover unconventional self-care methods and embrace the power of reframing for balance and well-being.
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4 Ways to Help Your Young Adult with Autism Transition to Independence
8.2.12 | How to navigate the young adult transition for autistic young people. Get practical insights and understand crucial competencies. Support your child on their unique journey.
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Why Do Kids With Autism Do That? Part 1
5.6.12 | The first part of a series in which a panel of Seattle Children's providers to give their best answers as to why children with Autism do what they do.
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2.22.12 | Discover how autism is portrayed in media, examining the impact of authentic representation and diverse characters. Join the conversation on the influence of media portrayals on the autism community and explore noteworthy films.
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Autism and Medical Hospitalization
2.3.12 | Gain valuable insights into the medical hospitalization of a child with autism with tips for parents, common challenges and helpful preparation suggestions.
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Telling Your Child They Have Autism
1.4.12 | Discover advice and real stories on discussing an autism diagnosis with your child. Learn when and how to approach this important conversation.
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Introducing a Pet to Your Home and Your Child with Autism
12.21.11 | Explore key insights and practical tips on introducing a new pet to your child with autism.
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Food Challenges and Children with Autism
10.12.11 | Understanding Pediatric Feeding Disorders in children with autism: Learn about challenges, causes, assessment, and treatment options from a clinical psychologist's perspective.
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9.28.11 | Elementary school teacher, Chris Cooper, shares his perspective on teaching students with autism in a general education classroom, including tips for teachers who work with kids with autism.
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9.21.11 | David Eaton, ARNP, shares medication tips that can be applied universally, whether or not your child is affected by an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).
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8.18.11 | Discover the transformative DIR®/Floortime™ Model for autism intervention, emphasizing play-based interactions, individual differences, and relationship-based strategies.
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Pivotal Response Training (PRT)
8.3.11 | Explore Pivotal Response Training (PRT), a naturalistic ABA therapy, focusing on motivation and pivotal areas for effective intervention in autism.
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What is applied behavioral analysis (ABA) again?
7.20.11 | Explore Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) in autism therapy, its core elements, and diverse programs for effective learning and skill development
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Social Communication and Making Connections
6.15.11 | Learn about the difficulties and solutions in how kids with autism communicate. Find out the common problems in communication and get practical advice on how to encourage better engagement, joint attention, and imitation to help improve communication skills.
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Preschool to Kindergarten: The Transition IEP Meeting
5.19.11 | Prepare for your child's kindergarten transition IEP meeting with these tips. Learn how to review assessments, discuss progress, and plan for the best services.
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Communicating with Providers - Tips on Describing Behavior
5.10.11 | Improve communication with providers about challenging behaviors in children with autism. Learn tips for clear descriptions and effective support.