asd

How to Get a Kiddo to Get a Haircut – Occupational Therapy Intervention

Navigating the realm of toddler haircuts unveils a sensory challenge, where the unfamiliar setting, buzzing clippers, and tactile sensations converge, often triggering resistance and anxiety; however, occupational therapy offers practical strategies—from gradual desensitization to sensory-friendly tools and the power of social learning—to transform the experience into a smoother, more positive journey for both toddlers and parents alike.

Fidgeting vs. Stimming in Autism

This post will use identify-first language, e.g., Autistic person, as the community overwhelmingly prefers this language, and the capital A is in accordance with APA recommendations. You may or may not have heard of the term ‘stimming’, which is a colloquial term for motor stereotyped behaviors such as finger-flicking, hand flapping, and rocking back and … Read more

Stereotypy vs. Stimming: Restricted & Repetitive Behaviors in Autism (ASD) | Occupational Therapy Interventions

This article will use identity-first language based on the community’s preference for such language in accordance with the APA’s recommendations. Introduction Restricted and repetitive behaviors (RRBs) are one of the core symptoms of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The other core symptoms of autism include deficits in communication and social interaction. RRBs include stereotyped behaviors such … Read more

Evidence-Based & Supported Sensory Integration Interventions for Autism | Occupational Therapy Practice

Not all Sensory Integration interventions are effective or supported by the latest evidence. Introduction This is not to say that sensory integration as a whole is not effective. Even still, as occupational therapists should strive to be holistic – research suggests that a top-down approach/perspective instead should at least be considered in addition to SI … Read more

COVID-19 Challenges to Autism (ASD) for Adults – Occupational Therapists Recomendations

Introduction As the omicron variant is on the rise in the US, reports of it affecting the younger population are a concern. Adults with ASD continue to face difficulties in managing their day-to-day life due to factors such as economic instability, job security, mental health, physical health, and overall uncertainty. Here are some ways you … Read more

Occupational Therapy Goals for Autism ASD

Occupational therapy autism intervention goals

Cognition Poor attention, highly distractible Preoccupation for specific activities, repetitive actions Difficulty with teamwork Poor memory Difficulty with complex cognitive tasks Sequencing Imitation Generalizing concepts Symbolism Reading comprehension Executive function Language delay, verbal skills Sensory Stimuli Sensory-perceptual abilities Tactile defensiveness Hypersensitivity Hyposensitivity Postural stability without visual cues Visual Seeing images as a whole Visual fascination … Read more