autism

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

Autistic and Neurotypical Valued Occupations Model (ANVOM): A Proposed Model for Occupational Therapy Practice

Purpose The purpose of this article is to propose a model of practice for occupational therapy based on research that includes the voices of those who are Autistic, including Autistic adults with the lived experience of autism combined along with their neurotypical counterparts, e.g., parents, caregivers, and society. Language Based on a majority of the … Read more

Sensory-Based Strategies Are Not the Same as Ayres Sensory Integration

Incorrect Use? Sensory strategies are often incorrectly used with sensory integration interventions. One way to distinguish sensory integration methods involve active client participation, whereas sensory strategies involve passive sensations. Sensory integration treatment is based on sensory integration theory which was proposed by Dr. Jean Ayres. The core theory was built on what Ayres new at … Read more

Overview of Social Skills Interventions for Autism in Occupational Therapy

Introduction Social skills interventions are designed to address barriers in social skills for clients with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). These social skills interventions can be facilitated by the occupational therapist or educator and may involve training peers to interact with those who have ASD to improve their social skills. Furthermore, social skills training may be … Read more

FAQ: How Occupational Therapy Can Help Adults with Autism

Q: How can occupational therapy help adults with autism? Q: How is occupational therapy different for adults than children? Q: Can occupational therapy help with employment? Q: What areas do occupational therapists work with for adults who have autism? Q: Is occupational therapy for adults successful? Q: Do adults with autism benefit from a combined … 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