This session explores the unique challenges and changes that occur during puberty for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), offering guidance on what families can expect and safe, natural strategies to support well-being. Puberty brings neurologic, hormonal, adrenal, and metabolic shifts that can affect mood, behavior, and overall health. Children with ASD face an increased risk of developing epilepsy around this time, and older youth may experience greater adrenal dysregulation. These changes can contribute to aggression, anxiety, sleep disturbances, seizures, and blood sugar imbalances. 

Attendees will learn:
• The physical and physiological changes that occur during puberty and how they may uniquely affect children with ASD
• Why the risk for epilepsy increases during this developmental stage, and signs to watch for
• How adrenal dysregulation may present in older children and its potential impacts on behavior and health
• Common challenges during puberty, including aggression, anxiety, sleep disturbances, seizures, and blood sugar fluctuations
• Safe and effective natural strategies to address these challenges and promote resilience
• How to create supportive home and school environments during this transitional period
• Ways to monitor and respond to early signs of physiological or behavioral changes 

This session supports your understanding of the developmental shifts that occur during puberty in children with ASD and equips you with practical, natural strategies to help navigate this time with confidence. You’ll leave with actionable tools to better anticipate challenges, respond effectively, and support your child’s overall health and well-being.