By Holly Bortfeld Aggression is not uncommon in autism spectrum disorders where it’s usually a reflection of pain or lack of communication. First things first. Make sure it’s truly autism and not an emotional disorder such as ODD, Conduct Disorder, Borderline Personality Disorder, Bipolar Disorder or undiagnosed anger and conduct issues. These issues are rare, […]
Tag: coping
Facts about Asperger’s Syndrome
Facts about Asperger’s Syndrome By Holly Bortfeld The new DSM-V proposes to remove the diagnosis of Asperger’s Syndrome but when reading the new diagnostic criteria, you may realize you/your child no longer fits the definition of Autism Spectrum Disorder and may, or may not, meet the criteria for a new diagnosis called Social Communication Disorder […]
Jeffrey’s Story – Part II: Finding Hope In Three Little Words
Update September 2002 By Jeff’s big sister: the amazing Lauren When my mother told me that I was finally going to have a little brother, my heart immediately burst with joy. I began to daydream about all the things I could teach him, all the knowledge and joy I could share, and all the noogies […]
Jeffrey’s Story – Part I
Summer 2000 By Jeff’s big sister: the amazing Lauren The tiny, blond, blue-eyed boy was covered in love as thick as his favorite blanket from the day he was born. Everyone adored him and, in truth, he adored everyone back. People would walk into a room and smile when they saw the small boy and […]
Share Your Happy Holiday Advice!
The holidays can sometimes be a difficult time for a child with autism and stressful for parents and caregivers as well. If you are a parent with a child with autism with tips for how to enjoy a successful holiday, TACA welcomes you to share your wisdom! Some topics might include: How to deal with […]
Surviving the Holidays Advice
Below are submissions from parents like you who have been there/done that and want to share their advice on surviving this time of year. We’d love to hear from you about your experiences and advice! CLICK HERE to share your holiday advice. Topics: Keeping Up with GFCF and Dealing with Infractions Gifts Gatherings Traveling Enjoying […]
TACA Marriage & Family Counseling Groups
Couples who have children with autism face serious and ongoing challenges maintaining healthy relationships with their partners and family members. Challenges of time, finances, education and raising a child on the spectrum can be exhausting for couples, placing increasing amounts of stress on each parent and their marriage.We will meet weekly to discuss how to […]
Grandparents of Children with Autism: Top Ten Suggestions
Change Your Relationship Expectations & Provide Unconditional Love For This Child Eye Contact Might Not Happen—Don’t Expect It Hugs and Kisses Can Cause Sensory Overload for Some Children Many Children Are On A Restrictive Diet, Adhere By It—Food Does Not Equal Love Behaviors Can Be Erratic, Ignore Bad Behaviors & Praise Good Put Away Breakables […]
Fathers: Top Ten List of Coping Skills
1 This is war! Don’t kid yourself. This will be the most difficult thing you will do in your life – therefore it will also be the most rewarding thing you will do in your life. This is your chance to be a “hero.” You are your child’s champion. 2 No ego parenting. This is […]
Does the “Window” Ever Close?
April 2008 By Becky Estepp, TACA Media Manager and Moira Giammatteo, Family Scholarship Manager Parents ask us all the time about the “Window.” You know, that window of opportunity you have to help pull your child out of the world of autism and into our world. Many are worried that the window is either closing […]
Resources for Siblings
Books Being the Other One: Growing Up with a Brother or Sister Who Has Special Needs by Kate Strohm
