Navigating the world of teen dating can be both exciting and challenging for all adolescents, regardless of neurodiversity. Recent studies have shed light on the genuine desire from Autistic teens in forming friendships, romantic connections and meaningful connections (Koegel et al., 2024). As OT’s we recognise the importance of supporting teenagers in their dating endeavours […]
READ MOREUnderstanding Masking in Autistic Children
Disclaimer: In this blogpost we have utilised identify-first language in line with current preferences in the Autistic community. However, we acknowledge that everyone is on their own journey, and they have the right to choose if they prefer person-first language. Masking is when individuals, especially those on the autism spectrum, consciously or unconsciously hide their […]
READ MORENavigating a Diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder
Disclaimer: In this blogpost we have utilised identify-first language in line with current preferences in the Autistic community. However, we acknowledge that everyone is on their own journey, and they have the right to choose if they prefer person-first language. Receiving a diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) can bring on a whole wave of […]
READ MOREWhat is Neurodiversity?
Neurodiversity refers to the recognition and acceptance of neurological differences among children. These differences may include conditions such as autism, ADHD, dyslexia, Tourette’s syndrome, and other conditions that affect the way a child thinks, learns, and processes information. The concept of neurodiversity emphasizes the idea that neurological differences are a natural part of human diversity, […]
READ MOREPathological Demand Avoidance
Supporting Children with Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) in School and Social Settings: Occupational Therapy Strategies and Interventions. Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) is a condition that falls under the Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) umbrella, characterized by extreme resistance to demands and requests, often leading to highly avoidant behaviour. Many may wonder about the differences between Oppositional […]
READ MOREThe Role of an Occupational Therapist in Autism Spectrum Disorder
Disclaimer: In this blogpost we have utilised identify-first language in line with current preferences in the Autistic community. However, we acknowledge that everyone is on their own journey, and they have the right to choose if they prefer person-first language. Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a developmental condition that affects how someone thinks, feels and […]
READ MOREGirls with Autism Spectrum Disorder
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a developmental condition that influences the way the brain processes information and engages with the world. While it is estimated that 1 in 44 children have ASD, these rates suggest that on average boys are 4 times more likely to have autism than girls. However, the diagnostic criteria for Autism […]
READ MOREWhat does ASPERGER SYNDROME really mean?
We’ve all heard the term Asperger Syndrome, but what does it really mean?! The term was initially derived by Austrian Paediatrician Hans Asperger in the 1940s. To his experience, he recognised people lacked social skills, and had extremely narrow-minded interests. Forwarding 40 years to the 1980’s, British psychiatrist Lorna Wing developed the concept “Asperger Syndrome” […]
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