Back to School Basics for Parents of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder
Each child on the spectrum has unique needs, and transitioning back to school can be particularly challenging. Here are some practical and encouraging tips to help you and your child navigate this transition smoothly.
Finding Joy in a Special Needs Summer
Summers hit differently when special needs are thrown into the mix. But we are focusing on embracing growth, fostering inclusion, and building resilience!
Year-End Recap: School Psychology- The Good, The Bad, & The Ugly
By navigating the challenges school psychologists face as a community, we are stronger, more professionally resilient, and more joyful in our work.
Autism Acceptance Month
Autism Acceptance Month serves as an annual reminder to broaden our understanding of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and the diverse experiences of those who live with it. It’s a call to action to dispel myths, challenge stereotypes, and promote acceptance and inclusion in our communities.
What’s the Hold Up? Autism Evaluation Wait Lists
In recent years, there has been a growing concern over the extended wait times individuals face when seeking autism assessments. There are many reasons for this unfortunate reality, but there are also things we can do about it!
What’s the difference between an IEP and a 504 plan?
While both Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and 504 plans serve to support students with disabilities, they differ in their eligibility criteria, focus, and provisions.
Abilene Summer Camps 2024
Explore Abilene summer camps for 2024! It may seem early, but summer camps fill up quickly. So now is the time to start thinking about summer camp plans for your kids.
A Guide to Decreasing Biting Behavior in Young Children
Understanding the reasons behind biting and employing evidence-based strategies can make a significant difference in curbing this behavior. In this guide, we'll explore effective ways to address and decrease biting behaviors in young children.
3rd Annual Big Country Autism Walk
Big Country Spectrum Connection is gearing up for the 3rd Annual Autism Walk, held in Abilene, Texas! Held on the first Saturday in April, this year’s walk will be April 6, 2024 starting at 9am at Redbud Park. We hope you’ll join us!
Why School Psychologists are Burnt Out (And What We Can Do About It)
The burnout in the school psychology profession is real. Increasingly, excellent clinicians are leaving the field for good. Grounded Roots Family Development Center can help burnt out professionals find creative work solutions that can help them regain joy and purpose in their profession.
How Can We Make Postpartum Better?
The perinatal period, encompassing pregnancy and the first year postpartum, is a critical time for the mental health and well-being of both parents and infants. What can be done to support families in this important, challenging time in their lives?
Autism Support for Children & Families
Nurturing the growth and well-being of families impacted by Autism Spectrum Disorders is part science, part art, and part trial and error. At Grounded Roots Family Development Center, we embrace growth, not perfection. If that sounds like the support you need, contact us today.
Autism in Girls
According to the Centers for Disease Control, on the whole, females receive an autism diagnosis about a year later than their male counterparts. Explore some of the reasons why we still have a long way to go in order to reach equity in diagnosis, treatment, and intervention assistance.
What’s the Controversy with ABA Therapy?
It is essential to carefully consider the pros and cons of ABA and, most importantly, find an ABA provider that you trust and who prioritizes your child's individual needs and well-being. Your child's journey with autism is unique, and the therapy should reflect that uniqueness while providing the support and care they deserve.
Autism & The Holidays
This holiday season, take the time to embrace your family's individuality and cherish the moments that truly matter. It's the love, acceptance, and understanding that you provide that will make this holiday season special for both you and your neurodivergent child.
Moms-Do you need a therapist?
Perinatal mental health encompasses the emotional well-being of women during pregnancy and the postpartum period, along with the adjustment to parenthood. It is a delicate and often complex phase of life, one that deserves specialized attention and expertise.
Sensory-Friendly Halloween Costume Ideas
Creating a sensory-friendly Halloween costumes is a wonderful way to ensure that your child with sensory sensitivities can fully participate in the Halloween festivities. Here are just a few ideas that might not spook your sensory-sensitive kiddo.
What Does “Sensory Friendly” Really Mean?
Creating sensory-friendly environments benefits not only those with Autism, but society as a whole. It fosters a culture of inclusion and understanding; teaching everyone to appreciate and accommodate diversity in sensory experiences. It extends beyond autism to benefit people with various sensory needs, such as those with sensory processing disorders, anxiety, or other conditions.
Pregnancy & Infant Loss Remembrance Day
October is Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month, and October 15 is Remembrance Day—a time to acknowledge and remember the profound impact that pregnancy loss has on parents and families. Let us remember and support those who have experienced the loss of a pregnancy, providing them with the compassion and understanding they deserve.
Journal Prompts for Writing your Birth Story
In thinking through your birth story, sometimes it’s hard to even get started. So much happened, and thoughts tend to swirl around a newly postpartum brain. To begin telling your birth story, I have put together some journal prompt suggestions for getting started.