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When Familiarity Changes A familiar classroom may have a different teacher. Lunch might happen at a new time. A favorite activity may move to another day. A new bus route, after-school program, therapy appointment, or extracurricular activity can add another layer of change. A new school year rarely means changing just one thing. For some children with autism, these shifts can require considerable mental energy. What looks like a small adjustment to an adult can feel like le

A Child's Day Doesn't End When They Leave Home A child's world is made up of many places, people, and relationships. Home may be where they feel most comfortable. School may be where they discover new interests, friendships, and abilities. Therapy may provide another setting to practice emerging skills. Community activities add yet another layer to their experiences. When these parts of a child's life feel disconnected, adults may see very different versions of the same child

A New School Year Brings New Beginnings There is something special about the start of a new school year. Children look forward to the fresh notebooks, new backpacks, different teachers, new classmates and new routines. For many families, these changes are exciting. They can also bring uncertainty, particularly when a child with autism is preparing for preschool, kindergarten, or a new classroom. School readiness is often associated with learning letters, numbers, or colors. W

Every Child Has a Story Within the Family When a child is diagnosed with autism, the conversation naturally centers around evaluations, appointments, therapies, school planning, and learning how best to support their unique needs. At the same time, another story is unfolding within the home. Brothers and sisters are growing, naturally observing, asking questions, celebrating milestones, and making sense of experiences in their own way. They may become a child's biggest cheerl

The Destination Is Only Part of the Experience Family outings become the moments children remember long after summer has ended. A trip to the zoo. An afternoon at the farmers market. Ice cream after dinner. A visit to a museum. Watching a baseball game. Exploring a new hiking trail. At the same time, leaving the familiarity of home can introduce unfamiliar sounds in these environments, changing routines, busy crowds, long waits, and unexpected surprises. While these experien