Sarah Webster - BCBA

An Augmentative and Alternative Communication device (AAC) is a tool used by individuals who struggle to communicate using speech. AAC tools can take different forms, such as picture exchange systems or electronic devices, and are individualized to meet the needs of the user.  AAC devices matter for autistic children, especially non-speaking or minimally verbal kids.…

Children with autism commonly experience tics, which can be confusing for parents who may be unsure what to do about them. In autism, tics may appear as sudden movements or sounds like blinking, throat-clearing, or shoulder shrugs, often linked to stress, anxiety, or sensory needs. This article will help bring some clarity and information by…

If you have a child with autism, you may have noticed them repeating lines from TV shows, movies, or conversations in randomly occurring situations. This behavior is called scripting, and although it can seem a little peculiar, it is very common with autistic individuals, with up to 75% of people on the spectrum engaging in…

If your child is on the autism spectrum, you may have noticed them making repeated sounds like humming, grunting, high-pitched squeals, or repeating words or phrases over and over. These behaviors are a form of vocal stimming, short for self-stimulatory behavior, which is common in many individuals with autism. While it can be confusing or…

Daily living skills, such as brushing teeth, getting dressed, preparing meals, and managing personal hygiene, are the foundation of a person’s ability to function independently. For autistic individuals, developing these essential life skills can make a significant difference in day-to-day living and long-term outcomes. When individuals can perform daily tasks with confidence, they gain a…

Elopement, or wandering or bolting, is when a child leaves a designated safe area or adult supervision without permission or notice. This behavior is widespread among children on the autism spectrum and can occur suddenly and without warning. Elopement is a significant and often frightening concern. Many autistic children may have limited awareness of danger…

Head banging in autism is often a way to express frustration, seek sensory input, or cope with overwhelm, and parents can use safe strategies to reduce it. It is a form of self-injurious behavior (SIB) and can involve repeatedly hitting the head against a surface, such as a wall, floor, or hard object. For parents…

The Assessment of Basic Language and Learning Skills – Revised (ABLLS-R) is a widely used tool designed to evaluate and track the development of essential skills in children, particularly those with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) or other developmental delays. This assessment covers language, social interaction, self-help, academic, and motor skills, helping educators, therapists, and parents…

Overstimulation in autism happens when sights, sounds, or emotions become overwhelming—learning the signs helps parents respond calmly and supportively. Everyday environments—like a crowded grocery store, a loud classroom, or even bright overhead lighting—can become overwhelming, leading to distress, meltdowns, or withdrawal. As a parent, understanding overstimulation can help you better support your child in navigating…

In autism, hyperfixation can look like hours spent on trains, video games, or math facts; it can boost skills but may also affect schooling and routines. Hyperfixation is a deep, intense focus on a specific interest, activity, or topic for an extended period. It is common in autistic individuals and can play a significant role…

Walking on tiptoes is a behavior often observed in young children, especially in their early years of development. While it is commonly seen during the toddler stage as part of normal exploration and play, it can sometimes persist beyond this phase, raising questions among parents and caregivers. Walking on tiptoes can be a normal stage…

If you’re a parent exploring different therapies for your child with autism, you may have come across play therapy and wondered if it could be the right fit. Play therapy uses the natural language and environment of play to help children express emotions, develop social skills, and improve communication—all in a way that feels enjoyable…

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a developmental disorder characterized by challenges in social skills, repetitive behaviors, and verbal and non-verbal communication. ASD is a spectrum, meaning the type of deficits and the severity of the symptoms can vary widely from one person to the next. Typically, an autism diagnosis will require a treatment plan that…

Virtual autism describes autism-like traits linked to heavy screen exposure in early childhood—diagnosis involves ruling out autism and assessing development. The condition is marked by deficits in communication skills, behavioral oddities, and issues with social interactions. The main difference between virtual autism and autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is that virtual autism is reversible and temporary.…

If you’re a parent wondering whether your child might be showing symptoms of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), it is never too early to consider an assessment. Signs of autism can begin to show before six months of age, and receiving an early diagnosis has an enormous impact on a child’s development and prospects for the…

Applied behavior analysis (ABA) is one of the most commonly used interventions to treat children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and other developmental issues. ABA is based on behavioral science and examines how the environment can affect learning and behavior. An ABA therapist will help examine why a child’s behaviors occur, under what circumstances, and…

As a parent, receiving an autism diagnosis for your child will produce a myriad of emotions, ranging from relief to fear and everything in between. Feeling overwhelmed is a completely natural and expected response. Likely, an autism diagnosis will create a lot of questions about the future for your child, yourself, and your family, and…

An Individualized Education Program (IEP) is an educational plan written to support students with learning disabilities. These documents include goals for the student to work towards during the academic year, as well as what supports are needed to meet these goals. For an IEP to be effective and meaningful, a team of professionals works with…

Autism doesn’t get worse, but stress, sensory overload, and unmet needs can intensify challenges—most of which can be managed with the right strategies. ASD impacts every aspect of a person’s life, and people on the spectrum will require some level of ongoing support throughout their lifetime. Autism covers a wide spectrum of diverse symptoms, and…

Autism can be diagnosed by specialists such as developmental pediatricians, child psychologists, neurologists, psychiatrists, and speech-language pathologists. Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a developmental condition that can impact all aspects of life. Receiving a reliable diagnosis of ASD is life-altering, not only for the person receiving the diagnosis but for those who have relationships with…