Puppets Shown to Attract and Hold the Attention of Kids with Autism
Yale Study Suggests Using Puppets as a Social Therapy Tool Difficulties with making eye contact and keeping attention with social partners is one of the early hallmarks of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). New research from the Yale Child Study Center set out to address these common problems for young children on the spectrum. The center […]
Autistic Traits Associated with Phthalate Exposures at Susceptible Developmental Times
Boys Showed a Stronger Link Between Exposures and Autism Symptoms Than Girls A new South Korean study has concluded that there are susceptible developmental periods of time that phthalate exposure can be linked with autistic traits. Specifically, the study’s authors found that exposure to phthalates during pregnancy is associated with autistic traits in young children […]
Newly Approved Pediatric Prolonged-Release Melatonin Shows Success for Treating ASD Related Insomnia
Benefits Include Increased Sleep Time, Reduced Sleep Latency, & Improved Sleep Continuity Approximately half of the individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), including children, experience sleep disorders. Adequate sleep plays a critical role in the neurological, psychological, and physical development of children and adolescents. Sleep deficits have been associated with hyperactivity-impulsivity, poor cognitive performance, and […]
More Funds Allocated to Support Healthy Weight Research for Children with Autism
Less Physical Activity, Food Selectivity, and Poor Sleep Can Contribute to Weight Issues The rise in childhood obesity rates has been in the national spotlight for the past two decades. Despite the increased focus on this topic, limited attention has been paid to the unique risk factors and effects experienced by children with autism spectrum […]
Doctors with ASD Want to Reframe How Neurodevelopmental Conditions Are Viewed
Instead of Viewing as a Disorder, Difference and Diversity is Preferred A letter written by Autistic Doctors International suggests changing how autism is viewed in both clinical and academic settings. The group, made up of 300 doctors on the spectrum, was assembled to focus on autism advocacy, support, and research. Their recent letter, published in […]
Preschooler with Autism Develops Scurvy
Disease Once Thought in Rearview Mirror Could be a New Concern An Italian case report recently detailed the account of a 3-year-old girl who refused to walk or stand, displayed an odd red rash, follicular hyperkeratosis, and bleeding gums. She was diagnosed with scurvy, a disease that has been greatly reduced throughout the western world. […]
