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How to Create Effective Social Scripts to Help Kids Prepare for New or Changing Situations

Kelsie Olds•April 24, 2026

Social scripts can be powerful tools for helping autistic children understand what to expect in new situations. However, many well-intentioned scripts focus on controlling behavior rather than providing information. This article describes how to create social scripts that truly support neurodivergent children. “At school on Friday, there is going to be a special presentation. An…

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Teaching Kids to Advocate for Their Sensory Needs: 3 Simple Strategies

Kelsie Olds•April 24, 2026

Toddlers are generally really excellent self-advocates for their own sensory needs. Of course, that’s to the detriment of several other things. Toddlers have a complete disregard for social norms, a lack of basic dignity, and an inability to understand that their actions are impacting others. The end result is that their advocacy for their own…

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Using Coloring and Doodling to Support Regulation and Mindfulness

Nicole Day•April 24, 2026

Coloring and doodling are often seen as simple, fun activities. But for many children, they’re also powerful tools for emotional regulation, mindfulness, and self-expression. If you’re a parent, educator, or therapist supporting a neurodivergent child who experiences stress, anxiety, or sensory overwhelm, these creative outlets may offer more than just entertainment. They can be part…

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What Is the 5-4-3-2-1 Grounding Technique (And Why Does It Matter)?

Nicole Day•April 24, 2026

The 5-4-3-2-1 grounding technique is a simple, sensory-based mindfulness practice that helps kids feel calm, present, and in control. It teaches them to connect with the environment through their five senses—sight, touch, hearing, smell, and taste. Grounding is a useful coping tool for anyone who experiences sensory overload, anxiety, or emotional dysregulation. It’s often practiced…

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Exploring Your Child’s Sensory Preferences

Kelsie Olds•July 18, 2025

If you’ve ever wondered why your child avoids certain textures, seeks out movement constantly, or gets overwhelmed by sounds that others don’t even notice, you’re not alone. Every person experiences the world through their senses in a slightly different way, and understanding those sensory preferences helps in making us and others feel more comfortable, safe,…

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Rethinking Empathy in Autism

Kelsie Olds•July 18, 2025

A common and persistent myth about autism is that autistic individuals lack empathy. This idea influences how society, educators, and…

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