Blog – Page 2 – The Autism Dad

Mightier Review 2024: Helping Kids with Autism and ADHD Manage Meltdowns

Discover how Mightier, developed by Harvard Medical School and Boston Children's Hospital, uses biofeedback to help kids with autism and ADHD manage meltdowns and improve emotional self-regulation. Through fun, engaging games, Mightier teaches children to recognize and control their emotions, providing invaluable skills that benefit them throughout life. Learn about the science behind Mightier, our personal success story, and how you can save 10% with the code theautismdad22.

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June 19, 2024

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Understanding Stimming in ADHD and Autism

What is Stimming? Stimming, short for self-stimulatory behavior, refers to repetitive actions like hand-flapping, rocking, humming, or tapping. For those of us with ADHD or autism, stimming serves as a way to self-regulate our sensory experiences and emotions. It helps manage the overwhelming input from our surroundings and provides a sense of calm and focus. Why Do We Stim? There are several reasons why stimming is a common behavior: Sensory Regulation: Our brains can easily become overwhelmed by sensory input. Stimming helps us filter and manage this input, making our environment more predictable and less stressful. Emotional Release: When we feel anxious, excited, or frustrated, stimming can be a way to express and release these emotions safely. Focus and Concentration: Engaging in repetitive movements or sounds can help maintain focus…

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June 18, 2024

Read more about the article How Men Can Get Fit After 40: Embracing the Long Game

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How Men Can Get Fit After 40: Embracing the Long Game

Men hitting the big 4-0 often find themselves at a crossroads. The energy of youth gives way to the responsibilities of middle age, and the body starts to hint that it won't tolerate the same old habits. But here's the deal: getting fit after 40 isn't just about vanity. It's about longevity, vitality, and becoming the silver fox who's not just alive but living. Embrace the Journey, Not the Destination First things first, gents. Drop the 20-year-old mindset of beach bodies and six-packs. We’re not teenagers prepping for spring break. Think long-term investment. Fitness after 40 is about being able to play with your kids (or grandkids), keeping up with your partner, and making sure your body doesn't betray you when you decide to climb that mountain or dive into…

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June 18, 2024

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Saving Smarter: Practical Tips for Busy Parents to Build a Financial Safety Net

In an era where financial stability feels increasingly precarious, building a financial safety net is no longer just an option but a necessity. For busy parents, balancing the cost of raising a family with saving for the future can be an arduous task. However, with strategic planning and smart saving habits, it’s possible to secure a robust financial foundation. Here are some practical tips to help busy parents save smarter and create a financial buffer for their family's future. Assess Your Financial Situation The first step to building a financial safety net is to understand where you currently stand. Take stock of all your assets, liabilities, income, and monthly expenses. This detailed snapshot offers valuable insights into your financial health and helps identify areas where you can make immediate improvements.…

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June 14, 2024

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Music Therapy vs Listening Therapy: What’s the Difference?

Music therapy and listening therapy are frequently discussed in the context of therapeutic interventions, but they have distinct differences and applications. So, what's music therapy? Music therapy is an evidence-based clinical use of musical interventions to improve clients' quality of life. Music therapists are credentialed professionals who design music therapy experiences to address various emotional, cognitive, and social needs of individuals. Through creating, singing, moving to, and/or listening to music within a therapeutic context, music therapy can help individuals manage stress, enhance memory, and improve communication. Then, what is listening therapy, you might be wondering. Listening therapy generally refers to methods that use music and sound to improve auditory processing and listening skills. It frequently assists individuals with auditory processing disorders, ASD, ADHD, or learning difficulties, providing structured listening sessions…

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June 4, 2024

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How to Create an Engaging Living Room for Kids with ADHD

Contrary to what some people may assume, children with ADHD are shaped not just by nature but also by nurture. According to experts, ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder that is characterized by patterns of hyperactivity, inattention, and impulsivity. Among children, this can interfere with critical aspects like studying and socializing that can influence development. As such, it’s important for parents to shape environments that can help children with ADHD find balance. Research suggests that ADHD can be caused by psychosocial and environmental factors. Given that the living room is the heart of most homes, parents must ensure that this space is nurturing and engaging. To eliminate costly and tiring trial and error, here are some tips on creating the best living room for children with ADHD. Find flexible seating As…

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June 4, 2024

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Why Self-Care is Essential for Parents: Managing Stress and Anxiety

Parenting is one of life’s most rewarding journeys, but it demands extraordinary reserves of energy, patience, and resilience. In the midst of the daily whirlwind of responsibilities, parents often neglect their own well-being, which can have far-reaching consequences. Self-care is not a luxury; it’s a necessity that directly impacts both personal and parental effectiveness. While the concept of self-care is widely discussed, its true power lies in its ability to equip parents with the mental, emotional, and physical resources needed to navigate the challenges of raising a family. Prioritizing self-care helps parents build the resilience needed to manage stress and anxiety, creating a nurturing environment where their children can thrive. So, what does effective self-care look like for busy parents? And what are the consequences of neglecting this crucial aspect…

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May 15, 2024

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How to Recognize Signs of Stress and Anxiety in Your Child

As a parent, you want the best for your child, and that includes their mental well-being. In today's world, children face numerous challenges that can lead to stress and anxiety. Recent studies indicate that up to 20.5% of children worldwide experienced anxiety symptoms during the pandemic, nearly doubling pre-pandemic rates. It's crucial to be aware of the signs and symptoms of stress and anxiety in your child so that you can provide them with the support they need. Recognizing Behavioral Signs of Stress and Anxiety One of the first things to look out for when it comes to stress and anxiety in your child is changes in their behavior. It is reported that behavioral problems, which can be indicators of underlying stress and anxiety, affected about 9.2% of children in…

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May 15, 2024