April 1, 2024
During Autism Awareness Month, it’s a time to learn more surrounding the benefits of early and proper intervention programs, which have the power to alter the course for children with ASD. The reason that early intervention is so important is due to neuroplasticity, which generally refers to how someone’s brain can adapt and learn due to experience. Read More
July 3, 2023
What could be better—it’s the middle of summertime, friends and family come together, and great food abounds at cookouts and neighborhood gatherings. But for families who have loved ones with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), this season can be tricky to navigate. Many of the aspects of this… Read More
June 30, 2023
As we all transition from cooler winter weather to warmer spring and summer months, there’s a lot to look forward to. Whether your family prefers backyard barbecues, baseball games or splashing at a nearby pool, it’s hard not to get excited about summertime activities. Read More
November 14, 2022
It’s the most wonderful time of the year, but even with all the enjoyable holiday festivities to look forward to, for many families, it also means navigating all that comes with the holidays that can be overwhelming for a child with autism. Considering all the new aspects involved… Read More
September 7, 2022
What is Wandering? It may be confusing to some why a person may decide to wander away from their home. What we do know is that wandering (also known as eloping) is a complex behavior that is common in individuals with autism. In fact, statistics… Read More
April 9, 2022
Research has shown that as many as 80% of children with autism spectrum disorder are affected by sleep issues. Inconsistent or inadequate sleep can exacerbate problem behaviors, so establishing a more consistent bedtime routine is worth the effort. When a child has a regular bedtime, it creates a sense of predictability in family routines. But it’s not only for Monday through Friday. It’s important that newly established routines carry through seven days a week. When all caregivers are committed and abide by a consistent bedtime routine, a child is more likely to learn the skills to fall asleep & stay asleep without disruption. This is especially important for children with autism, who are frequently most successful with predictable and consistent schedules.Bedtime routines should be short, predictable and expected. School-age children typically need 10-11 hours of sleep, however, there is research that suggests children with autism may need less. Read More
October 4, 2021
Your home has served many purposes over the last year — it’s become a gym, a school, a restaurant, an office and most importantly — is still the place your family gathers at the end of the day to laugh, relax and spend time together. For families with children with autism, ensuring their home is a safe place requires taking precautions in almost every room. That’s because many children with autism have sensory issues that make them more fixated on certain things in the home that could be dangerous. Additionally, a study found that half of all kids with autism wander and try to escape their own homes, resulting in devastating consequences. Read More
September 13, 2021
If atypical development points towards potential Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) warning signs, begin conversations with your doctor about diagnostic options. At 18 and 24 months, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that all children are screened for autism. Whether the signs were noticed during a well-check by the pediatrician, or certain behaviors (or lack of) have been a recent cause for concern, obtaining answers and a diagnosis are the first steps toward feeling in-control and helping your child.
Dr. Gregory Worthington, clinical psychologist at Acorn Health, explains what to do if you notice warning signs and the steps to take to obtain an official diagnosis. Read More
August 17, 2021
Acorn Health identifies the industry’s best clinical professionals to join our team, who are passionate and knowledgeable about helping children with autism achieve meaningful goals to improve their lives and independence. One of our most recent additions to our clinical staff is Dr. Gregory Worthington, PSYD, BCBA-D, who is now available to diagnose children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and other mental illness disorders in the Michigan area. This capability will ultimately speed up the process for which children can begin receiving treatment, which we know is a hurdle for many families. Families who receive an ASD diagnosis can then take that information to any provider in their area if/when they are ready to receive ABA services or other recommended treatments. Read More
July 14, 2021
Over the last decade, autism has become more widely known and understood between parents and medical professionals. Current estimates show that autism affects 1 in 54 children. For caregivers, the disorder can be very confusing and difficult to navigate since everyone’s experiences can vary so widely. It is a lifelong spectrum disorder; meaning individuals with autism can have very different challenges and strengths. What we do know is that early intervention is incredibly important, and leads to positive outcomes and earlier progress for children and their families.
Understanding common signs and characteristics of autism can help parents and caregivers lead their child toward a fulfilling and independent life by providing intervention as soon as possible. Read More