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Welcome to the Autability Blog
Here’s where we share our thoughts, insights, and experiences on all things autism and ADHD. From quick, practical reads to deeper, thought-provoking articles, we cover a wide range of topics that matter to neurodivergent individuals, their families, and the professionals who support them.
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All things have their place...
As Christmas approaches, we will be re sharing some posts from the last few years on how to prepare and support your child through the holiday festive season. We are kicking things off with this one! It's getting to the time of year where there are festive decorations and lights covering the streets. I have to admit I crave the visual stimulation of certain Christmas lights and last year enjoyed three outings to various nearby Christmas light trails. I can still visualise som
Nov 10


Why ABA is so damaging
Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) was once considered the "gold standard" “treatment” for autism, but many autistic adults and advocates argue it causes significant psychological harm. This is especially true given how autism cannot and does not need to be treated at all. ABA's main goal is to make autistic children appear "normal" by stopping natural autistic behaviours like stimming, and teaching them to behave like neurotypicals. This teaches autistic children that their na
Nov 5


ADHD Isn't Always Loud - Sometimes, It's Invisible
When most people think of ADHD, they picture high energy, impulsivity, or visible restlessness in the classroom. But for many students, especially those with inattentive or combined-type ADHD, the struggle looks very different. These students may appear quiet, hardworking, or even “model” pupils. They often go unnoticed because they spend so much energy trying to meet expectations, follow the rules, and avoid making mistakes. But behind the scenes, they’re masking enormous in
Oct 26


ADHD, Boredom & Challenging Behaviour
Many parents and teachers assume that children with ADHD struggle most when academic demands are too high. But there's a paradox that often catches families off guard: ADHD symptoms can get worse when a child isn't being challenged enough. Children with ADHD have neurological differences that affect their executive function, attention regulation, and impulse control. One aspect that's often misunderstood is that ADHD brains crave stimulation and novelty. When the environment
Oct 18


The link between ADHD, boredom & anxiety
If your child with ADHD seems more anxious, fidgety, or emotional when they're bored rather than busy, you're not imagining it. Under stimulation can trigger real anxiety in children (and adults) with ADHD. Think of the ADHD brain like a car engine that needs to run at a certain speed to work smoothly. When there's not enough happening—during repetitive homework, waiting in line, or sitting through easy lessons—the engine starts sputtering. This creates an uncomfortable, rest
Oct 15


How a child might act when avoiding sensory overload
Have you ever noticed your child cover their ears during loud noises, refuse to wear certain clothes, or become distressed in busy places...
Sep 25


Sensory processing and mealtimes
Mealtimes can be one of the most challenging parts of the day for many families with autistic children. What’s often misunderstood is...
Sep 19


Why Teachers Need to Know About Sensory Profiles
When a child struggles in the classroom, their reactions can sometimes be misunderstood. A child covering their ears, refusing to join...
Aug 31


Is your child already stressed about going back to school?
You’re not imagining it, and they’re not being dramatic. For many autistic and ADHD kids, the anxiety starts weeks before the first bell...
Aug 17


How To Help Your Child Prepare For School Emotionally
As September approaches, it’s tempting to focus on the practical side of getting ready for school, with new pens, fresh notebooks, and...
Aug 11


Feeling Calm vs. Being Regulated - Do you know the difference?
Recently, I have been looking back over some reports written about my son. I came across one that angered me as much today as it did 16...
Aug 8


Why Autistic/ADHD students find secondary school more challenging
Learn why autistic/ADHD pupils struggle in secondary school.
Aug 4


Why your autistic/ADHD teen might be extra sensitive
Why Is My Autistic or ADHD Teen So Sensitive Sometimes? Many parents notice that their autistic and/or ADHD teen seems extra sensitive to...
Jul 25


How to plan visits to friends and family this summer
Summer holidays often mean trips to visit family. While these visits can be filled with fun and connection, they also come with...
Jul 8


Autistic children & friendships outside of school
Many parents of autistic children notice something that can feel quite puzzling. Their child seems to get along well with certain...
Jun 18


Help your autistic child learn about who they are
Learning about who you are can be tricky for many people, but it can be especially hard for autistic children. Autistic children often...
Jun 4


Making Study Leave Work for Autistic Students
Study leave can be a nice break from noisy classrooms and busy social situations. But learning at home brings new challenges. Some...
May 30


Why an autism diagnosis still matters, even when the system is overwhelmed
Families often ask whether there is still any point in pursuing an autism diagnosis. With assessment waiting times stretching on for...
May 5


Why Being Honest About Progress Can Feel Risky
I’ve been helping a friend recently with their child’s EHC plan, and I’d forgotten just how disheartening that process can be. It’s...
Apr 14


More Than a Grade: Why Effort Matters More Than Results
In today’s world, it can feel like everything is measured, especially when it comes to our children. From the moment they are born, they...
Apr 8


Handling success & disappointment of exams
When exams don’t go well for your autistic child, it can be really tough—for them and for you. Autistic children often handle...
Mar 31
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