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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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Not anti-social, just differently social.
Socialising can be confusing and exhausting for many autistic children. This doesn’t mean they’re antisocial—they're differently social. It's especially important to remember this for children without intellectual disabilities, as they can often be expected to cope better than they actually can. Instead of pushing for conventional social milestones, focus on your child's individual capacity for connection. One meaningful friendship that aligns with their interests can be far
6 days ago


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, 2025


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, 2025


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, 2025


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, 2025


Supporting a child with auditory processing disorder
When your child struggles to understand spoken instructions, everyday life can feel like a constant uphill battle, not just for them, but...
Sep 8, 2025


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, 2025


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, 2025


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, 2025


Why Autistic/ADHD students find secondary school more challenging
Learn why autistic/ADHD pupils struggle in secondary school.
Aug 4, 2025


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, 2025


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, 2025


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, 2025


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, 2025


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, 2025


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, 2025


Understanding Multiple Diagnoses: Looking at the Whole Child
You’ve waited months—sometimes years—for answers. And then suddenly, the diagnoses start coming in thick and fast. Just like buses, you...
Mar 24, 2025


Extra Time in Exams: Why you need it & how you might use it
Exam season can be overwhelming for any student, but when you’re requesting accommodations for your autistic or ADHD child, it often...
Mar 5, 2025


How to support your child with everyday tasks
As parents of autistic children, we all face moments when our child struggles with tasks that seem simple to others—things like brushing...
Feb 27, 2025


The problem with short school holidays
The problem with short school holidays It's half term for a lot of the UK. Children have a week off school to rest and spend time with...
Feb 19, 2025


Help your teen through Valentine's Day
Valentine’s Day can feel tricky for autistic teenagers. The focus on romance and big expectations can be overwhelming. It might make them...
Feb 12, 2025
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