Autism Spectrum Disorder
What Is Autism Spectrum Disorder?
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that can cause mild to significant social, cognitive, communication and behavioural challenges.
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Some common characteristics include:
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Difficulties understanding and using verbal and non-verbal communication
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Difficulties recognizing and interpreting social cues
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Difficulties developing and maintaining relationships
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Difficulties recognizing the emotions of self and others
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Difficulties taking the perspectives of others
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Under or over sensitivity to sensory including sounds, smells, textures and lights
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Difficulties adapting to changes in routines
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Repetitive and restrictive behaviours
Our Treatment Approach:
At Thera+Kids, we utilize a variety of therapeutic interventions and methodologies. We develop individualized treatment plans to address the unique needs of each client. Our therapeutic interventions focus on social learning, cognitive flexibility, communication, play, and social-emotional/self regulation.
Methodologies that we use for younger children include the Social Thinking® curriculum We Thinkers! and Hanen® More Than Words. For older children, methodologies such as You are a Social Detective!, Social Thinking and Me, Superflex and the team of Unthinkables, and The Zones of Regulation ® are used. ​
Using these approaches in combination with multi-sensory, play-based activities including storytelling, art, pretend play, movement, music, drama and making videos, we teach the following skills in a fun and motivating way:
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Language and communication
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Core social learning skills
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Social-emotional regulation
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Self modulation
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Theory of mind (the ability to take the perspective of other people)
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Cognitive flexibility
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Ability to function in a group
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Problem solving and negotiation
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Age-appropriate play skills
Family involvement is a priority. Therapy updates and home-based activities are provided to carry over skills. We empower caregivers as their children become better social thinkers, and problem solvers while improving behaviour and self confidence.
