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Our Blog — Page 20

The True Progress Therapy blog is your trusted source for evidence-based ABA insights, autism research, and clinical perspectives. Designed for families seeking answers and professionals raising the bar — because meaningful progress starts with knowledge.

Showing 12 of 543 articles · page 20 of 46

Smiling autistic girl hugged by mother who kisses her on the head during in-home ABA therapy in NJ.
Autism Aug 2025

Are Autistic Kids Very Attached to Their Parents?

Yes, autistic kids can form strong, loving attachments to their parents, even if they show it differently. While they may not always express affection in typical ways (like hugs or eye contact), that doesn’t mean they don’t feel deeply connected. Autistic children often rely on their parents as a sa

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A little girl with autism is talking yo her mom using sign language
Autism Jul 2025

What Is Language Disorder Associated with Autism? Key Signs Support

The language disorder associated with autism involves challenges in understanding and using spoken language. It can range from delayed speech to difficulty with conversation, tone, and nonverbal cues. Key features include: Delayed Language Development: Some children speak later than their peers or u

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A child with autism is walking outdoors while being held by both his parents
Autism Jul 2025

Do Autistic Kids Live with Parents Forever? Exploring the Possibilities

Not all autistic kids live with their parents forever. Outcomes vary based on the individual’s support needs, skills, and available resources. With early intervention, life skills training, and therapy, many autistic individuals grow up to live independently or in supported housing. Options include:

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A girl with autism playing with colorful blocks on a table
Autism Jul 2025

Can Autism Get Worse If Untreated?

Autism itself does not "worsen" over time, but untreated autism can lead to more intense challenges. Without early support, a child may struggle more with communication, behavior, and daily functioning. Untreated autism may result in: Increased Behavioral Issues: Tantrums, aggression, or self-injury

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A mom is helping her autistic daughter talk
Autism Jul 2025

How to Make Autistic Kids Talk: Effective Strategies

Helping autistic kids develop speech starts with understanding their unique communication style. Here are effective ways to encourage talking: Use ABA Therapy: Applied Behavior Analysis breaks speech into small, teachable steps using positive reinforcement. Start with Motivation: Offer preferred ite

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An autistic child thinking in loop
Autism Jul 2025

Understanding Autistic Looping: Causes and Support

For many people with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), the world can be overwhelming, fast-paced, and emotionally intense. Among the many behaviors associated with autism, autistic looping is often misunderstood. Caregivers, educators, and even medical professionals may find themselves puzzled when a

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People watching through their mobile phones
Autism Jul 2025

Autism Media Representation: What’s Right and Wrong and Why It Matters

The way the media portrays autism can significantly shape how society understands autism spectrum disorder (ASD). From news headlines and reality TV to scripted dramas and animated shows, autism media representation plays a powerful role in influencing public perception, awareness, and even policy.

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A toddler with autism is trying to open a drawer alone
Autism Jul 2025

Home Safety Tips for Autism: A Complete Guide for Parents

Children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) often experience the world differently. While these differences enrich their perspective, they also pose unique safety challenges, especially in the home. From sensory sensitivities and impulsive behaviors to limited danger awareness and elopement risks,

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A girl with autism is laying on the floor with memory game cards
Autism Jul 2025

Do People with Autism Have Good Memory?

Yes, many people with autism have strong memory skills, especially in specific areas. Autistic individuals often excel in rote memory, which involves recalling facts, dates, patterns, or sequences. Some may also have exceptional long-term memory or heightened attention to detail. However, memory str

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Two kids with autism laying on the floor playing with colorful blocks
Autism Jul 2025

How Do Autistic Children Play? Exploring the Characteristics

Autistic children may play differently from their peers, often engaging in solitary, repetitive, or sensory-based play. They might line up toys, spin objects, or focus intensely on a specific part of a toy rather than using it traditionally. Pretend play may be limited or unique, and social play can

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A child with autism is sitting on the floor holding a colorful fidget toy
Autism Jul 2025

Can You Self Identify as Autistic? What You Need to Know

Yes, you can self-identify as autistic, especially if you recognize traits in yourself that align with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Many adults, particularly women and marginalized individuals, go undiagnosed in childhood and later find clarity through research and reflection. Self-identification

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A child with autism using an iPad
Autism Jul 2025

Should I Give My Autistic Child an iPad?

Yes, when used thoughtfully, an iPad can be a powerful tool for autistic children. Many apps support communication, learning, and emotional regulation. For nonverbal children, AAC (augmentative and alternative communication) apps allow them to express needs and feelings. Educational games also help

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About the Author

Michele Young

Regional Clinical Director

MS · CCC-SLP · BCBA · LBA

Michele has been working with young people with autism since 2009, bringing more than 15 years of hands-on clinical experience to every article she writes. A Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) and Licensed Speech-Language Pathologist (CCC-SLP), Michele has built programs at Rutgers, led behavioral services at Autism Family Services of NJ, taught graduate students at LaSalle University, and worked in schools across New Jersey and the Carolinas.

As Regional Clinical Director at True Progress Therapy, Michele oversees clinical operations and makes sure every BCBA on the team has what they need to deliver real, measurable results for families.

She writes about ABA therapy, autism support, communication-building strategies, and what families and therapists can do to drive measurable progress — translating decades of clinical experience into guidance you can actually use.

Clinical Specialties

  • Functional Communication Training (FCT)
  • Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS)
  • Real-world ABA program design
Credentials & Verification

BACB Certification #1-10-6918

Active · Certified since 2010

Verify on BACB