Blogs, articles, advice and more from the minds behind Gersh Autism.
A neurotypical child, by their third birthday, can be expected to put together sentences in their own unique way. By 4 and 5, they are expected to carry on conversations. What do these expectations mean for a parent of a child on the autism spectrum? Often a lot of anxious googling,…
What is stimming? Everybody stims! Think pen-tapping, humming while you wait, or twirling hair. “Stimming”, or self-stimulation, is a way to regulate emotions or even entertain yourself for a moment. For those on the autism spectrum, stimming is usually more pronounced and is even part of the DSM-5 diagnostic criteria…
April is Autism Acceptance Month, which is a time to raise awareness and promote understanding and inclusion of autistic individuals. This month is an opportunity for individuals on the autism spectrum, their families, and friends to celebrate and honor the unique strengths and contributions of individuals with autism. As families…
In the early days of an autism diagnosis, many parents are instantly told to speak with their insurance, find out what is covered, and obtain a list of covered providers. Like with any other disability or medical need, what insurance covers tends to vary between states and between plans.
For many children, summer is a time of excitement, spontaneity, and freedom. For those on the autism spectrum, however, it also translates to a lack of routine, which can bring anxiety and overwhelm. Because children with autism rely so much on having a predictable schedule, planning and preparing them ahead…
When your child is diagnosed with autism, a likely part of their care plan is occupational therapy (OT). This is because the intent of OT is to help the child adapt to their environments more easily and become independent and functioning adults. For many children with autism, filtering out sensory…
Tips To Help Your Child Seeking Sensory Input It’s the kid who can’t sit still in the classroom. The one constantly distracted during the lesson. The child who gets so caught up in what they’re doing, they can’t transition to the next activity. Or the kid who melts down seemingly…
As a parent of a child on the autism spectrum, you likely already feel stretched too thin. The last thing you want to do is add even more responsibility into your household. However, we at Gersh Academy recognize the immense power animals have on our students. It is why we…
Explore how Gersh Academy has been leading the charge towards a more successful teaching model for individuals on the autism spectrum.
Kevin Gersh authors an article featured in Autism Parenting Magazine that explores the many benefits of sending children to a specialized school for autism, and how it can differ from other environments.
It’s a well-known fact that having a pet, or spending time with an animal, can have numerous benefits on a person’s mental and physical well-being. Explore how animals benefit individuals on the spectrum specifically.
As this pandemic continues, as a parent, you likely feel like you’re on an island with your child. Here are some tips from our teachers on how best to support your child during this time.
“Our daughter did not want to go school before Gersh Academy, she was absent a lot. Within the first few months she developed a nice feeling of trust with the staff where she was very willing to go to school. They don’t reprimand or use a reward system they are all just warm and understanding which is what she needs and I think every child needs. Intellectually I see her flourishing because she is much less anxious so she’s able to concentrate better. We feel very fortunate to have found a nice safe, warm, inviting atmosphere for our daughter.”
“At Gersh Academy we feel like we are among family, like we are at home. We know that our son is comfortable, it is a very nurturing place. Academically he is flourishing and socially he is much more outgoing; more comfortable in his own skin and his surroundings. Since coming to Gersh Academy he is more verbal. He used to give us one word answers and now he tells us what’s going on.”
“The teachers are great, they are able to customize the lessons towards the students strengths. There’s nothing better than seeing the excitement in the air, the smiles, creativeness and teamwork. Gersh Academy gives the gift that keeps giving, “ENDLESS ADVENTURES.”
“You guys rock! I can’t imagine my son attending any other school. Thank you for everything” – Jose R.