Sleep is a fundamental aspect of a child’s development, crucial to their overall well-being. However, when it comes to autistic children, sleep disorders can be a particularly challenging issue that affects not only the child but also their families. At CCH, we’ve worked with many families dealing with this complex issue. In this blog, we’ll
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The pincer grasp is a crucial developmental milestone in children that typically emerges around the age of 9 to 12 months. It refers to using the thumb and index finger to pick up small objects or precisely manipulate items. This seemingly simple skill carries many benefits for a child’s physical, cognitive, and social development. In
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This year Complete Children’s Health (CCH) marks 15 years of dedicated service to the Moonee Valley and the North-Western suburbs of Melbourne and regional Victoria since our establishment in 2008 under the directorship of Dr Yolanda Arduca, Dr Natashia Dilla and Dr Jo Martin. To celebrate this special 15-year anniversary, we extend our heartfelt
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Every child possesses unique abilities and differences, making it essential for neurotypical children to develop empathy and understanding towards their special needs peers. Here are some valuable insights into promoting kindness and compassion in neurotypical children. We explore various strategies to encourage empathy and understanding among children, fostering a more inclusive and compassionate society. Setting
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Growing up with a sibling with a disability or autism can be a unique and challenging experience. In such situations, it is not uncommon for parents to focus primarily on the sibling with special needs, as they require additional care, support, and resources. This dynamic can impact other siblings’ lives in various ways, and it
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Picky eating is a common challenge for parents, but fear not, it’s a natural part of a child’s development. As children assert their independence, their food preferences may become more selective. Instead of getting caught up in mealtime struggles, let’s explore playful strategies to broaden their taste horizons and embark on an enjoyable culinary journey!
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In today’s fast-paced digital age, children often find themselves immersed in screens, disconnected from the wonders of the natural world. However, for children on the autism spectrum, the benefits of outdoor playtime are particularly profound. Beyond the joy and freedom it brings, outdoor play fosters cognitive awareness, enhances coordination, promotes social integration, strengthens physical
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Sleep issues are a common concern for children on the autism spectrum and can significantly impact their overall well-being and development. Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects social communication and behaviour and is often accompanied by sensory sensitivities, anxiety, and other conditions that can interfere with sleep. Sleep problems can include
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Stimming, short for self-stimulatory behaviour, refers to repetitive or rhythmic movements or sounds a child engages in to stimulate their senses. These behaviours include hand-flapping, rocking, spinning, repeating words or phrases, and making repetitive noises. Stimming is often associated with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and other developmental conditions, but it can also be observed in
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What is a non-verbal cue? The best way to describe a non-verbal cue is to think about facial expressions and body language. Some studies say there are seven non-verbal cues, and others say ten. So here are the ten to ensure we don’t miss any: Facial Expressions Gestures Paralinguistics (tone, loudness, inflection, and pitch of
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