autism features

"In my own case, I have 'mild cerebral palsy hemiparesis', which means two limbs are affected".

Shopping can be a challenging experience for children on the autistic spectrum. With increased restrictions on where we can and can't go due to the coronavirus pandemic, our shopping habits have come under scrutiny. Here, Rachel Clinkard, from shoe retailer Charles Clinkard, shares how their business has been able to adapt their shops to make them more autism-friendly. 

Joanna Grace is a Sensory Engagement and Inclusion Specialist, author, trainer, TEDx speaker, and Founder of The Sensory Projects. Here, she writes for Learning Disability Today about her research examining how we can best use sensory rooms to support people.

On 31/10/19, we facilitated a #LDTchat on people with learning disabilities being excluded from autism research. Catch up on what was discussed here.

Freelance autism consultant ad trainer Suzanne Comberousse writes for Learning Disability Today about what exactly is meant by the term "neurodiversity". 

In 2016, the UK government launched a groundbreaking drive to reduce the use of psychotropic drugs for people with autism and learning disabilities. But recent figures show that while prescribing rates for antipsychotics have fallen since the campaign’s launch, antidepressants, hypnotics, and stimulants have all risen.

On 18/07/19, we facilitated a #LDTchat on neurodiversity. Catch up on what was discussed here.

An interview with Dr Phoebe Caldwell, an expert in Intensive Interaction.

Having an autistic spectrum disorder, learning disability, or mental health problem should not prohibit someone from enjoying cultural events such as theatre. A playhouse in Nottingham is using theatre to facilitate discussion and tackle stigma.

Oliver McGowan died after being given antipsychotic medicine against his and his family's wishes. His mother speaks exclusively to LDT. 

Recent research shows that therapeutic horse riding has many benefits for autistic children: from a reduction in hyperactivity, to an improvement in word fluency. 

Explores whether CBT can be adapted and used effectively for people with learning disabilities. 

Aquatic therapy goes beyond decreasing stress - it is showing results in developing speech.

Imagine seeing and tasting a favourite song as well as being drawn to its familiar melody. This is how those with synesthesia — a condition where the senses are joined — can experience the world. Darren Devine reports.

An appeal for diagnoses to be made more constructively has been published.