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Autism Spectrum Disorder
New Program Developments
We launched our autism services in Thunder Bay, ON at Creative Therapy Autism Centre, 1201 Amber Drive.
Autism Spectrum Disorder, or simply Autism, refers to a complex neuro-developmental disorder usually diagnosed in childhood. Its symptoms include challenges with social skills, speech and communication issues, repetitive behaviours, and often special abilities and intense interest in a specific area.
There isn’t one autism but varying degrees, and each individual is unique. The term “spectrum” captures the many differences, challenges and strengths that each person with autism has. People on the autism spectrum see, hear and feel the world differently than other people.
Most autistic people have difficulty interpreting both verbal and nonverbal language, including tone of voice, facial expression, and sarcasm. They may experience language delays and disorders and may have difficulty with communication.
Repetitive behaviours are common, and changes in routine can be challenging for children with autism. This is often accompanied by highly focused interest in a specific area, and over- or under-sensitivity to sensory stimulation such as sounds, touch, tastes, smells, light, colours, temperatures or pain.
Our multidisciplinary team of Speech-Language Pathologists, Communicative Disorders Assistants, and Occupational Therapists believes that a collaborative approach is the best way to meet the needs of children with autism.
As your child’s parent, you know them best, and we will work with you to support your goals and work towards helping you and your child meet their full potential.
Related Posts
While all children develop differently, there are a number of milestones that may indicate your school-aged child is having difficulty with fine motor skills and would benefit by seeing an Occupational Therapist for an assessment and therapy, or intervention, plan. If you have a concern, consult your healthcare practitioner, or contact [insert link] our office for more information or to arrange an assessment.
While literacy includes reading and writing skills, it also involves a relationship with expressive language (communication). Many of the same basic skills needed for oral language are also needed for written language, with the addition of some higher-level skills. Early indicators a child may have difficulty with literacy: Family history of reading disability. First word not produced until after 15 months of age. Words not combined until after 24 months of age. Difficulty pronouncing words when older than 6 years of age. Lack of awareness and ability to use rhymes during preschool years. Inability to segment words into syllables after age 5.
Speech and language development is important for reading, writing, and learning. Early identification of challenges leads to early treatment and better outcomes in school. The following are standard milestones and may indicate a speech or language disorder. If you have concerns, see your healthcare practitioner or Contact Our Office to arrange an assessment.
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A child who has difficulty with visual motor skills has a hard time completing tasks that involve eye-hand coordination.
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Creative Therapy Associates
Our team specializes in speech and language therapy, and occupational therapy for children, adults, and seniors. Our offices are in Thunder Bay, Ontario, but we travel to communities in Northwestern Ontario.
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