This Month's Highlights

When Behavior Is Communication

Parents can support autistic children through nervous system awareness.

Sara Wilfred

When Hidden Medical Factors May Affect Behavior

An MD and autism parent shares common medical reasons why a child may be “acting out”.

Dr. Joy Eberhardt De Master, MD, FAAP


Q&A with Dr. Temple Grandin

This month, Dr. Temple Grandin answers questions about schools and the education system.

Dr. Temple Grandin, PhD


From Social Challenges to Confidence

Parents can help their child gain confidence when they understand their social challenges.

Mitch Leppicello, MSW, LICSW


Making Big Tasks Manageable

Breaking larger tasks into smaller steps helps make them less overwhelming and less stressful.

Jeremy Brown


Improving Writing for Communication

When writing improves, students can communicate with greater confidence.

Sharon Longo, BA


Success Story: Facing Unimaginable Challenges

A mom shares how her son successfully faced health challenges.

Cristin Wohl

Engaging Learning Strategies for Curious Minds

Engaged, interested children find value and meaning in their learning.

LaRaesha Kugel, MEd


Preparing for Emergencies

Tips for handling emergencies from a law enforcement dad with a child on the spectrum.

Christopher M. Diaz


Ask Dr. Malcolm

Dr. Malcolm answers parents’ questions and concerns about their autistic children.
Dr. Ronald I. Malcolm, EdD

Helping Teens Build Job Skills for the Future

Learning job skills early can make the transition to employment less stressful.

Sara R. Colorosa, PhD


Susie’s Story: Communication Beyond Words

Nonspeaking does not always mean noncommunicating.

Jami Williams, MA ASD


What’s New on the Bookshelf?
Rowan and Gemma

When Rowan and Gemma meet on the first day of high school, stars align . . . and storm clouds brew.

Sally J. Pla


What’s New on the Bookshelf?
H. A. K. Book Series

This book series features live animal heroes helping neurodiverse children feel understood.

Stevie Rae Hill

Dear Readers,

As October begins, many children have been settling into school and getting to know their teachers and classmates. While decorations around their environments may be a bit scary at this time, communicating with others in social environments or meeting their needs doesn’t have to be. Whether they are using gestures, an AAC device, or sign language, they should feel self-assured in how they do this.

This month’s theme is “Communicating with Confidence,” and every parent and caregiver wants to know their child or young adult isn’t struggling with this at school, work, or in other social situations. Our expert articles and parent essays are meant to support you in helping your child in this and other areas.

No matter how your child expresses themselves, they deserve to feel confident while doing so. While we can’t always shelter them from the skeletons, ghosts, or bats that pop up in stores or around the neighborhood, we can try to provide a safe space for them to make “spooktacular” connections within our families and with others.


Happy reading!

Sharon Longo
Editor
Autism Parenting Magazine

©2026 Autism Parenting Magazine