Jewel Autism Centre

DEEP PRESSURE THERAPY Deep pressure has been defined as the “sensation produced when an individual is hugged, squeezed, stroked, or held”. It is widely used by occupational therapists working with children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) and is thought to be rewarding, reducing symptoms of stress and anxiety and improving performance in school. Deep pressure is based on sensory integration theory as initially developed by Ayres in the 1960s and 1970s. The use of deep pressure for individuals with autism spectrum disorders has been widely discussed since Temple Grandin described her self-designed machine (hug machine) for giving her the pressure sensations that she craved. Other types of deep pressure therapy include weighted garments, swaddling, holding, stroking, and hugging, squeezing, and therapeutic brushing. Deep Pressure Stimulation (DPS) is firm but gentle squeezing, hugs, or holding that relaxes the nervous system. This pressure can be applied with the hands, speci...

Tantrums Tantrums   are unpleasant and disruptive behaviors or emotional outbursts. They often occur in response to unmet needs or desires. Tantrums are more likely to occur in younger children or others who cannot express their needs or control their emotions when they are frustrated. A tantrum is an outburst that happens when kids are trying to get something they want or need. Temper tantrums are pretty typical for toddlers and preschoolers. Once kids have more language to express themselves, tantrums tend to subside a little.               A Meltdown is very different from a tantrum. It’s a reaction to feeling overwhelmed. For some kids, it happens when they’re getting too much sensory input—that’s information coming in from their senses. Kids may become upset by certain sounds, sights, tastes, and textures. You might hear this called sensory overload. The commotion...

Generalized Anxiety Disorder If your child has generalized anxiety disorder, or GAD, he or she will worry excessively about a variety of things such as grades, family issues, relationships with peers, and performance in sports. Children with GAD tend to be very hard on themselves and strive for perfection. They may also seek constant approval or reassurance from others.   Panic Disorder Panic disorder is diagnosed if your child suffers at least two unexpected panic or anxiety attacks—which means they come on suddenly and for no reason—followed by at least one month of concern over having another attack, losing control, or "going crazy." Separation Anxiety Disorder Many children experience separation anxiety between 18 months and three years old, when it is normal to feel some anxiety when a parent leaves the room or goes out of sight. Usually children can be distracted from these feelings.It’s also common for your child to cry when first being...