Suicide Prevention in Autism report and policy brief
Following a 2021 conference, a select group of lived experience experts and researchers met to draw together content from the conference into a final report and policy brief.
Posted inFamily wellbeing Study summary
Parental stress and Autism
OTARC 2014 Phd graduate Rebecca McStay discusses family stress and Autism
The nature of sleep difficulties in Autistic adults
Emma Baker, Murdoch Children’s Research Institute, OTARC Alumni, on the types and causes of sleep problems in Autistic adults
When to tell a child
My four year-old child has just been diagnosed with high functioning autism. She knows that something is happening (doctor visits, tests, etc). How and when should she be told about her ASD?
Wellbeing in mothers after their child’s recent autism diagnosis
Honours student, Jackie Maya, asked mothers to complete questionnaires evaluating their levels of stress, anxiety and depression and the coping strategy types they use.
Posted inAutism and sleep Study summary
Investigating behavioural, gastrointestinal, sleep and diet
By OTARC Master of Clinical Psychology candidate, Stephanie Mertins and Emeritus Professor Amanda Richdale
Parents of children with a diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder (Autism) often report more child behavioural, gastrointestinal and sleep difficulties than do parents of non-autistic children.
How does having an Autistic sibling affect toddlers?
Discover why ensuring families have access to early, family-focused supports is so important, as toddler siblings of Autistic children may be more vulnerable to emotional and behavioural challenges in the early years.
The emotional life of Autistic people
How do Autistic individuals perceive and engage with the social world? This blog post explores groundbreaking research using eye-tracking technology and a conversation with a 12-year-old Autistic boy named Ludwig. Discover how autism influences social understanding and why simple interactions, like a guessing game, reveal deeper insights into the unique ways Autistic individuals process social information.
Posted inAsk an Autism Researcher Autism and sleep
Should I use Melatonin to aid my daughter’s sleep?
Learn how to address sleep issues in Autistic children with calming bedtime routines, relaxation techniques, and the potential use of melatonin. Tips on sleep diaries and professional consultations included
Posted inFamily wellbeing SACS
Early identification of Autism: Why it’s important and why we need to have this conversation with parents
The Social Attention and Communication Study (SACS) has been pivotal in early autism identification since 2005. By recognising developmental differences in children as young as two, the program helps families access crucial services earlier, improving outcomes for both children and parents.