Preparing for Puberty in Children with Autism

In this webinar, Cora Taylor, Ph.D., covers a range of topics related to puberty in individuals with special developmental needs, including:
- Helping children understand and prepare for body changes associated with puberty
- Encouraging good hygiene
- Understanding public/private behaviors
- Handling issues surrounding boundaries and relationships

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[leannestrong]

I'm on the Autism spectrum, and hit puberty at about 8 or 9 years old, and started getting my period when I was 10. It might (not saying it is) also be a good idea to mention these changes to the younger siblings or children in your home. I know what you're probably thinking. "How do I explain to a child who is still at the age of princess dolls, superhero action figures, and two plus two (2+2), about more mature things, like their older sibling's changing body and hormonal moodiness?" Well, thankfully, you don't have to be too scientific about the explanation, but here's an example of how you can explain it. "Your older sibling's body and brain are going through a lot of big changes, and even though they might be feeling excited about all of the big changes, they might be feeling angry, sad, scared, or even embarrassed about them sometimes too. So even though your sibling still loves you just as much as they always have, they might not always be as patient with you as they've been in the past, because of all of the big changes, and the way they are making them feel."

[pattybiggs]

I have an almost 12 year old nephew with autism, and this video was very informative, and had some great ideas. Thank you for posting it!

[nikangel]

Have you heard of Autistic or Intellectual Disability kids, not eating during puberty? My Son is 12, past few months he doesn't want to eat food. Only 10-12 bottles of pediasure.

[KalebB-jcwp]

Simply genius! And yes, I tried what I read the other day and it was mind blowing to see her writhing with pleasure and ready for anything. It started when I learned to last at least 30 minutes go’ogling the latest in Greyzar Drinbo's PE Solution and now she keeps dragging me back lol