Challenging behaviors are frequently among the most stressful concerns for parents raising children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). In this episode, host Stefanie Boucher speaks with occupational therapist and autism expert, Mary Beth Kadlec, about the underlying causes of behavior challenges and the ways in which parents and caregivers can foster increased emotional regulation.

Tune in to find out why many parents miscalculate their child’s developmental level and how this can impact behavior; how to adjust your communication strategies to better match your child; how to work with your child’s school to improve behavior both at home and within the school environment; and, why adaptive physical education is critical for kids with ASD and how the school can foster more positive gym experiences for all kids.

About Our Guest:

Mary Beth Kadlec is an occupational therapist and the Program Director at the Center for Autism and Neurodevelopmental Disorders (CANDO) at the University of Massachusetts Memorial Medical Center and the Eunice Kennedy Shriver Center, which provides cutting edge services to children with autism and their families. She has 36 years of occupational therapy experience, and she has devoted her career to helping caregivers and providers develop more effective ways to support children at home, in school, and in the community.

To learn more about Mary Beth or CANDO, visit the CANDO website: https://www.umassmed.edu/psychiatry/clinicalservices/child-adolescent-clinical-services/cando