Written by Dr. John Carosso Water in the face, Tabasco sauce… There have been some recent stories about parents and teachers using ‘aversive’ techniques to ‘punish’ autistic children for misbehavior. One boy was stuffed in a bag and another was squirted in the face with water. I’ve also heard stories of parents using Tabasco hot […]
Written by Dr. John Carosso Tragedy happens: what can we say? Whether it’s a school shooting, car crash, natural disaster, or a natural death of a loved one, we must regularly face the pain of tragedy and loss. I am often asked by parents how they can relieve the pain and fear experienced by their […]
Written by Dr. Carosso Is it good to talk to yourself? Sure it is. In fact, this is how we, as humans, problem-solve and work through our difficulties. We learn, beginning at a young age, how to ‘talk things through’ in our head, which helps us to process our feelings, experiment with potential problem-solving strategies, […]
Written by Dr. John Carosso Proud to Announce: I am very pleased to announce that I’ve taken-on the role of Director of the nonprofit Autism Center of Pittsburgh (ACP). Of course, I’ll be continuing at Community Psychiatric Centers, with Dr. Lowenstein, conducting evaluations, providing consultation, and overseeing clinical matters. Thrilled to be part of the […]
Written by Dr. Carosso No Drama Outings: As many of you are too well aware, taking your kids out to the store, or restaurant, can be as adventure-packed as any Indiana Jones movie. However, those are occasions you’d rather do without the drama. Get some help: If you want some help to improve your child’s […]
Written by Dr. Carosso The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual is the primary manual psychologists use to diagnose. The upcoming Fifth Edition will have some significant revisions to how autism is diagnosed, and I’m hearing concerns from parents that this could effect insurance reimbursement and services. Well, there are some significant changes; gone are the current […]
Hair-loss prevention The behavior of children with attention deficit and hyperactivity can cause parents to pull out their hair. So, before you become bald, which clearly would add insult to injury, you may want some pointers. Fortunately, I have an approach to treating hyperactive kids that might save what’s left of your hair. I love […]
Written by Dr. Carosso It’s not uncommon that kids may become overly emotional, even tantrummatic at times. Parents typically ignore such behavior and send the child to their room to calm, which can be an effective and appropriate strategy. To isolate or not to isolate? For kids who show more severe emotion, banishing to the […]
The benefits of brilliance Okay, I know you want your kiddo to be smart, get good grades, and achieve lots of academic success. It’s wonderful to see that ‘A’ on the report card, and it makes you feel proud and encouraged for your child’s future. Smart = Wise? We want our kids to be […]
