Honoring the Intersection of Autism and LGBTQIA+ Identity at MAC Midwest By Jaime Larry, MSW, LICSW, Director of QSP Services At MAC Midwest, we believe every individual deserves to feel truly seen. For who they are and how they experience the world. That means creating a space where people feel safe, supported, and valued across … Read more
Helping families feel confident, prepared, and supported all summer long. By Jaime Larry, MSW, LICSW, Director of QSP Services As the days grow longer and the temperatures rise, many of us look forward to more time spent outdoors. But for families of children with autism and others with increased safety awareness needs, summer also brings … Read more
Supporting Your Child Through Co-Regulation: The Foundation for Emotional Growth By MAC Midwest When raising a child with autism or other developmental needs, one of the biggest challenges families face is helping their child learn how to regulate emotions. Meltdowns, anxiety, frustration, and sensory overload are common experiences for many children on the autism spectrum. … Read more
Exploring the connection between meaningful activity and emotional wellbeing. By MAC MidwestThis piece was developed in collaboration with Clare Koezly Escobar, OTD, OTR/L, BCP, Lead ) Occupational Therapist at MAC Midwest As we reflect on Occupational Therapy Month in April and Mental Health Acceptance Month in May, it is a powerful time to recognize how … Read more
Where Policy Meets Purpose: MAC Midwest’s Spring Advocacy in Action By MAC Midwest At MAC Midwest, we do more than provide services. We work to protect access to them. This spring, that commitment is taking us beyond the therapy room and into the legislative arena, where important decisions are still being made about the future … Read more
Why mental health matters for our clients, our staff, and our community—this month and every month By Jaime Larry, Director of QSP Services, MAC Midwest May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and this year, we are reminded more than ever that mental health is a global issue. It is not just a Minnesota issue. It … Read more
A Look Back at Autism Acceptance Month and the Community That Shows Up By MAC Midwest At MAC Midwest, Autism Acceptance is not confined to a single month. It is part of everything we do. You will find it in every center, every therapy session, every family conversation, and every step we take alongside the … Read more
A National Snapshot: The CDC’s Latest Autism Prevalence Report By Leslie Chaplin, PhD, MSW, LICSW, Chief Clinical Officer at MAC Midwest In April 2025, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) released its most recent report through the Autism and Developmental Disabilities Monitoring (ADDM) Network. The data reflect ongoing increases in the prevalence of autism … Read more
At MAC Midwest, we believe that every individual deserves therapy that is not only effective but also compassionate and trauma-informed. That’s why we employ the Happy, Relaxed, and Engaged (HRE) approach throughout all of our ABA therapy programs. This progressive model prioritizes the well-being of each learner, creating an optimal environment for growth, skill-building, and … Read more
Whether you’re heading out for a family vacation, traveling for a special event, or just planning a weekend getaway, traveling with a child on the autism spectrum comes with a unique set of considerations. New environments, long waits, unfamiliar routines, and sensory overload can make travel feel overwhelming—for both children and parents. But travel can … Read more
Why Do Children with Autism Experience Feeding Challenges? Feeding challenges are common among individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), with studies suggesting that up to 80% of children with autism experience some form of feeding difficulty. These challenges can range from food selectivity and aversions to sensory sensitivities and difficulty with self-feeding. Common reasons for … Read more
Life is full of transitions—starting school, moving to a new home, switching therapists, or even adjusting to changes in daily routines. While these shifts can be challenging for anyone, they can be especially difficult for children on the autism spectrum. Predictability and routine are key components of a child’s sense of security, and when those … Read more
Good hygiene is an essential life skill that contributes to well-being, self-confidence, and independence. For children with autism, learning these skills can sometimes be challenging due to sensory sensitivities, communication difficulties, and the need for structure. However, with a thoughtful approach tailored to your child’s unique needs, teaching hygiene can become a manageable and rewarding … Read more
Wandering is a serious concern for families in the autism community. It can be a stressful experience for both the individual and their loved ones. At MAC, we are committed to helping families feel empowered and connected to resources that support their safety and well-being. Here’s what you need to know about wandering and how … Read more
Navigating the transition from therapy programs to adult services for your child with autism is a significant milestone. At MAC, we understand that every step forward matters, and with careful planning, your family can thrive through this change. Here are seven key tips to help you prepare for this important transition. 1. Plan Ahead—It’s Never … Read more
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a developmental condition that affects communication, social skills, and behavior. If you’re asking questions like, “What is autism?” or “Does my child have autism?” you’re not alone. As a parent, it’s important to understand what autism is and recognize its signs early to get the right support for your child. … Read more
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