How To Know If Your Autistic Child Understands

Is your autistic child really intellectually delayed, or has their motor planning disability been mistaken for cognitive impairment? In this video, I break down the neuroscience behind why standard assessments fail autistic children and what you can do about it starting TODAY. 🧠 What You'll Learn: How the basal ganglia controls voluntary movement, habits, and motivation, and why dysfunction here affects what your child can show you Why the thalamus and sensory overload make it nearly impossible for your child to perform on demand The critical difference between understanding and movement, and why assessments confuse the two Why speech is a motor skill, not a measure of intelligence What whole body apraxia is and why every autism parent needs to know about it How to help your child communicate beyond traditional AAC 📌 Key Takeaway: Every assessment your child takes requires a motor movement on demand. If their motor planning system is impaired, the results don't reflect what they actually know. Presume competence. 💬 Has your child ever surprised you with what they understood? Drop it in the comments below 👇 💬 Have questions? Drop them in the comments below! 👍 Found this helpful? Please like and subscribe for more evidence-based strategies for parents and professionals. 🔔 Subscribe for weekly videos on supporting children with complex autism and whole-body apraxia! IMPORTANT RESOURCES: 🔗 Helpful Resources & Links: https://www.drdanajohnson.com https://www.spellerstampa.com https://www.spelleratlanta.com X: https://x.com/drdanajohnson    / @drdanajohnson   🔗 Spellers Method: www.spellers.com 🎬 Spellers Documentary: • SPELLERS THE MOVIE    • SPELLERS THE MOVIE (Documentary)   📍 Find a Spellers Center: www.spellerstampa.com or www.spellersatlanta.com 📚 Learn About Whole-Body Apraxia: www.drdanajohnson.com Disclaimer: The information provided on this channel is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. I am a licensed occupational therapist, not a medical doctor. The content shared reflects my professional experience, clinical insights, and personal opinions, and should not be interpreted as a substitute for individualized medical, diagnostic, or therapeutic advice. Always consult your physician, licensed healthcare provider, or qualified specialist for guidance specific to your child’s needs. Use of this content is at your own discretion and risk. Viewing or interacting with this channel does not create a therapist-client relationship. #autismtherapy #apraxia #nonverbalcommunication #telepathytapes #abatherapy #nonspeakingautism #s2c #autism #asd #autismsupport #autismtreatment #autismmom