Autism Awareness Month isn't just about awareness—it's about celebration. It's a time to honor neurodiversity, creativity, and community by recognizing the many ways children experience and interact with the world. This April, we wanted to create something meaningful and fun—a toolkit for families to celebrate autism, imagination, and all the little things that make each child beautifully unique. Inside, you'll find curated movie picks, sensory-friendly and uplifting playlists, printable activities, and more!

This toolkit is designed to be flexible and fun!

You can print it out or use it digitally—at home, in therapy sessions, or even on the go. Share it with grandparents,  teachers, or therapists, and most importantly—share your child’s creations with us!

We’d love to see the joy in action. Just tag us on social media and help us spread the love and color of Autism Awareness Month!

Curated Movie List: Meaningful Stories with Neurodivergent Characters or Themes

Each of these movies and shows highlights neurodivergent characters, social-emotional growth, or sensory-friendly storytelling that helps kids feel seen, understood, and inspired. From animated shorts to full-length features, these stories spark meaningful conversations about identity, empathy, and the many beautiful ways people experience the world around us.

(You can find all of these featured in our downloadable PowerPoint, complete with movie posters and short notes on how each story supports empathy, inclusion, and emotional growth.)

We’ve created two special playlists to enjoy throughout the month: one for calm moments and one to lift spirits.

Music has a powerful way of reaching the brain and body- especially for children with autism. Studies show that certain types of music, like classical pieces and tracks with a slow, steady beat (typically around 60-80 beats per minute), can help regulate the nervous system, reduce anxiety, and support focus. These gentle rhythms and predictable melodies offer a sense of safety and calm, making music a valuable tool during transitions, therapy sessions, or wind-down time. This sensory-sensitive playlist was thoughtfully curated to promote relaxation, emotional balance, and comfort- one beautiful note at a time.

While calming music helps settle the senses, uplifting music can spark joy, boost energy, and build confidence. Songs with positive lyrics, familiar melodies, and predictable rhythms can support emotional expression, encourage movement, and create meaningful moments of connection. Whether it’s dancing with a parent, singing along with a favorite character, or simply smiling at a catchy chorus, this playlist was designed to celebrate creativity, joy, and self-expression in a way that feels safe, fun, and empowering.

Creativity is a powerful way for kids to connect with themselves- and this toolkit was made to celebrate it. These printable activities are designed to help kids express who they are, explore different emotions, and enjoy sensory-friendly fun. 

From coloring pages to emotional check-ins, each page encourages self-expression in a way that feels safe, joyful, and uniquely theirs.

Page 1: “My Superpower is…” – Kids fill in what makes them unique!

Page 2: “Reach for the Stars” – Galaxy background for big dreams.

Page 3: Company Values/Ribbon – Features a ribbon alongside images and words for Courage, Happiness, Excellence, Family, and Love.

Whether you’re a parent, therapist, teacher, or sibling—this toolkit is for you! Let’s make Autism Awareness Month more than a moment. Let’s make it a celebration of creativity, courage, and connection all of the time!

Print it. Share it. Color it. Dance to it.

And when you do, don’t forget to tag our clinic so we can celebrate alongside you!

Together, we make the world more inclusive, joyful, and kind—one wonderful child at a time.

Autism Awareness Month at Home: A Toolkit

As parents, we all want to see our children grow and develop in a healthy, happy way. However, sometimes we notice that something doesn't seem quite right with their development, behavior, or emotional well-being. If you're feeling concerned or confused about your child's development, you're not alone—and we’re here to help!

, we offer comprehensive psychological evaluations to help you better understand your child’s strengths and challenges. Dr. Jamie Roig, Ph.D., a licensed psychologist with over 17 years of experience, conducts these evaluations at our Lexington office. The goal of these evaluations is to provide clarity, guidance, and personalized recommendations.

Here, we answer some of the most common questions parents have about psychological evaluations for children.

Have you ever had concerns that something was not quite right with your child’s development? You are not alone, and we are here to help!

From the time of conception, children grow and develop differently. Sometimes, the development we see doesn’t fit with what is considered normal or average and this can cause worry and confusion. Marshall Pediatric Therapy is now offering comprehensive psychological evaluation with Jamie Roig, Ph.D. at our Lexington office. Through a comprehensive psychological evaluation, Dr. Roig will help you understand your child’s development by collecting information needed to diagnose a variety of emotional, behavioral, developmental, and neurodivergent areas including:

Dr. Roig’s evaluations provide the clarity you need to make informed decisions for your child's future.

The evaluation process is designed to be thorough yet comfortable for both you and your child. It begins with an 

, where we gather important information about your child's development, social history, and health. We’ll also review any previous evaluations and treatment plans to help us understand your child's needs better.

Afterward, Dr. Roig will conduct one-on-one assessments with your child. These assessments are designed to evaluate areas such as cognitive ability, emotional regulation, behavior, and learning. Depending on the circumstances, we may also gather input from teachers and other caregivers, and review relevant records.

Once the evaluation is complete, we’ll schedule a 

 to share the results, answer your questions, and discuss recommendations for interventions or further treatments.

What age can children be referred for evaluation?

Dr. Roig is highly experienced with children and adolescents aged 

. Concerns about development, behavior, or emotional challenges may arise at any age, but sometimes these issues become more apparent as children enter more demanding environments, such as upper elementary, middle, or high school. Dr. Roig’s expertise allows her to assess children and make appropriate recommendations regardless of their age.

Does my child have to receive therapy at Marshall Pediatric Therapy if they see Dr. Roig for an evaluation?

No, your child does not have to receive therapy at Marshall Pediatric Therapy if they see Dr. Roig for an evaluation.

 The evaluation itself is independent, and at the end of the process, Dr. Roig will provide recommendations for treatment or interventions. If you choose to proceed with services at Marshall Pediatric Therapy, we can place your child on the waitlist, pending availability. However, you are free to explore other options for therapy and support.

While Marshall Pediatric Therapy does not offer crisis assessments, we understand that unexpected situations can arise. If your child is in immediate crisis, we will recommend appropriate referrals for prompt intervention to ensure your child gets the help they need as quickly as possible.

Do evaluations have to be conducted in person?

One-on-one assessments with children must be conducted in person

, as this allows Dr. Roig to observe and interact directly with your child. However, 

intake interviews and follow-up sessions are available via telehealth

 for your convenience, allowing you to participate from the comfort of your own home.

 for psychological evaluations, and we may also offer self-pay options. For more detailed information on insurance coverage or self-pay rates, please contact our office directly. Our team is happy to assist you in navigating this process to ensure that you receive the support you need.

If you’ve been concerned about your child’s development or behavior, a psychological evaluation can provide the clarity you need. Dr. Roig’s comprehensive approach ensures that all aspects of your child’s development are considered, and we are committed to offering clear answers and actionable recommendations.

At Marshall Pediatric Therapy, we are here to support your family and help your child build skills for life. Whether it’s understanding a possible diagnosis, identifying strengths and weaknesses, or finding the right interventions, we’re here for you every step of the way.

! We look forward to helping you better understand and support your child's unique needs.

Comprehensive Psychological Evaluations for Children: Your Questions Answered

The holiday season is often filled with joy, excitement, and lots of family time—but it can also throw our routines completely out of whack. Travel, late nights, new environments, and family gatherings can all disrupt your child’s sense of stability, leading to stress and overwhelm. As parents, it’s tough to find a balance between enjoying the holidays and maintaining a sense of routine that keeps your little one grounded. But don’t worry! We’ve got some advice straight from a mental health therapist to help your child stay in rhythm this holiday season.

1. Stick to a Routine as Much as Possible

The holidays often mean late nights, changes in meal times, and spontaneous activities—but one thing that can help your child stay regulated is keeping their sleep schedule as consistent as possible. This might mean adjusting bedtimes a little if you’re traveling or attending late-night events, but try to keep wake-up times and bedtimes close to their usual routine.

Consistency in daily activities, like eating at similar times or having quiet time before bed, can also be a great way to anchor your child’s day. Even if the environment feels chaotic, maintaining a semblance of routine will give them a sense of predictability.

Holiday gatherings can be both fun and overwhelming—especially for younger kids or those who may have social anxiety. Many kids struggle with unfamiliar faces, new environments, or the sensory overload of larger crowds. Preparing them ahead of time can make a big difference.

Practice conversations, or talk through what they might expect at a family dinner or gathering. If they’re likely to be asked questions like, “How’s school going?” or “What’s your favorite gift this year?”, you can practice these responses to ease their nerves. Let your child know that it’s okay to take a break if they’re feeling overwhelmed. Encourage them to check in with their bodies, too—are they feeling anxious or stressed? If so, remind them that it’s okay to step away, take a breath, or find a quiet corner to reset.

While the holiday season is filled with social activities, don’t forget about the importance of downtime. Your child will need some space to recharge, especially if they’ve been around a lot of people or participating in busy activities. Make sure they’re getting enough sleep, and encourage naps or quiet time when needed.

If there’s been a lot of social stimulation, you might want to opt for a low-key family activity, like a cozy movie night at home. This gives everyone a chance to unwind and reconnect in a calm environment.

It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of the season and want to do it all. But remember, your child is still a child—and they may not be able to handle the same level of holiday activities as an adult. Be realistic about what your child can manage, and communicate expectations ahead of time.

If you know there’s a big family event or travel ahead, have a conversation with your child about what to expect. Let them know what’s coming up, and explain that there might be some busy or noisy moments, but that they can take breaks if they need to. Setting expectations helps manage any surprises and creates a sense of security.

5. Model Gratitude and Encourage Connection

The holidays are a time of giving thanks and reflecting on what we’re grateful for. By modeling gratitude, you not only teach your child about thankfulness, but you also help them focus on the positive aspects of the season.

Make it a family tradition to share something you’re thankful for each day, whether it’s around the dinner table or before bed. Encourage your child to participate, and let them see how gratitude can help reframe difficult moments.

With all the busyness of the holidays, it’s easy to overlook the simple joys of play. But spending time connecting with your child through board games, playtime, or creative activities is one of the best ways to keep them feeling secure and grounded.

Whether it’s a game of charades, a puzzle, or even just playing pretend, make room for those small, meaningful moments of connection. It doesn’t have to be fancy—just a chance for you to engage with your child and give them your undivided attention.

In Conclusion: Finding the Holiday Rhythm Together

The holidays are a time of joy, but they can also be overwhelming for kids (and adults!). By maintaining some key routines, managing expectations, and prioritizing connection, you can help your child stay in rhythm during this busy time of year. And remember, it’s okay if things don’t always go as planned—sometimes, the best moments are the ones that happen unexpectedly. With a little preparation and flexibility, you’ll be able to navigate the season together with a sense of peace and joy.

Looking for the perfect holiday gift to support your child’s development and well-being?

, where we’ve rounded up the best toy recommendations from our therapists to make your holiday shopping a little easier. 

Wishing you and your family a holiday season full of love and laughter! 

How to Help Your Child Stay in Rhythm During the Holidays: Tips from a Mental Health Therapist

This is the Ultimate Guide to help you find the best gift for your child that will help them grow and learn new skills while guaranteeing that they will have fun! These toys, books, and development tools are used in our clinics every day, so we know they are kid-approved. 

targets colors, counting, cause/ effect, turn-taking, hand-eye coordination, intentional grasp and release, visual and spatial perception, and tactile and visual exploration.

Targets color recognition, shape, size, comparison, bilateral coordination, counting, turn taking, pretend play, memory, stacking, visual focusing, 

Targets grasp and release, finger isolation and pointing, motor planning and control, hand eye coordination, color identification, counting, making choices, following directions (“press, pop, put in, roll”), 

This Toy targets bi-manual hand use or bilateral coordination, hand strengthening, visual perceptual skills, color identification, counting, sorting, cause/ effect, and turn-taking. It can be used on windows, refrigerators, and bathtubs in a variety of environments. 

Targets constructional praxis with building, imagination, counting, color identification, copying patterns, turn taking, problem solving, cause and effect play, sensory tool to help with concentration, attention and focus

 : These spoons are great to promote self-feeding skills. Their flat shape allows purees and other textures to stick easily, allowing your baby to practice holding the spoon and placing it in their mouth without losing food in the process. 

 : These spoons have a shallow spoon bowl, allowing your baby to easily clear foods from the spoon using their lips. They also include a guard to help prevent gagging by sticking the spoon too far back in their mouth. 

 : This cup is great for teaching straw drinking! This cup allows you to squeeze liquid through straw to help teach the concept of straw drinking. These supports can slowly be faded to only squeezing liquid halfway up the straw until your baby is sucking independently. The straw is also silicone, which can be cut down to make it shorter in addition to helping prevent mouth injuries. 

 : This silicone cup is great for transitioning from straw cup to open cup. It also has handles that can make it easier for your baby to hold independently. The silicone is also great to help prevent mouth injuries. Great price! 

 : This suction plate is perfect to encourage self-feeding without the mess. The dividers help your baby with scooping while also giving parents a visual reminder to serve 1 fruit/veggie, 1 carbohydrate, and 1 protein at each meal. These are also available to purchase with lids, which are great for leftovers! 

 : These bowls are nice because they have suction, come with lids for easy storage, and also have measuring lines so you can easily know how much your baby ate. 

 : These are great when transitioning from smooth purees to soft solids. You can place fresh, soft pieces of fruits or vegetables inside to teach your baby to chew, and it will come out of the small holes as purees into your baby's mouth. You can also place frozen fruits, vegetables, or even breastmilk inside to help ease teething pain. This comes with different size pouches and a freezer tray mold with spill-resistant cover.

 : These are similar to the silicone feeders, but offer a different texture. The mesh makes it easier to control the bite size and shape to ensure your baby is able to chew, rather than just suck. Mesh is more difficult to clean, however dishwasher safe!

 : This teether is designed by an SLP and perfectly shaped for your baby to hold onto and place in their mouth. This promotes jaw strengthening, munching, and tongue lateralization (side-to-side tongue movement needed to move food in the mouth). 

 : This oral motor tool, designed by an SLP, has 3 different branches to chew, each providing different sensory input and helping your baby to tolerate different textures. These are also frequently used to support jaw strengthening, jaw stability, chewing, and decreasing oral sensitivities. 

Toy recommendations from a Physical Therapist

The best gift you can get for your child is a book. Books are ALWAYS a great way to use language and teach new vocabulary while also fostering a connection with your child. So get all snuggled up with your little one and enjoy these speech therapist recommended books. 

Happy holidays from your friends at Marshall Pediatric Therapy! 

From Our Experts

Autism Awareness Month at Home: A Toolkit

Comprehensive Psychological Evaluations for Children: Your Questions Answered

How to Help Your Child Stay in Rhythm During the Holidays: Tips from a Mental Health Therapist

Therapist-Approved Christmas Gift Guide

Setting up & Navigating the Parent Portal