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Youth (12 to 18 years):

Seeking Identity. Facing New Challenges and Embracing the Future.

Adolescence, spanning from 12 to 18 years, represents a phase of unique metamorphosis and complexity in human development. Children transform into teenagers and then into young adults amidst significant hormonal, psychological, and social changes. Adolescence is particularly complex for young individuals within the autism spectrum, filled with major transformations and social demands. 

Puberty brings typical physical changes for all teenagers, but for autistic individuals, it can be overwhelming due to their sensitivity to hormonal and sensory stimuli. They need to be guided with great patience and care. 

Interpersonal relationships and peer pressure intensify during this time. Difficulties in managing social expectations and fitting in can impact self-esteem. Constant reinforcement of social skills is necessary. 

Schooling remains crucial, requiring support to tackle growing academic demands and achieve positive integration with peers. 

With adaptations, motivation, and collaboration between parents, therapists, and educators, autistic youths can discover unique talents and shape a life plan that enables a successful transition to adulthood. 

Explore this category to learn more about this stage, filled with discoveries, including first-hand experiences from young individuals within the autism spectrum.

ARTICLES

youth drawing young person listen music with headphones
Divershines

Entrepreneurship as an Autistic Person: Challenges and Opportunities

Over the years, despite advances in inclusion, it has become clear that the corporate world is not designed to accommodate the needs of people with autism. As a result, workplace dynamics can be challenging for individuals on the spectrum. However, entrepreneurship offers an alternative that is not only viable but also enriching. In this article, we explore why entrepreneurship can be an excellent option for autistic individuals, the benefits it offers, and we also recommend three books that can provide valuable tools along this journey.

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Divershines

Entrepreneurship from a Neurodiverse Perspective: Recommendations for Autistic Individuals

Entrepreneurship is always a path full of opportunities and challenges. While it can present barriers for autistic individuals, many of the skills and perspectives of people on the spectrum can support successful entrepreneurship. This article offers practical recommendations for starting a business, highlights steps toward entrepreneurial success, explores marketing strategies, and shows how to turn a restricted interest into a business purpose.

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Divershines

Echolalia in Autism: What it is and how to address it

Echolalia in autism is a characteristic that still generates concern and curiosity among parents and educators. This repetitive speech behavior is common in individuals on the autism spectrum (ASD) and plays a significant role in language development. In this post, we will explain what echolalia is, its connection to autism, and strategies for addressing it.

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Halloween autism
Sivan Hong

Halloween Tips for Autistic Kids By Sivan Hong

Halloween festivities, while fun for most, can be overwhelming and challenging for autistic children. As a mother of an autistic child, I’ve navigated many Halloweens, each with its own set of challenges and successes

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Divershines

Unique Gifts with a Purpose at NinthPlanetCrafts

NinthPlanetCrafts is a unique store that beautifully combines the worlds of science and art while celebrating neurodiversity. With 229 sales and an impressive 5-star rating, this shop has quickly become a favorite for buyers seeking meaningful and distinctive gifts.

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