Most people have experienced heartburn, stomachaches, constipation or diarrhea at some point in their life. These gastrointestinal issues (GI) can be uncomfortable and inconvenient. Autistic people are more likely to have GI issues compared to non-autistic people. Research has shown that up to 91% of autistic people have GI issues. The reason they have more issues can be broken down into 3 categories: issues in the gut, issues in the brain, and diet.
Recently, you may have heard about a medicine being used to treat autism called leucovorin. Leucovorin is not a new medicine, and doctors have used it for decades. At the beginning of the year (2026) though, leucovorin got a lot of attention because some doctors were using it as an off-label treatment for autism. In March, it was approved by the FDA to treat a disease called “Cerebral Folate Deficiency.”
Looking for autism-friendly holiday fun this year? Our 2025 Christmas Events for Autistic People and Families roundup includes festive activities across Greater Georgia and the Atlanta metro area - from Sensory Santa visits to adaptive gaming, holiday parties, caroling, and more. We’ve also included virtual options for families who prefer to celebrate from home.
Every public school district has special education classrooms and supports for autistic students, but some children may not do well in a traditional school setting. In these cases, families may find that their child learns better in a school designed just for autistic and special needs students. These special education schools are located throughout the state each provide different programs, services, and learning experiences. While they are private schools, many offer help with costs through financial aid programs, scholarships, or payment plans so families from all income levels can take part.
Screens are now a big part of everyday life for kids in the United States. This is the result of changing habits in society and the fast growth of technology. The American Academy of Pediatrics suggests that children ages two to five should spend no more than one hour on screens during weekdays and no more than three hours on weekends. However, many studies show that most kids in the U.S. go well beyond this and spend “five to seven hours a day” on screens.
