Kochel Lab for Clinical Autism Research at BCM

12/26/2025

Looking for meaningful ways to celebrate Kwanzaa and carry its values into everyday life? This guide from the Autism Society of North Carolina highlights how the seven principles of Kwanzaa can support connection, identity, and intentional living for individuals and families of all abilities. It offers practical, accessible ideas for honoring culture, community, and shared values in ways that feel inclusive and empowering:

https://www.autismsociety-nc.org/wp-content/uploads/04_Integrating-Kwanzaa-Principles-for-Daily-Living.pdf

12/24/2025

Looking for sensory-friendly holiday activities to enjoy at home? 🎄✨ This blog from Applied Behavioral Learning Experiences (ABLE) shares simple, fun ideas to help kids with autism enjoy the season in a way that feels comfortable and joyful. From calming crafts to flexible traditions, these activities support regulation, inclusion, and meaningful family time. A great resource for making holiday moments merry and manageable for everyone!

🎁 Read the full blog here:

Children with autism deserve a Christmas that feels safe, joyful, and tailored to their needs. So here are 10 sensory friendly activities to ensure your kid has a good time during the holidays.

12/22/2025

JGATEways offers a collection of Hanukkah resources designed to support accessibility, inclusion, and joyful participation! From sensory-friendly ideas and visual supports to thoughtful adaptations of traditions, these resources help families celebrate in ways that honor each child’s unique needs while keeping the spirit of Hanukkah front and center.

Explore here:

Browse and download free Hanukkah resources for students with diverse learning needs, prepared by Gateways' experienced special education teachers. Read More

12/19/2025

The holidays and school breaks can be exciting—but also overwhelming—for autistic children and their families. This helpful blog from Autism Speaks shares practical, compassionate tips to help make time at home more enjoyable and less stressful for everyone. From maintaining routines and offering structure, to planning sensory-friendly activities and supporting flexibility, these strategies can help children feel more regulated, supported, and included during breaks. A great read for caregivers looking to balance rest, fun, and predictability this season!

Read more here:

Autism Response Team member Martha C. shares tips she uses to help her autistic son adjust to the change in schedule during his break from school.

12/17/2025

Looking for ways to foster inclusion and acceptance for individuals with Down syndrome? Check out this great resource from Texas Children’s Hospital by Jennifer S. Kazmerski, PhD, BCBA-D, DBSM! The article highlights the importance of representation in books and toys, including diverse dolls and stories that reflect real experiences, promote belonging, and help children feel seen and valued. It also offers ideas for supporting inclusion through play, media, community engagement, and shared reading. These simple steps can make a big difference in building empathy and understanding for all kids.

Read more here: https://www.texaschildrens.org/content/wellness/books-and-toys-that-build-acceptance-those-with-down-syndrome

12/15/2025

Twins Kira and Aliya share many things: a bright smile, a love of art, and a strong resemblance to each other. The 10-year-olds also share the same condition: severe autism.

👉🔗 Read the full story: https://bit.ly/3Kz3MRr

12/12/2025

The goal of this talk is to help our Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) families with concerns for potential autism spectrum disorder navigate the journey from the pediatrician's referral to an evaluation with a developmental-behavioral pediatrician (DBP). We will also discuss next steps in medical care and support following a diagnosis from the DBP.

Event Details:
📍 Location: Meyer Center for Developmental Pediatrics and Autism
🗓️ Date & Time: Saturday, January 31, 2026 | 11 am - 1 pm
🍽️ Lunch will be provided for attendees
🚗 Parking is free
🔗 RSVP Required: https://redcap.link/10cx5sw2

12/10/2025

With December already underway, we would like to wish everyone a wonderful holiday season filled with love, acceptance, and community.

Season's Greetings to you all! ❤

🎨Original artwork by: Alicia S., Autistic Adult in SPARK

12/08/2025

Check out December's IDD Learning Opportunities! All classes are FREE but registration is required: follow the instructions on the flyer or call 713-970-7375 to save your spot. 🧡

12/05/2025

Join us on Saturday, January 24, 2026, as Cara Ramos, OTR, MOT discusses practical strategies families can use to increase or reduce sensory inputs for their children with autism. Afterwards, Sadaf Ali, MA, CCC-SLP will lead a networking activity, allowing families to connect with each other.

Event Details:
📍 Location: Melcher Life Sciences
🗓️ Date & Time: Saturday, January 24, 2026 | 11 am - 1 pm
🍽️ Lunch will be provided for attendees
🚗 Parking is free
🔗 RSVP Required: https://redcap.link/n0j0v7uy

Child care will be provided for this event.

12/03/2025

December's Pal of the Month: Hallie

Hallie is a 10 year lab mix who loves to sunbathe in the Houston heat!

Do you have a pet "pal" who would like to be featured as a Research PAL of the month, or are you currently looking for a "pal"? Complete our form to submit information about your PAL to be featured: https://redcap.link/nuit9oos

12/01/2025

Many things changed for Braxton Webb in his 30s. He learned he has autism and began working with autistic children. Now he’s raising two sons, one with autism and one with ADHD. Follow his journey.

Read more here: https://bit.ly/4oRmTF2 👈✨