There is a popular saying in the Autism community, “If you know one person with autism, then you know one person with autism.” No two people with ASD are alike, and what works for our children and me may not work for yours. Some children seek sensory input, while others avoid it. For example, the Rainforest Cafe…
I am an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse with nearly 20 years of experience, and I believe in evidence-based medicine. As an autistic mother to two autistic children, let’s see what science says about the gluten-free (GF) diet for autism. Does the Gluten-Free diet help kids with Autism? Yes, the gluten-free casein-free (GFCF) diet has been…
Dining at Walt Disney World while managing a gluten-free diet, especially with Celiac disease, can be extremely stressful. As an advanced practice nurse and an autistic parent, the magic is in the safety protocols. Disney is the gold standard for allergy-conscious dining in the U.S. This guide breaks down exactly how to navigate that process,…
The Decadent Local Favorite: Roast Beef on Kummelweck Rolls Beef on weck reminds me of my childhood. My great-grandparents owned a butcher shop in Dunkirk, New York, and were fabulous in the kitchen. Thanks to their familiarity with meat, my Busia and her sisters could make a mean roast beef. We visited a family cottage…
Whether you’re a Cleveland local or just visiting, ShintoJapanese Steakhouse in Strongsville offers a rare trifecta for families: interactive hibachi, an exhaustive sushi menu, and a dedicated gluten-free protocol. It is one of the most reliable spots in the area for a high-energy, allergy-safe dining adventure. 2026 Pro-Tip: If you’re looking for the best value,…
The Kimpton Cardinal Hotel in Winston-Salem is a boutique mid-century modern hotel in downtown Winston-Salem that is pet-friendly. The hotel room is a little small for families, but there is so much to do nearby that you may not spend any time in the room at all. And if your family is competitive, this hotel’s…
Visiting Niagara Falls, NY, with a sensory-sensitive child? The Rainforest Cafe is a popular stop, but it’s intense. We’ve visited five times to help you decide if it’s worth the sensory input. If you’re planning a full Niagara trip, check out our [Sensory-Friendly Niagara Falls Guide] for a complete breakdown of quieter, more regulated spots….
Gluten-free at Great Wolf Lodge, Ohio We were ravenous after a long day at the indoor waterpark at Great Wolf Lodge in Sandusky, but looking for convenience. The Lodge features several restaurants within its lobby. We chose to have a sit-down dinner at Gitchiegoomie Grill and hoped they’d support our gluten-free needs. Please read about…