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Peter B., an autistic college student, shares strategies that have helped him live independently… figured it out when I moved into the dorm at 19 because I was forced to do it regularly. When I was younger, I needed support to do different tasks, but I've since built up structures in my life that allow me to do them independently. For … on me, but the instruction was largely focused on theoretical content with no actual practice opportunities outside of that group. In retrospect, I think I might have gotten better results in another environment. If you had to share one lesson with … Roadmap to Postsecondary Education Read a clinician’s tips for teaching self-care skills to autistic youth with high support needs … Peter B., an autistic college student, shares strategies that have helped him live independently …

For Josh E., a big move opened the door to happiness and self-discovery… teaching assistant in his home of Pensacola Beach, Florida. His new life has opened the doors to a rewarding career, solid support system and fulfilling environment where he can be himself. But his road to success wasn’t always smooth sailing. In … are some things you do for self-care? One thing I learned at my job is that coloring is very therapeutic for me. One of the group activities I do with the children in my class is drawing sessions, and to participate, I print off a few pages to … in Kansas. But I also didn’t have the same mindset then—I didn’t have that passion to push me forward and explore. Social support is also important. I have my parents, I have friends in Kansas and I have a great deal of mentors for encouragement. …

Catching up with Taniya H. … nature of the game on the court, but off the court she was adjusting to life in a new city with new coaches and a new group of teammates.   Today, as one of the senior leaders on the team, Taniya’s tenacious work ethic and passion for the … who she is and what she is capable of in this Q&A.  How important has it been to your personal growth to have found a supportive environment at the University at Albany and a head coach that understands autism and has the connection of her … and can accomplish your goals if you work hard. You can overcome obstacles and be whatever you want to be with the right support system and work ethic.   I take pride in being a representative for the autism community. I feel like as a D-1 …

Spanish resources help bilingual families in the autism community overcome language barriers … appointment, Berlina Felipe did her research. She had a year during that wait, reading about what to expect and how to plan supports for her son, Alex. “When he did get diagnosed at age 4, even though I was already prepared, it was still hard,” … Both of Jair’s grandmothers, who took care of him when he was young, attended the Spanish classes as well to learn how to support him. “Years later, my mom told us she is so glad that we got all the early intervention,” Gaby said. “And that we … their classes and resources in Spanish. Based on participant feedback, they also sometimes separate dads and moms into two groups to encourage each group to talk more openly. Alex’s family made sure to learn from his providers and school contacts …

Tips for autistic job seekers to find the right job… walking distance, or a ride share. Speak with a Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) counselor in your local area about the supports they can provide you. VR services are designed to help those with disabilities to achieve an employment outcome … , Indeed , ZipRecruiter and others. Join our LinkedIn Autism Employment Network here  and our Employment WINS Facebook group here . Create or Update your resume . Make sure you include your name, address, telephone number, and e-mail address. … polite and bring a pen and a copy of your resume with you. Practice your interviewing skills in advance. Have a friend or support person help you. Try to make this as realistic as possible. Practice introducing yourself, shaking hands, …

Home and Community Based Services (HCBS) Waivers… states to accomplish certain goals, such as reducing costs, expanding coverage, or improving care for certain target groups. Through these waivers, states can provide services that wouldn’t usually be covered by Medicaid. For instance, … states, there are substantial waiting lists to receive those waiver services. Medicaid HCBS fund the majority of lifelong supports that people with autism and their families rely on throughout their life spans to live, remain safe and participate … services individuals need to live in the community. This may include case management, transportation, home care or direct support, respite, adult day services, employment supports, assistive technology, respite, and therapies (speech, …

Cheryl Chafos honors her late son, Zachary, by advocating for autism training among healthcare professionals… His younger brothers were now so scared they often locked themselves in the bathroom. Cheryl and Tim were looking into group homes but none would take him while he exhibited aggressive behavior. But they couldn’t handle him on their own … away.  For 19 years Cheryl spent countless hours advocating on Zach’s behalf with school staffs, doctors, therapists, support agencies and others-as well as driving to therapies, consultations and events. She had spent the last 59 days up … is needed to better recognize and address mental health issues in those like Zach with challenging behaviors and high support needs. Research and clinical programs supported by Autism CARES Act could help develop more personalized treatment …

Reflecting on my nonspeaking autistic son's 40th birthday… home. I smile when you take selfies with me because you seem to like that. I continue to need your help, understanding, and support in many ways. Fourth.   Let go of your anger. You’ve written about how the loss of the perfect son you dreamed of … to speak, read, or write. Thanks to your love and advocacy on my behalf, I live the safest life possible for me in a group home where I can live with support out in the world.  I love our car rides and walks in the park when you visit. These days, when you come to visit, I …

Questions and answers about ABA … reinforcement to teach her son how to get to work on a public bus is using ABA principles.  Without as much in-clinic support, parents, family members and caregivers often play a more active role in ABA-based learning for this age group. The key is for the person to get rewarded for their efforts with positive reinforcement, either from a … visual and physical prompts as needed.  Break down tasks into small steps. Use picture prompts or other communication supports if needed to show each step.  Spend time working with the person on their goals every day. Practice the same …