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Connecting through #Kindness | Sharing Positivity in a Virtual World… than ever, as we work through this uncertain time together, we know the autism community needs kindness, compassion and support. While hugs and high-fives may now be virtual, group get-togethers happen via video conference and volunteerism is done from behind a computer screen… there are still … kind messages of their own. Reach out: Friends and coworkers who are home with their kids with autism may need some extra support. Take this opportunity to reach out and see how you can help, whether it is sending groceries to their home, making …
Why you should make friends with other parents of autistic kids… my life- high school, college, work, and the ones I inherited from my husband who became my own. They are all wonderful and supportive people, and I do often talk to them about the challenges of raising my autistic son with high support needs. They get it to a degree, as much as anyone can who is not walking in my family’s shoes. I am fortunate to … I live on the Jersey shore, and we are so fortunate to have POAC Autism services in our backyard. They run parent support groups which are wonderful ways to meet other parents, and dozens of fun events for families which are also a mecca for …
Meet Martha… When Martha’s son, Josh, was growing up, Martha faced many challenges finding him the services and supports he needed to overcome his speech delay and behavioral challenges. Now, at age 21, Josh has grown into a bright, … graduation, he went off to a neurodiverse college for a year. That was incredibly stressful for him—they didn’t have the supports they purported to have for him. Then the pandemic happened, so he came home and did some online courses. Now, we’re … strengths and to support them to follow their dreams. Try to seek out support wherever you can, whether it’s in a support group, friends or family. Listen to your heart. If you feel like a situation isn’t working, don’t be afraid to change. The …
A guide to resources we offer from screening to adulthood… an autism diagnosis and in accessing related services. To help reduce this disparity, we are committed to providing support to our Hispanic community. Resources At autismspeaks.org you will find a tab,  ¿Que es el autismo?  which provides … their child’s autism diagnosis. Manual de Defensa  helps autistic individuals and their families advocate for services and supports they need. Manual de Planificación Financiera  provides parents tips on accessing financial support and planning … Tony’s experience  adulting on the spectrum. Social Media Voces Latinas de Autism Speaks is our Spanish speaking Facebook group to support parents and autistic individuals. Through this network, we share resources and experiences to build our …
The day my son taught a bully a lesson… day. I give in because he’s had a really good one, and make a mental note to call the person who runs his autism sibling support group the next day. She will report that things happened exactly as Zach told me and that he corrected the boy rather …
Why accepting my flaws was important as an autistic mom… buried it by just getting through it. This summer, I want to encourage all of you to start healing. Seek help through your support group. Friends, family, and any others you trust. Even if you are nonverbal, your "words" still matter.  I have a lot to say …
My son with autism is overcoming his challenges, finding his strengths… Sandy Petrovic is a registered nurse, an author, a public speaker, an instructional advisor/tutor in a college academic support center, and the mother of a son on the spectrum. Click here for more about us and the book we co-authored from each … even consciously considered; the social rejection David experienced when he wanted nothing more than to be part of the teen group; the years that he was bullied and lonely; the panic attacks and near-depression that he endured as a result of … relish these challenges and are confident that David will master them in his own time and in his own way, with the help and support of family and mentors—much as he has handled every other hurdle in the past—and just like every other young adult …
Catching up with Kaitlyn Y.… struggles to problem solve, take in her surroundings, and be fully independent, we have been fortunate enough to build a supportive community around her using the resources available through a variety of agencies. Today, Kaitlyn leads a … to adulthood, working alongside her mom at their do-it-yourself craft studio franchise that offers individual and group classes to create on-trend designs on customizable decor accessories.  Diagnosed with autism at age three, Kaitlyn received services and support that helped her take on more responsibilities as a young adult.  At 21, Kaitlyn shared that she was excited to …
The amazing day my son with autism first said 'I love you'… make him say it. I’ve had a lot of help over the last three years, most of it in the form of lucking out with an incredible group of individuals who’ve helped Brandon blossom into who he is today. With their support, no matter how tired or frustrated I’ve been or how hopeless it seemed at times, they pulled me through some dark …
Looking back at my son's diagnosis 12 years later… son or daughter needs you to be upright and breathing. Look  for parents who have been there, done that. Whether it’s a support group or a friend of a friend, look for support. Better yet, look to an individual with autism. Who better to educate you about autism? Find  your person. You will …