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Meet Barry and David B.… David move into his own home about 15 miles from our family home when he turned 37. I never wanted David to live in a group home, but I knew he would always need to be cared for 24/7. With that said, I took it upon myself to develop a system … time perfecting the care system that would provide David with a regimented routine of basic life skills and a stable daily support system he would need to one day live on his own. “Finding the right people to care for David and implement this … for him similarly to the way his family would care for him. It’s also a testament to David’s personality.” Today, Barry supports the life-enhancing research work of Autism Speaks with hopes of improving the lives of people severely impacted by …
Meet Chase T.… information about autism was difficult, but Helen and Alan made it their job to advocate for their son and to get him the support he needed. They quickly enrolled Chase in his pre-school’s autism-centric special education program, where he would … to participate in enjoyable activities like therapeutic horseback riding, gymnastics and art class. With a team of supporters like his family, teachers and behavioral therapists, Chase has come a long way since being diagnosed as a … has your autism helped you excel? I have faced struggles like talking to other people in conversations, being part of a group and focusing on work. My autism helped me excel by making me very imaginative and creative. Why is it important to …
Autism Speaks awards over $550,000 for autism research… more effective, personalized care in the years ahead,” said Autism Speaks Chief Science Officer Andy Shih. “We are proud to support a promising group of young scientists who are propelling the field of autism research forward in new directions.” Grant applications …
Family Advisors: The power and importance of connection… MPA. For many families who care for a loved one with autism spectrum disorder, access to knowledge and resources to support autism is critical. The right supports can enhance a life that is meaningful and productive. For me and my colleague, Liza Krassner, we understand how … of the Autism Speaks Autism Treatment Network /Autism Intervention Research Network on Physical Health (ATN/AIR-P). This group of 12 sites across the U.S. and Canada represent a wide array of autism services, research and clinical programs, …
Advocacy Perspective: During Black History Month, A Call To Action To Advance Health Equity … adverse health challenges. Autism Speaks was a frequent flyer in my office on the Hill. I often met with a very diverse group of AS ambassadors. They not only advocated for the autistic community but for health equity generally. I saw as they … services. These data indicate that too many Black autistic children are going undiagnosed - without the services and support they need and deserve. Our approach to change this is through community-based services that empower those who are … with autism and developmental disabilities or delays how to use their everyday routines and home activities to best support their children’s communication and behavioral health needs. Our Public Health Team’s work – which has impacted lives …
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 …
Meet Tyler H. … does he live on campus in a dorm suite with two other students, he’s thriving in all of his classes thanks to the extra support he receives as a member of the SUCCEED Program, a post-secondary program for students with intellectual and … Tyler’s parents credit their son’s amazing strides into adulthood to crucial early intervention services, a caring and supportive group of family members and kindhearted friends who always stood by his side and his strong will to make the most of his …
Meet Elfy A. … about the newest trends in the world of technology, riding horses and even traveling, this 8 th grader has a rock-solid support system and big dreams! “He is an adventurous teenager and is always so happy. He understands English and Spanish … meet our advocacy goals by sharing their personal experiences and information on policies related to autism. This diverse group of advocates includes over 400 volunteers from 49 states and the District of Columbia and include people with autism, …
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. …
Meet Kaitlyn Y.… hops in the car with her mom, Julie, to head to their do-it-yourself craft studio franchise that offers individual and group classes to create the latest on-trend designs on customizable decor accessories. Diagnosed with autism at age three, … in the world right now, where would you go? Why? Chicago, to see my aunt and uncle and their dogs. Who are your biggest supporters & how have they touched your life? My sister, Alyson. Ann Deddens (my tutor). Jesse (my job coach). Mike Darling … of advice you can give other parents who have a child/children on the spectrum? Build a village of people that will help support you and your child. We have been so fortunate to have amazing professionals guide us through this journey. We have …