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Autism in Africa: Transforming care and services for a brighter future… spectrum disorder (ASD) and other developmental disabilities face stigmatization, delayed diagnosis and limited access to support services. In many countries, challenges in service delivery are compounded by humanitarian concerns like armed … meeting of the minds focused on advances in global science, practice and policy. As I sat among this distinguished group ahead of International Day of Persons with Disabilities, I was proud to represent Autism Speaks alongside my … and UNICEF to launch the Global Report on Children with Developmental Disabilities . Developed with technical and financial support from Autism Speaks, this report is a roadmap for advocates and policymakers in underserved countries around the …
Identical twins with autism differ significantly in severity of social traits… by our environment. It also confirms what we know about the importance of getting intervention as early as possible to support development,” said Autism Speaks Chief Science Officer Thomas W. Frazier. “Repeating this study with larger groups may help us understand those environmental factors where we might be able to best support optimal development for young children at risk for autism.” Using genetic data and clinical information, researchers …
Social Skills and Autism… by the idea of new experiences. Building up social skills with practice can help enhance participation in the community and support outcomes like happiness and friendships. We have compiled social skills tips and information from experts, teachers, … school, and in the community. A special education teacher, speech pathologist, or other clinician may lead a “social skills group” that combines direct, explicit instruction with opportunities to practice and generalize these skills in more natural …
Idaho becomes the 47th state to require autism insurance coverage!… families with children who have autism, health advocates, and state officials to celebrate increased acceptance and support for individuals with autism. The ceremony began with Lt. Governor Brad Little's proclamation signing in recognition … for individuals with autism. The bulletin issued by the Idaho Department of Insurance requires all individual, small group and large group insurance plans to cover evidence-based treatment for autism, including Applied Behavior Analysis. In Cameron’s …
Why a mother-daughter running duo teamed up for Autism Speaks… Christel, Iowa Wesleyan ’88, decided to check out different race options online. She saw that through Disney you can run in support of various charities, including Autism Speaks. Christel and her daughter Samantha, Iowa Wesleyan ’14, decided to … signed up for the races six months in advance and began training 16 weeks before the race. “Everyone has so many different groups and causes to support, so it was hard for me to ask people to give to another cause. Putting myself out there on social media and asking …
Autism Speaks recognizes Oklahoma Commissioner Mulready for work on autism insurance coverage… Department Commissioner Glen Mulready with an Autism Speaks 2022 Public Service Award for championing initiatives that support coverage of autism therapies and treatment for people with autism in Oklahoma. From his work as an insurance … the state law's diagnosis age restrictions as discriminatory. And with the passage of SB 1240 , state-regulated small group and individual plans will be required to provide meaningful autism insurance coverage beginning in 2023. “Oklahoma's … and a long-time volunteer advocate for the Oklahoma autism community also had the opportunity to thank Mulready for his support. Individuals in Oklahoma interested in shopping for an insurance plan that provides insurance benefits for …
Finding Information on Autism-Related Genes … 15q duplication syndrome, copy number variation Pheland-McDermid syndrome and DiGeorge syndrome . A number of advocacy groups and organizations provide information, parent and child support, research funds and services for those affected by these specific genetic disorders. (See list below.) … aware of an organization that specifically addresses Xp22.31 deletions. There are, however, a few Yahoo and Facebook parent support groups for Xp22.31 deletions. The National Society for Genetic Counselors provides a platform for finding genetic …
Respite Care… services can be available to families through provider agencies with trained staff or through a more informal network of support.  Find more helpful information about respite models as well as a respite locator from the National Respite Network … to families. The RAISE Family Caregivers Act , signed into law in January 2018, will create a national strategy for supporting caregivers. Respite options for family caregivers will be one piece of the considered strategy and solution. How … role in managing the specific behaviors of the individual with autism. How will the respite worker support the person in a group setting? You may want a worker to accompany your family member to a social group, or an afterschool program. The …
Things to Look For in Your Child's Team… quite complex, so it is helpful to take a broad approach when evaluating concerns, and deciding how to provide appropriate support. In order to meet their various needs, many people with autism, especially those with challenging behaviors, need a … have you worked collaboratively in the past? “I have to say, we were lucky enough from the beginning to have assembled a group of fine people who had the very best intentions of helping my son Eli. But a few months into his preschool year, after … the provider’s experience by asking at his office, or by connecting with school or agency staff, other parents, or local support groups for suggestions and recommendations. What is your experience in working with individuals with autism? This …
Autism Speaks opens applications for Local Impact Grants… enhancing their lives today and accelerating a spectrum of solutions for tomorrow. Autism Speaks’ Local Impact Grants support a variety of programs, including: Education and training programs for autistic individuals Recreation, athletic and … services, including vocational training, life skills, residential services and others Assistance for sensory equipment and supportive technology Summer camp scholarships for financially disadvantaged people with autism Since 2013, Autism Speaks … therapists and peers. Timeline:   April 15:  Application opens   May 16:  Application closes   May 23 – June 17:  A group of independent evaluators from across the country reviews and scores applications  June 27 – July 8:  Review …