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Meet Chade` K.… provided her with an overwhelming sense of relief. With the help of her neurotypical husband, Oliver, and various other support systems she discovered through her work as an avid self-advocate, Chade` is thriving in all facets of her life: She … with autism and helps to build relationships between constituents and legislators at the federal level. This diverse group of advocates includes nearly 345 volunteers from 46 states and the District of Columbia . Learn more about Chade` in … awareness? To bring people on the spectrum out of shadows and make representatives of their state aware of the need to support autism. In my city, representatives were not aware of the need for the autism community. Through this program, we …
Transition to college and beyond: A personal story… to emphasize my strengths. It made me more confident to make really meaningful goals that I could achieve with the right supports. My goal was to go to college. The clear best way to do that was to get my GED since my education was not … who also taught a GED class. She led me to taking her class. I also had a communication assistant who attended with me and supported me for the next seven years. Anxiety was tough, but they reassured me. My teacher didn’t judge me on my sensory … me make very deliberate decisions that are well thought through, and I can talk about my feelings. I also attend a social group. Learning about making friends is important to me. The social group keeps people connected. My therapists have been …
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 …
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 Importance of Self-Advocacy in the Transition Process… to any fault of their own, but only because their brains work differently. It may be helpful for the individual to join a support or social skills group for those with similar abilities. You may be able to find groups in your area in the Autism Speaks Resource Guide. How Do We Teach Self-Advocacy Skills? Self-advocacy should be …
Meet Erin M.… I read about their experiences, and they gave me the words to recognize what I was going through. What services and supports have you received since being diagnosed? How have they help you? Occupational therapy – helped with creating sensory diet and troubleshooting issues like finding clothes too itchy or coming up with creative coping skills. Group therapy – we work on social skills and communicating with other people, as well as things like goal setting and …
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. …
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, …