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Parent Worries: Adult Son with Autism Still Obsessed with Barney… 24 and is on the autism spectrum, diagnosed with PDD-NOS as a child. He works part-time at Home Depot and attends a social-support group called Community Connections twice a week. While he continues to get more involved with the adult world at his job, he … Peter Gerhardt. Dr. Gerhardt, who serves on Autism Speaks’ Family Services Committee, has more than 30 years of experience supporting teens and adults with autism in educational, residential, vocational and community settings. Thanks for your …
Coding and autism: Learning the skills I need to start a tech career… I had a deep sense of home and hope and optimism, knowing that finally I have a place to put all my energy and a great of group of people who can direct me and be patient with me while I learn the skills I need in order to help myself in the … have teamed up to create the NXT GEN Coders Program. Powered by GameStop and administered by Autism Speaks, the grant will support programs to teach people with autism of all ages critical coding and computer programming skills.  … Coding and …
How to cope with disrupted personal routines during COVID-19 … please follow CDC guidelines . Also call your doctor’s office or emergency room before going for treatment. Continue support networks At this time, many mental health providers, case managers and specialists are still working but using … Call your providers to see how they can work with you during this time. Phone meetings may be harder, but prioritizing support right now can help you remember you are not alone. If you are part of an in-person support group, ask the leader if they can arrange a virtual meeting for those who want to join. Discover online or phone resources …
Karl Wittig, a retired electronics engineer, reflects on his late diagnosis and career journey… spectrum disorder. His diagnosis gave him a deeper understanding of his differences and allowed him to find a tight-knit support group of other autistic adults. In this Q&A, Karl talks about his journey to an autism diagnosis and his three secrets to … I had finally nailed it. After my diagnosis, I became very engaged in the autistic communities. I started going to support meetings, which I’ve been going to and facilitating ever since. I’m part of an organization now called Aspies for …
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 …
How Legoland Florida became more inclusive for guests with autism… on the autism spectrum. Available at Guest Services, the no-cost “Blue Hero Pass” allows the guest and his or her family or group to bypass the standby line at popular attractions. Specially equipped spaces in our Annual Pass, First Aid and Baby … and grow how we approach guests with autism spectrum disorders.” Meanwhile, during World Autism Month, we’re showing our support for the many guests with autism spectrum disorders who visit us from around the world: Like we did last year, we’re … $15 of the proceeds from each ticket sold to the North and Central Florida chapter of Autism Speaks. Autism Speaks supporters can purchase theme park tickets at a discounted rate of $45 plus tax, a $48 savings. This offer is only available …
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 …