Sexuality and relationship education includes a wide range of information: changing bodies, dating, kissing, gender identity, being turned down for a date, healthy relationships, and more. We know that teaching kids about sexuality and relationships is the best way to keep them healthy and safe. Despite this knowledge, we are not given a lot of…
Join OAR and a series of expert presenters to learn evidence-based strategies to help nurture a positive school culture and teach practical skills that lead to greater independence. Together, let’s help autistic students unlock a greater sense of happiness, independence, and sense of belonging. If you are a teacher, parent, or autistic individual, do not…
“Mom, I’m autistic.” It was 1992. My eight-year-old first-born child, assigned female at birth, was holding a magazine article about an autistic girl. As a special education teacher, I knew a little about autism, but only a little. What was I supposed to say? I might have asked, “Why do you think you’re autistic?” and…
In January, the American Library Association (ALA) announced the winners of the Schneider Family Book Awards, as well as the titles selected as honor books. The Awards recognize an author or illustrator for the artistic expression of the disability experience for child and adolescent audiences. In two of the three categories, the award-winning books feature…
Approximately 1 in 36 children have autism spectrum disorder (ASD), and autism affects families of every race and socioeconomic group. Parenting an autistic child is challenging, but it’s important to remember that their siblings need help as well. Siblings are just learning to operate in the world themselves and may not have the maturity or…
The transition from school to adulthood is a pivotal time in the lives of all students. For an autistic student, change of any kind can be challenging, and a transition as momentous as this can seem especially daunting. As a parent of an autistic young adult, you have already accomplished a lot, from coping with…
Arlington, VA, February 9, 2024 – The Organization for Autism Research (OAR) is publishing the Spanish translation of Life Journey Through Autism: A Guide for Military Families. The guide aims to support Spanish-speaking military families of autistic children. It is currently available online as a downloadable PDF, and will soon be released in paperback. When…
A study published in December in Disability and Health Journal found that people with cognitive disabilities, such as autism as well as other intellectual and developmental disabilities, reported significant difficulties in receiving high-quality health care. Adults with autism showed no differences when compared with adults with other cognitive disabilities. In addition to its findings, this…
As we celebrate the beginning of a new year, OAR is also looking ahead to the ambitious goals it has set for 2024, including goals for Autism Acceptance Month. Join us to promote autism awareness and acceptance in your community and across the country. Goal 1: Support the autism community with information (autistics, families, educators,…
OAR is thrilled to kick off our fourth annual Youth Art Contest. This year’s theme is growth, encouraging young artists to explore and express their perspectives on personal and community growth. How to Participate Participation is open to any autistic child or their siblings, classmates, or friends who are inspired to create. Here’s how to…
