OAR welcomed six autistic students, including five rising seniors, from the Autism Initiative at Mercyhurst (AIM) to learn about OAR’s programs and resources in March. The AIM program, founded in 2008, supports autistic students and helps them thrive in five domains: academic, social, emotional, vocational, and independent living. AIM’s support includes: A yearly summer college…
Ten navigators and two regional ambassadors joined the Hire Autism team in April. By helping to refine resumes, cover letters, and interview skills, navigators play a vital role in equipping job seekers with the tools necessary to prepare them for the job search and meet their employment goals. Ambassadors use their personal experience and talents…
If you are working on or interested in creating a project that promotes autism awareness and acceptance in grades K-8 using the Kit for Kids program materials, then apply now for OAR’s Peer Education Grant. Grant awards range from $500 to $5,000. OAR has helped educate more than 184,000 children through the Peer Education program…
While Autism Acceptance Month has now come and gone, we know many of you wish to remain active, do more for the cause, or start something new. Here are some ways to do just that. Volunteer your time Are you a parent, educator, or autistic individual who: Wants to share your unique advice or story…
In a study published in 2023, more autistic college students reported below-average mental health (22.9%) than their non-autistic peers (14.3%), highlighting the critical importance of information for autistic college students about mental health and how to maintain good mental health. Created by a team led by Vanessa Bal, Ph.D., and Evan Kleiman, Ph.D., at Rutgers…
In November, OAR’s Board of Directors authorized funding for seven applied autism research studies in 2023. These new grants, totaling $276,212, bring OAR’s total research funding to more than $4.7 million since 2002. This article is the fifth of seven previews to be featured in The OARacle this year. Child sexual abuse is a persistent and…
Autistic teens with intellectual disability are at risk for mental health disorders, particularly anxiety. In fact, anxiety occurs at higher rates in autistic teens/adults with intellectual disability (53%) compared to non-autistic individuals with intellectual disability (17%). Assessing anxiety can be particularly challenging given teen communication and behavioral differences. Caregivers are often required to identify and…
In any relationship you have, there will be agreements and disagreements. That is normal. As you get to know an acquaintance, for example, you may disagree on the best pizza place in town. Or a friend may accidentally forget what time you were going to meet to play video games. Disagreements and mistakes happen in…
As a growing number of educators are discovering, gamification can have a profound impact on autistic learners. By leveraging the principles of game-based learning, teachers can create an engaging, dynamic environment for their students with learning disabilities. Through meaningful rewards, clear instruction and safe exploration, gamification not only helps to improve academic performance, but also…
