Resources for an Inclusive Environment in Education
For many teachers, tenured or new, navigating the world of an inclusive environment can be a confusing experience. However, inclusivity can be a unique opportunity — it can be an enlightening endeavor that brings educators and students closer in favor of education. Teaching children acceptance and awareness about their autistic peers has never been easier…
Roles and the Reilly Family
We Reillys are a typical family making our way through the 21st century. My wife, Linda, and I met in college and married in 2000. We have two children, Charlotte and Alexander. Charlotte is nearing the end of high school, and Alexander is anticipating the conclusion of his freshman year. We also have two furry…
The Role of Social Connections in Reducing Suicide Risk
In November, OAR’s Board of Directors authorized funding for five applied autism research studies in 2022. These new grants, totaling $196,272, bring OAR’s total research funding to more than $4.4 million since 2002. This article is the third of five previews to be featured in The OARacle this year. Autistic people are significantly more likely…
Making The World A Better Place For Autistic Students
“The worst thing you can do is nothing. ” ― Temple Grandin Have you ever taken a subway at rush hour in a new city? Herds of people bump into you and loud noises are everywhere. Signs with information you need flash so quickly that they are indiscernible to you. It is overwhelming, and you…
Autism Representation in Books
In my last post, I talked about why authentic representations of autism are so important for both autistic and non-autistic readers. I also shared some great books by autistic authors that I hope you add to your collection. We should all try to amplify more autistic voices! But perhaps you, as a reader, would also…
Participatory Research With Autistic Adults
How to Explain Autism to Your Autistic Children: An Autistic Parent’s Perspective
Since receiving my son’s diagnosis, I have dreaded the moment when I must explain what it means to be autistic. Some have said I am fortunate because I have an intimate understanding of autism—having received my own diagnosis. While it was not presented to me softly, I plan to give my children a gentler introduction…
CDC Revises Developmental Milestones
The CDC recently revamped its developmental milestones checklists for the first time since they were created in 2004. The clearer benchmarks make it easier for parents and medical professionals to identify developmental delays, including those that may indicate autism. Part of the “Learn The Signs. Act Early.” program, the revisions are intended to ensure that…
Making Participatory Research Easier
With a new initiative recently introduced by the International Society on Autism Research (INSAR), autistic people and their family members can partner with autism researchers to assist with designing, conducting, and disseminating research studies. The goal is to facilitate working relationships between researchers and those who could benefit from the research being conducted. The INSAR…
