In order to be an active participant in the transition planning process, your autistic teen needs to develop self-determination skills – the skills that enable individuals to speak up for what they want, what they’re interested in, and how they would like to accomplish it. Self-determination skills also allow individuals to have a strong understanding…
One summer vacation on Cape Cod, Mass., I made a mistake – although no one got hurt. My autistic son Ian and I were dressed in our swimsuits when we arrived at Race Point Beach to watch the sunset, a favorite vacation ritual. But nothing prepared us for the waters off Race Point that evening.…
The Lancet Commission on the future of care and clinical research in autism proposed and described a new model of care and treatment for autism in a report released at the beginning of December, calling for global coordination among governments, health care providers, educational programs, financial institutions, and social sectors to reform research, care, and…
For students in special education, “transition” refers to the time when a young adult leaves the K-12 education system and embarks upon adult life. Transition is a period marked by great potential – and significant uncertainty. It is crucial for autistic, young adults and their families to approach the transition process empowered by thoughtful planning.…
As both an adult on the autism spectrum and an advocate for disability rights, my main goal has been to live “a life like theirs [those without disabilities].” In other words, I think everyone regardless of disability status should be entitled to independent living, especially when it comes to housing and employment. Throughout my life,…
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 first of five previews to be featured in The OARacle this year. Many young people on the autism…
Maya Angelou, an African-American civil rights activist, poet, and memoirist, wrote, “I learned a long time ago the wisest thing I can do is be on my own side, be an advocate for myself and others like me.” That short sentence captures what is so important about self-advocacy. When we can speak up for our…
While many civilian families move to new cities, states, or countries, moving is a fact of life for military families. Moving can be a difficult transition for anyone, but it’s especially challenging for autistic children, as it entails significant and sudden environmental changes. Whether you’re a military family PCSing or a civilian family moving for…
I still remember the day before my son’s first Individualized Education Program (IEP) meeting. I was so nervous that I wrote down everything I wanted to say about my child in a notebook. Thankfully, the IEP team was enormously supportive, and he was placed in a well-fitted classroom, where he learned and played a lot.…
As many as 18.5% of children in the United States are obese. Evidence suggests the percentage may be even higher among autistic children due to factors including unusual dietary preferences, decreased exercise, and use of medication that is associated with weight gain, among others. The guidelines and support that exist for preventing and treating obesity…
