In October, OAR’s Board of Directors authorized funding for six new applied autism research studies in 2018. These new grants, totaling $176,090, bring OAR’s total research funding to over $3.6 million since 2002. This is the sixth of six previews to be featured in The OARacle this year. In South Africa, more than 7,500 children…
This article is a modified version of an article that was originally published in the May 2006 issue of The OARacle. Summer is the time of year when we kick back, take time to relax (or at least slow down), and enjoy outdoor activities. As I reflect back on my summers as a child, one…
Change is scary. To embrace the unknown goes against every fiber of our animalistic instincts. As humans, we tend to fear change because we find comfort in our expectations and certainty of routine. For individuals on the spectrum, this fear is intensified. The well-being of those living with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) depends on knowing…
For children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), popular vacation destinations such as theme parks can be overwhelming and frightening. With summer fast approaching, parents who are looking for a destination that suits everyone in the family may find the perfect spot at the nation’s first autism-friendly theme park. Sesame Workshop, the nonprofit entity behind Sesame…
James Taniguchi is a 2016 OAR Scholarship recipient. This is the second post in his series for OAR’s blog. As I mentioned in my previous post, this blog will focus on my college experience so far and the social strategies I’m using to overcome my challenges with verbal communication. This post is intended to help students…
Self advocate Sue Abramowski explains how many people with ASD feel about their interests and passions, and how these passions are unique and something to be proud of. This was originally posted on The Mighty. If you’re familiar with autism, I’m sure you’ve heard of the term “special interests.” Everyone has something they have a…
James Taniguchi is a 2016 OAR Scholarship recipient. This is the first post in his series for OAR’s blog. Many of my interpersonal relationships have ended abruptly or in disappointment. Sometimes these experiences make me think there is an “invisible barrier” that constantly surrounds me. Prior to attending college, I had expected to overcome my difficulties…
Self advocate Jackie Parslow shares her experiences about being in a romantic relationship with someone who is also on the autism spectrum. This was originally posted on The Mighty. My fiance Peter and I are both autistic. While we love each other dearly, there are still obstacles with communication and other differences. As Dr. Stephen…
Self advocate Jordan Aukema shines some light on the often times overwhelming experience of sensory overload and strategies on how to cope by detailing his own encounters with this challenging phenomenon. This was originally published on The Mighty. When you hear “sensory overload,” what do you think? Most would think a loud room with lights and things rubbing against…
OAR is accepting applications for the 2018 OAR Scholarship Program through Monday, May 7 at 11:59 p.m. ET. Applicants can apply to either the Schwallie Family Scholarship or the Lisa Higgins Hussman Scholarship. Each offers one-time $3,000 scholarships to students diagnosed with autism spectrum disorders (DSM-IV or 5 criteria) pursuing full-time post-secondary, undergraduate education in the United…
