When asked to write about my autism advocacy experience, many things came to mind. I have penned articles, been interviewed for podcasts, and presented at conferences. It seemed like I was making a difference—but I never knew for sure. Looking over everything I did to spread autism awareness and acceptance, I found one form of…
The holiday season can be a fun, but sometimes stressful, time for autistic people. On one hand, the season may include quality time spent with family and friends. However, it can also be a deviation from one’s routine which may include heightened sensory sensitivities and stimuli that can make the experience uncomfortable. In this interview,…
In 2001 my brother was participating in intensive early intervention. He was two, and I was 12. The therapy room in our basement was largely off limits for me; I would come home from school and our mom would come upstairs to greet me, unless he was having a meltdown, then she wasn’t permitted to…
For autistic children, who often crave routine and “sameness,” the frequent moves that characterize the lives of most military families can pose particular challenges. This resistance to change often leads to anxiety and disruptive behaviors. But if given ample time to anticipate, understand, and practice dealing with anticipated changes, most children can learn to successfully…
In late September, the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) announced that nearly 500,000 people, mostly children, who had lost Medicaid and Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) coverage due to procedural errors would be reinstated, according to The New York Times. On September 29, HHS released a letter sent to state health officials emphasizing…
OAR and the Autism Intervention Research Network on Physical Health (AIR-P) invite autistic individuals and the people who surround them to submit an application for the 2024 Community Grant Competition. Dedicated to funding community resources that enhance the quality of life of autistic individuals, the Community Grant Competition provides one-time grants ranging between $1,000 and…
As those of us who are family members and caregivers of autistic people begin planning our financial futures, the prospect of a lifelong commitment is daunting. We know we need to do something, but might not know just how to get started. Our family was no exception. When we started our journey by taking these…
Part C of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA, 2004) provides special education services to eligible infants and toddlers from birth until their third birthday. Part C services are mandated to take place within the natural environment, meaning interventions must take place in settings where an infant or toddler naturally spends their time such…
This original version of this article appeared on the Maryland Financial Advocates website. It is reposted here with permission from its author. What would happen if you suddenly became unable to provide your child with the necessary supports he or she needs? Without you, your child would become dependent on other caregivers who do not possess…
For most parents, the diagnosis of autism may be emotionally challenging. You may feel overwhelmed by your child’s diagnosis. It is natural and understandable that you feel this way. At the same time, it is important to know that through informed action and the use of appropriate treatments and interventions, you can enhance the quality…
