# 'Agricultural specialisterne': rural employment revolution for those with Autism **URL:** \ **Category:** Lounge\ **Created:** [June 5, 2011, 5:40am UTC](https://pheromonetalk.com/t/agricultural-specialisterne-rural-employment-revolution-for-those-with-autism/50615 "2011-06-05T05:40:07Z")\ **Posts on this page:** 20\ **Page:** 33
**Author:** ![Visionary7903](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/v/45deac/32.png) [@Visionary7903](https://pheromonetalk.com/u/Visionary7903)\ **Post date:** [May 22, 2016, 5:01am UTC](https://pheromonetalk.com/t/agricultural-specialisterne-rural-employment-revolution-for-those-with-autism/50615/641 "2016-05-22T05:01:21Z")
The subject of recent posts has mainly been on Autism-related events and organisations in the state of Indiana. The ‘Prism Project’ is a theater group that meets once a week on Saturday’s, which aims to teach social skills to children on the Autism Spectrum using music, theatre, and dance. The program is a formal partnership between the _School of Music_ and the _Department of Theatre and Dance_ at _Ball State University_ (_BSU_) and the Muncie, Indiana-based non-profit, _Interlock,_ whose mission is to assist and educate families in East Central Indiana living with Autism Spectrum Disorders… > [@](#): > > Ryan Hourigan, director of the [BSU] School of Music, is on a mission… > > …Hourigan has devoted himself to helping children with special needs participate in the performing arts and reap the benefits that can result, and to sharing his expertise and research with parents and educators. > > At BSU, Hourigan co-founded a performing arts program for special-needs children and a training ground for Ball State students interested in working with them… > > …In 2009, Hourigan, his wife Amy, a BSU instructor of music education, and Michael Daehn, BSU associate professor of theatre education and directing, founded The Prism Project through an immersive learning grant. > > The project provides children with special needs opportunities to learn appropriate social skills through performing arts and direct engagement with their peers. > > “It’s theatre, music, and dance for children with special needs, with around 80 percent having autism,” said Hourigan. > > “It’s really a two-pronged project: an art program for kids with disabilities, and a training ground to teach the student teachers how to work with kids with disabilities.” > > Prism Project student teachers, called ‘buddies’ in the project’s lingo, receive immersive learning even though they usually have little to no experience teaching special-needs children. > > The project equips teachers with valuable tools before they enter the profession. > > They learn to apply motivational and instructional strategies, which improves their ability and willingness to teach, work, and empathize with children with disabilities. > > Children with disabilities, especially autism, can have difficulty making lasting social connections. > > “What I think is really cool is to watch the children starting to learn how to interact socially and create their own social groups,” said Hourigan. > > “They hang out with each other, go bowling. They learn how to do things, how to be on a team, and how to work together toward a goal.”… Here is a link to a video on the ‘Prism Project’: [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w4nZ4GN4iZU](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w4nZ4GN4iZU) (source: [https://issuu.com/umichsmtd/docs/musespring15-flipbook](https://issuu.com/umichsmtd/docs/musespring15-flipbook)) ---
**Author:** ![Visionary7903](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/v/45deac/32.png) [@Visionary7903](https://pheromonetalk.com/u/Visionary7903)\ **Post date:** [May 23, 2016, 6:05am UTC](https://pheromonetalk.com/t/agricultural-specialisterne-rural-employment-revolution-for-those-with-autism/50615/642 "2016-05-23T06:05:23Z")
The subject of recent posts has mainly been on Autism-related events and organisations in the state of Indiana. _Autism Evansville_ is an Evansville, Indiana-based nonprofit whose mission is to forever improve young Autistic lives through partnerships for support, treatments and care. The nonprofit, which was until recently known as _Inspiring Autism Spectrum Families_ (_IASF_), serves a number of counties in both Indiana and Kentucky – in Indiana, Posey, Gibson, Vanderburgh, Warrick, Spencer, Pike and in Kentucky, Henderson and Daviess… > [@](#): > > Evansville native Cory Kuhlenschmidt spends a lot of his time trying to make the city he loves even better… > > …One group, Inspiring Autism Spectrum Families, holds a very special significance for him. > > Kuhlenschmidt has two daughters, Audrey, 7, and Anna, 6. Kuhlenschmidt and his wife noticed from an early age that Anna wasn’t developing as quickly as her older sister. When she was 2 [and-a-half], Anna was diagnosed with autism. > > Autistic children often find social situations difficult. Kuhlenschmidt and his wife struggled to socialise Anna… > > Kuhlenschmidt, who serves on the board for IASF, became involved with the group about three years ago through family fun nights, events where parents and their children can get together, play games and socialize. > > The organisation’s parent support groups also provide a great outlet for those with children affected by autism. > > “You get to be around other people who understand what you’re going through,” he said. “It’s a good place to ask questions and get new ideas.” > > The organization places a strong emphasis on outreach and awareness. IASF is also working on a voucher program that would help parents pay for treatment, transportation and other services for their children. > > “We just want people to know there’s an organization out there that wants to help,” he said… Here is a link to photos of _Autism Evansville_’s ‘Walk for Autism’ at the _Vanderburgh County 4-H Center_ in Evansville, Indiana from a couple of years ago: [https://www.facebook.com/iasf4u/photos/?tab=album&album\_id=806235142729108](https://www.facebook.com/iasf4u/photos/?tab=album&album_id=806235142729108) (source: [20 Under 40: Cory Kuhlenschmidt](http://www.courierpress.com/business/local/20-under-40-cory-kuhlenschmidt-ep-583880872-324645161.html)) ---
**Author:** ![Visionary7903](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/v/45deac/32.png) [@Visionary7903](https://pheromonetalk.com/u/Visionary7903)\ **Post date:** [May 24, 2016, 5:21am UTC](https://pheromonetalk.com/t/agricultural-specialisterne-rural-employment-revolution-for-those-with-autism/50615/643 "2016-05-24T05:21:26Z")
The subject of the last couple of posts has been on Autism-related organisations and events in the state of Indiana. _SPEAK MODalities_, based in Lafayette, Indiana, is dedicated to providing the best evidence backed software solutions for developing language skills in children with autism and delays in speech development. SPEAK MODalities’ flagship product SPEAKall! is the result of collaboration at _Purdue University_ between Professor Oliver Wendt’s research group and the _Purdue Engineering Projects in Community Service_ (_EPICS_) program… > [@](#): > > An app developed at Purdue University is making a difference in the lives of local children affected by severe, non-verbal autism. The app, called SPEAKall!, teaches kids affected by the disorder how to form words and sentences. > Some children with severe autism may go years without saying consecutive words, but SPEAKall! aims to change that, using pictures of what kids already know, such as their favorite foods or toys, to teach them how to speak. > “What you need to know about children with autism is that they are very visual learners,” said Oliver Wendt, chief science officer of SPEAKMODalities and Purdue assistant professor of speech, language and hearing sciences. “It is much easier for them to process information if it is given to them in a very visual, perceptual way.” > The pictures are dragged by the child to the bottom of the screen, triggering the app to say the word, or a whole sentence, out loud. The child then hears the word and is prompted to say it themselves. > “You have to do this stuff every single day from the time you get up to the time you go to bed, or it’s worthless,” said Kendra Rettig, whose 6-year-old son Stevie has severe, non-verbal autism. > Stevie Rettig can say a few words and occasionally a full sentence. Even those small steps, which most parents probably take for granted, are monumental moments for his mom. > “First come tears, then a big party,” said Rettig. Just one year ago, saying a full sentence was impossible for Stevie. > The Rettigs are one of 20 families Wendt and his team of students have worked with since 2011. SPEAKall! is available for download on iPad and can replace effective but bulky speech therapy tools like books and cards. It’s easy to see the progress Stevie has made, but it’s also easy to see the hope the hi-tech therapy gives his mom. > “At 6 years old, he can say this much to me – such a huge step – what’s he going to be able to do when he’s 18?” said Kendra. “He’s going to be able to communicate with me…” > The world is taking notice of SPEAKall!. Wendt said more than 21,000 people have downloaded the app. > “Kids with autism or other severe developmental disabilities can do so much more now than they could do so much more now that high technology devices are available,” said Wendt. “They can be better integrated in home and school environments.”… Here is a link to photos of SPEAKMODalities at _Purdue University_: [https://www.facebook.com/461580540602474/photos/?tab=album&album\_id=615529185207608](https://www.facebook.com/461580540602474/photos/?tab=album&album_id=615529185207608) (source: [Purdue app gives kids with autism their own voice | wlfi.com](http://wlfi.com/2014/06/25/purdue-app-gives-kids-with-autism-their-own-voice/)) ---
**Author:** ![Visionary7903](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/v/45deac/32.png) [@Visionary7903](https://pheromonetalk.com/u/Visionary7903)\ **Post date:** [May 25, 2016, 6:52am UTC](https://pheromonetalk.com/t/agricultural-specialisterne-rural-employment-revolution-for-those-with-autism/50615/644 "2016-05-25T06:52:17Z")
The subject of recent posts has mainly been on Autism-related organisations and events in the state of Michigan. To the west, _Fraser_ is a Minneapolis, Minnesota-based nonprofit that provides a range of services, including for children, in the Twin Cities. The nonprofit’s offerings include early childhood services for those of all abilities and Autism evaluations and services… > [@](#): > > Gabriel is a bright, adorable 5-year-old. He runs around the park, playing on the equipment, occasionally checking in with his mom, even trying, when urged, to include his 3-year-old sister, Cecilia, in the park’s cool climbing structure. > > “It’s his favourite,” said his mom, Tara Baker of Eagan. > > Things weren’t always this carefree for Gabriel. > > It’s only through years of therapy that he’s been able to navigate a complex situation like a playground with other children. > > Three years ago, Gabriel was diagnosed with autism at Minneapolis-based Fraser — Minnesota’s largest provider of autism services — and the resulting years of intervention have changed everything for this family. > > Kindergarten started this fall and Gabriel has fit right in with his classmates. He leaves class for speech and occupational therapy and a social-skills group, but otherwise his days are fairly typical. > > Baker attributes this success to his time in autism day treatment. It was there that she noticed the most significant change in her son’s ability to communicate and interact. > > …Baker knew she wanted a pediatrician who would be more proactive, but wanted to get her son in as soon as possible. > > So she found a good clinic and took the first opening. > > “She’s still our paediatrician,” Baker said. “We love her.” > > That first appointment lasted for 1.5 hours and ended with Baker walking out the door with referrals to speech therapy, occupational therapy and an autism diagnosis/assessment that would open the door to early intervention services. > > Baker felt she had finally been heard and her concerns were taken seriously. > > “Our new pediatrician respects that parents oftentimes do know best. They know their kids best. I feel it’s a true partnership,” she said. > > Gabriel got his diagnosis at a young age — 2 years old — compared to most children with autism. The national average is 5 years old. > > …It’s this kind of outcome that Maria McGannon, a certified pediatric nurse practitioner, points to when talking about the new program she implemented at South Lake Pediatrics, which has six Twin Cities locations. > > In partnership with Fraser, McGannon set out to address delays in diagnosing developmental disorders in their patients. > > The resulting program involves educating physicians about screening and disorders like autism, but most important is setting up a process for referrals. > > “Our approach has taken away the barriers,” McGannon said. “We no longer respond to parental concerns with ‘wait and see.’” > > At South Lake Pediatrics, the process involves screening and immediate referrals — to the Help Me Grow program and Fraser — for those who have results that indicate they’re at risk. > > “Four to five years ago, my response to parent concerns would have been very different. I followed the wait-and-see route too,” McGannon said. “But now we’re a unique practice in that we don’t sit on them any longer.” > > …The Learn the Signs. Act Early program educates healthcare providers. It also provides tools to parents, such as developmental checklists and the Amazing Me book, which details healthy development milestones in infants and young children. > > …Parents are often the driving force behind early detection of developmental disorders. > > Wendy Berghorst, director of Healthcare Services at Fraser, said it’s critical that families have a good family care provider who knows their child and is willing to make referrals. > > Putting in the time to find that type of doctor for your family isn’t always easy. > > One way is to seek out the right fit before your child is born. Most pediatric clinics offer a prenatal visit for expecting parents. > > Liz Hass, an advanced practice registered nurse at South Lake Pediatrics, strongly recommends that families go to those. > > “You can find a lot of information now online,” Hass said. “But walking in and meeting someone makes such a difference. It’s the only way to get a feel for if this practice will work with you and your family.” > > …It’s that good fit and the relationship families develop with their primary-care physician that’s crucial to getting a timely diagnosis. > > “You need that click,” said Hass. “You need to feel like you’re heard, you’re being listened to and that this person cares.” > > It’s this relationship and level of caring that made all the difference for Baker’s family. > > “I pushed for it. I kept bringing it up. I fought to get that diagnosis,” Baker said. “I knew I had to find someone who would listen.” > > Baker said her change of pediatrician, accelerated by a relocation, made all the difference in her son getting the help he needed. > > “I took the time to educate myself,” she said. “If I had a different personality type, it would have been really easy to just trust the doctor because I trusted her for all the other things.” Here is a link to a recent video from _Fraser_: [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F-DDb0KQNfY](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F-DDb0KQNfY) (source: [Autism: Don’t wait and see | Minnesota Parent](http://www.minnesotaparent.com/feature/autism-dont-wait-and-see)) ---
**Author:** ![Visionary7903](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/v/45deac/32.png) [@Visionary7903](https://pheromonetalk.com/u/Visionary7903)\ **Post date:** [May 26, 2016, 6:32am UTC](https://pheromonetalk.com/t/agricultural-specialisterne-rural-employment-revolution-for-those-with-autism/50615/645 "2016-05-26T06:32:29Z")
The subject of recent posts has mainly been on Autism-related events and organisations in the state of Michigan. _Easter Seals Michigan_ is an Oakland County, Michigan-based nonprofit that provides a wide variety of interventions that help individuals of all abilities, including those with Autism Spectrum Disorders. _Easter Seals Michigan_ offers individualised services implemented by specialised staff for children on the Autism Spectrum… > [@](#): > > Danielle C. Dallo of Southfield felt lost and alone in her efforts to connect with her son, Daniel, who has autism. But with help from Easter Seals Michigan, she and Daniel have made huge strides. He’s even told his dedicated mom that he loves her. > > “At school, Daniel knows no strangers,” explains his mom Danielle C. Dallo of her son who’s now a second-grader in Southfield. “He gives everyone high fives… Everyone knows who Daniel is and he knows everyone.” But getting to the point where Daniel knows and interacts with those around him hasn’t been an easy journey. > > …When Daniel was just a baby his mother began noticing that he didn’t seem to respond to her voice or touch. “It seemed like he just wasn’t paying attention,” Dallo recalls. But when Dallo’s second child, a daughter, was born about a year and a half later, she knew something had to be wrong. Dallo saw her daughter developing in ways her son never had. He had yet to utter any words. Not even ‘mama’ or ‘bye-bye.’ > > At 2 [and-a-half] years old Daniel began receiving early intervention treatment through the school district. Dallo lists off the treatments for Daniel, whose condition at that point had been ruled as developmental delays. “Let’s see, there was OT, PT and ST,” which Dallo explains stands for occupation therapy, physical therapy, and speech therapy. In his second year of intervention services through the school Daniel was diagnosed with autism and the school suggested that Dallo give Easter Seals a call. > > “I don’t mind sharing with people that when I found out about Daniel’s diagnosis, it was so hard,” says Dallo. “I didn’t know any other parents with kids with autism. Most people just didn’t talk about it. I did a lot of research on my own.” Dallo says she didn’t know how to help her son during those early days.. > > …As part of Easter Seals services for early intervention with children on the autism spectrum, Daniel began participating in the P.L.A.Y. Project. P.L.A.Y. stands for Play and Language for Autistic Youngsters and involves a Home Consultant from Easter Seals coming to the family’s home on a regular basis. During these in-home visits, the specialist teaches the family how to interact with their child, giving them simple ideas and tips. He or she will also videotape the family during each visits and offer positive feedback and tips for improvement and educating parents of where their child is functioning. > > “The P.L.A.Y. Project focuses on the social and emotional development of children with autism, which is the biggest deficit for a lot of kids on the spectrum,” explains Kathie Klingensmith, the Children’s Developmental Therapies and Services Supervisor for Easter Seals Michigan. “They struggle to make connections within their family, with their parents. We try to alter the way parents interact with their children to improve those relationships.” > > Klingensmith — or Miss Kathie — as many of her families know her, has worked with the Dallo family since Daniel first began receiving services through Easter Seals. Many children with autism have holes in their development. “We try to fill in those holes,” says Klingensmith. > > As young children develop, language is often a natural part of interacting with others. But since children on the autism spectrum have difficulty with these pivotal interactions, their language skills lag behind their peers, if they develop at all. “Instead of teaching kids on the autism spectrum about words, we teach them how to communicate,” Klingensmith says. > > Pointing, using pictures, and other forms of communication can stand in for words. “Unless they have motor difficulties, for many kids the language naturally begins to come out when we start working with them,” she adds. > > …Having feedback and ideas on tapping into Daniel’s world has been key to making greater strides. Daniel shares many of the same interests as his peers. He’s an avid Thomas the Train fan and loves watching episodes of The Octonauts. …Play- Doh is his ultimate reward — preferred over just about anything else. But unlike his peers, his schedule never changes, ever. He gets up early and goes to bed early, usually rising between 4 or 5 a.m. and turning in around 7:30 p.m. “Once he’s up, he’s going strong the minute his feet hit the floor,” laughs his mom. “He doesn’t take naps either. Never has.” > > …his language skills have grown over time. > > “When Daniel started the P.L.A.Y. Project, he didn’t speak. Not one word,” says Dallo. “He had been taught a few things in early interventions. He could do some signing. But I’d never heard him say, ‘Mommy,’ ‘Daddy,’ ‘Goodbye,’ or ‘I love you.’” > Those words slowly began coming as Dallo learned how to interact with Daniel. > > “I still remember the first time he went to school and he turned and said, ‘Goodbye, Mom.’ He was 4.” Dallo said goodbye to Daniel and then went to her car where she recalls, “I just sat there and broke down in the parking lot and cried. I’d waited so long to hear him say those words.” > > At 4 [and-a-half], Daniel reached another language milestone. “He was able to tell me, ‘Mom, I love you,’” says Dallo. “Turns out now he says ‘I love you’ to a lot of people. But he can tell you now how he feels. He can’t always explain what it’s about, but he can tell me, …‘I’m sad.’” > > Today, Dallo is confident that her son will continue to develop, especially with the help of Easter Seals and Miss Kathie. “I can really say 100 percent that the ideas Kathie gave me made all the difference.” Here is a link to a short video on _Easter Seals Michigan_’s ‘Walk with Me’ fundraiser from last year: [12 reactions | Thank you West Michigan. Over $50,000 raised for Easter Seals Michigan tonight at Walk With Me Grand Rapids. #WWMGR15 | Easterseals MORC](https://www.facebook.com/eastersealsmi/videos/vb.15775356181/10153377616156182/?type=2&theater) (source: [Easter Seals Michigan | Daniel - 2014 Child Ambassador](http://www.easterseals.com/michigan/shared-components/daniel-2014-child.html)) ---
**Author:** ![Visionary7903](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/v/45deac/32.png) [@Visionary7903](https://pheromonetalk.com/u/Visionary7903)\ **Post date:** [May 27, 2016, 5:48am UTC](https://pheromonetalk.com/t/agricultural-specialisterne-rural-employment-revolution-for-those-with-autism/50615/646 "2016-05-27T05:48:05Z")
The subject of recent posts has mainly been on Autism-related events and organisations in the state of Michigan. The _Macomb/St. Clair County Autism Society_ is a Shelby Township, Michigan-based non-profit whose mission is to enhance the lives of anyone, including children, affected by Autism. The _Society_ has sponsored movies, camps, and holiday parties, donated books to local libraries, donated items to benefit children in the Autism Intervention programs in schools with its Wish List program, and passed on information to families in need… > [@](#): > > An event that started as an additional fundraiser and morphed into a highly anticipated event for those whose lives have been touched by autism will celebrate its 10-year anniversary June 20. > > The Out and About Autism 5K Walk/Run and 1-mile Fun Run will start at Eastwood Beach in Stony Creek Metropark. Registration begins at 8 a.m., and participants can also register online… > > Theresa Gabalis, president of the Macomb/St. Clair affiliate of the Autism Society, said some new vendors, such as therapy clinics, will participate in the event, but that everything else will stay the same… > > “When we started the event, we needed another big fundraiser …and it was another way the kids could get involved,” she said. > > “It started small, with probably less than 200 people the first year, but it’s grown. I think the most we’ve had was maybe 300 runners.” > > Gabalis said the money raised from the event will go toward the chapter’s general fund. > > The fund subsidizes grants for special education classrooms and …recreational outings, and parties for the kids and other related programs. > > “It’s a cross-country trail, so there’s some easy hills. It’s a fun, beautiful course,” she said. > > “I think it’s a great cause. Come out and support a loved one, a neighbor, a friend…” > > Macomb/St. Clair affiliate of the Autism Society Vice President Annette Duda said “…[It’s] important to get the information and awareness out there.” > > She said the atmosphere at the event is friendly and supportive. It unites families who, in the past, have taken advantage of the resources that the Macomb/St. Clair chapter of the Autism Society has to offer. > > “It’s pretty quick. The whole event is done by noon,” Duda said. “Some people even do it twice.”… Here is a link to a video from the _Macomb/St. Clair County Autism Society_’s ‘Friday friends exercise class’ at _CCPlus @ The Center_ in Mount Clemens, Michigan from a few years ago: [Friday friends CCplus exercise class. Go to our website for more info! | Autism Corporation - supporting Macomb & St Clair Counties](https://www.facebook.com/138203579535957/videos/vb.138203579535957/640457145977262/?type=2&theater) (source: [301 Moved Permanently](http://www.candgnews.com/news/local-autism-society-chapter-get-out-and-about-84201)) ---
**Author:** ![Visionary7903](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/v/45deac/32.png) [@Visionary7903](https://pheromonetalk.com/u/Visionary7903)\ **Post date:** [May 28, 2016, 4:47am UTC](https://pheromonetalk.com/t/agricultural-specialisterne-rural-employment-revolution-for-those-with-autism/50615/647 "2016-05-28T04:47:40Z")
The subject of recent posts has mainly been on Autism-related events and organisations in the state of Michigan. _Michigan State University_’s _Child Development Laboratories_ (_CDL_) is an East Lansing, Michigan-based non-profit that offers preschool programming to children throughout the Greater Lansing Area and is a part of the Department of Human Development and Family Studies of the _University_. _CDL_ is the location of the _Early Learning Institute_ at _Michigan State University_, which has a mission to provide the highest quality evidence-based educational and social-emotional programming to diverse children with Autism Spectrum Disorders… > [@](#): > > Charles Rich watches his son Talyn through a small window inside Michigan State University’s Child Development Laboratories. > Like the other children in the bustling classroom, Talyn alternates between searching for something to play with and interacting with staff one on one. > The group of half a dozen 3- and 4-year-olds are the first enrollees of the lab’s new Early Learning Institute for children who fall somewhere on the autism spectrum. > Talyn and the other children in the new program receive specialized therapy and lessons from a dozen behavior technicians and counselors. > “One teacher for even two or three kids like Talyn is impossible,” Rich said. Without a constant eye, Talyn can quickly find trouble, whether hurting himself or getting into things he shouldn’t, he said. > Talyn’s father said he’s been continually frustrated with the lack of resources available within the public school system. If there’s any chance for his son to become more communicative, it’ll be thanks to the therapy he gets here, he said. > He tries not to have expectations about his son’s development. > “He’s an awesome kid,” Rich said. “He’s happy and healthy and even if nothing changes, he’ll still be awesome.” > > As lawmakers carve out greater medical coverage for autism therapy, the institute was set in motion to fill in gaps in education and therapy before a child is expected to sit in a kindergarten classroom. > All of the program’s behavior technicians are trained to interact using applied behavior analysis, or ABA, said Kate LaLonde, the institute’s clinical director. In practical terms, ABA amounts to rewarding and encouraging positive behaviors and discouraging negative patterns. > But rather than have a few hours of ABA each day like other programs she looked into, the institute is implementing the strategy from the moment students arrive in the morning until they are picked up in the afternoon. Parents also receive information about ABA in order to continue the therapy at home, she said. > “Research shows applied behavior analysis is one of the best treatments for people on the autism spectrum,” LaLonde said. Students also receive socialization prior to entering kindergarten, both with fellow institute students and with other children in the development lab. > > Aside from constant activity and monitoring, LaLonde said children on the autism spectrum have their own unique challenges parents and educators need to understand. One of the most recognizable is a lack of requests or questions. > “While other kids their age might ask hundreds of questions in three hours, our technicians often won’t get a single question or request over the same period of time,” she said. Making children request …is one of the first things behavior technicians do, LaLonde said. > Other seemingly minute differences between the MSU program and others are making big differences, said Laurie Linscott, who co-developed the program… > > Rather than having technicians sit between students to assist them, Linscott encourages staff to sit farther back. This allows children to not only interact with their peers more readily, but helps them be less reliant on the adults in the room …she said… Here is a link to photos from _Michigan State University_’s Child Development Laboratories from a few years ago: [https://www.facebook.com/192350377514251/photos/?tab=album&album\_id=372091739540113](https://www.facebook.com/192350377514251/photos/?tab=album&album_id=372091739540113) (source: [New MSU program raises bar for autism education](http://www.freep.com/story/news/health/2015/09/24/new-msu-program-raises-bar-autism-education/72737068/)) ---
**Author:** ![Visionary7903](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/v/45deac/32.png) [@Visionary7903](https://pheromonetalk.com/u/Visionary7903)\ **Post date:** [May 29, 2016, 6:18am UTC](https://pheromonetalk.com/t/agricultural-specialisterne-rural-employment-revolution-for-those-with-autism/50615/648 "2016-05-29T06:18:11Z")
The subject of recent posts has mainly been on Autism-related events and organisations in the state of Michigan. The _Copper Country Autism Awareness Foundation_ (_CCAA_) is a Houghton County, Michigan-based nonprofit that provides information and assistance to parents and families of those living with Autism. This may include information on available resources, efforts to increase general awareness, sponsorship of Autism-friendly events, information on available respite services, and advocacy efforts for children… > [@](#): > > Tim Johnston was pleased to learn about the Copper Country Autism Awareness …Day, which took place Saturday …in Houghton, because he thought it would provide a safe place for his 7-year-old son, Ari, to enjoy himself for a while. > Johnston… said Ari was diagnosed as having one of the autism spectrum disorders in July. It was noticed that Ari would often get intellectually “stuck” during certain activities. > Ari’s mother, Sara Johnston, said Saturday was the first time the family attended the event, and she was appreciative of being able to share with other parents of autistic children. > “It’s a fun event,” she said. “It’s nice to see other kids and know we’re not the only parents with kids in a similar situation.” > > …Saturday was the fourth [such] Day… > Jeannie LaPonte, trustee with the Elks Lodge 404, said the group supports local non-profit organizations. > “We like to do things with children.” > LaPonte said the Elks have supported all four of the family fun days. > Shannon Skotarczyk brought her then 5-year-old daughter, Kayleigh, to the family fun day last year. Now she’s a member of the CCAA board. > Skotarczyk said it’s often difficult for parents to determine if their child may have some form of autism, or if it’s just normal childhood behavior. > > …Skotarczyk said parents with autistic children, or those who are concerned their children may be autistic can attend CCAA board meetings at the Elks Lodge 404 in Calumet… > > Sue Antila, CCAA member, said Autism Speaks will be sponsoring World Autism Day on April 2, and CCAA will be promoting that over the coming months… Here is a link to photos from a _CCAA_ fundraiser held a year ago in Calumet, Michigan: [https://www.facebook.com/CCautism/photos/?tab=album&album\_id=1022445187780672](https://www.facebook.com/CCautism/photos/?tab=album&album_id=1022445187780672) (source: [Parents, children mark Autism Awareness Day - MiningJournal.net | News, Sports, Jobs, Marquette Information | The Mining Journal](http://www.miningjournal.net/page/content.detail/id/626022/Parents--children-mark-Autism-Awareness-Day.html?nav=5243)) ---
**Author:** ![Visionary7903](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/v/45deac/32.png) [@Visionary7903](https://pheromonetalk.com/u/Visionary7903)\ **Post date:** [May 30, 2016, 5:17am UTC](https://pheromonetalk.com/t/agricultural-specialisterne-rural-employment-revolution-for-those-with-autism/50615/649 "2016-05-30T05:17:12Z")
The subject of recent posts has mainly been on Autism-related events and organisations in the state of Michigan. The _Northern Michigan Autism Association_ is a Petoskey, Michigan-based nonprofit serving those with Autism Spectrum Disorders in Emmet and Charlevoix counties. As a community organisation, it works to raise awareness of Autism and for the understanding, acceptance, and inclusion, of those individuals on the Autism Spectrum… > [@](#): > > The state of Michigan developed a rule to determine autism spectrum disorder. As written, the rule states: “a lifelong developmental disability that adversely affects a student’s educational performance in one or more of the following performance areas: (a) Academic. (b) Behavioral. (c) Social.” > The evaluation of autism is an assessment of a child’s communication, behavior and social interaction in order to determine proper treatment and further action. > For students with autism, program decisions are individualized and are made as a part of the individualized education program team process, said Diane Heinzelman, director of special education for Charlevoix-Emmet Intermediate School District. > “Federal law requires, to the maximum extent appropriate, children with disabilities are educated with children who are not disabled, and special classes, separate schooling, or other removal of children with disabilities from the regular educational environment occurs only when the nature or severity of the disability of a child is such that education in regular classes with the use of supplementary aids and services cannot be achieved satisfactorily,” said Heinzelman. > > …Evidence-based practices are proven to be effective to support individuals with autism, said Heinzelman. One example of this evidence-based practice …is the use of a visual schedule. > “This is a strategy that provides a visual representation — using pictures and/or text to articulate movement from one activity or action to the next,” said Heinzelman. > This display of events is often helpful to those without autism as well, she said. > “The goal of our educators should be to help all students benefit from the general education curriculum to the maximum extent possible. It is imperative that special education teachers, speech therapists, and occupational therapists continue to educate themselves about autism so they can be effective in their individual roles and provide guidance to the general education teachers and school administration,” said Mike Atchison, co-founder of Northern Michigan Autism Association, an association for families and individuals with autism throughout Charlevoix and Emmet counties. > Atchison and his wife have an 8-year-old son with autism. > “We have been very impressed with the quality of the educators who have worked with our son so far, including his general education classroom teachers. We feel fortunate to live within the Petoskey school district and the Charlevoix-Emmet Intermediate School District,” he said. > Professionals, educators and parents alike believe that the education of a child is a team effort and clear communication should always be practiced and questions should always be asked. > Many local schools have or are in the process of developing a peer-to-peer support program, which is considered an evidence-based approach geared toward the support of students with autism. This peer support has proven to be effective and improve student engagement in the school community. Social and problem solving skills are also worked on through this program which can result in both behavioral and academic success. > > …“All members of a community have unique strengths and talents, and this includes persons with autism. Although the individual with autism may demonstrate this in an alternate way, when we understand, support, and value these differences, our community is stronger,” said Heinzelman. > Atchison noted there may be community members who feel that money spent on special education in general is a waste. > “Our answer to them would be this: The efficacy of early intervention in the treatment autism spectrum disorders is well-established. If it were not, there would be no state-mandated insurance benefit. Either we pay a little now to help these individuals reach their full potential, or we pay more to support them for their entire lives,” he said. > > …“If your child has recently been diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder, don’t try to figure it all out by yourselves. Reach out to others in the community for help. There are a lot of families in the area who have recently been down the same road. They will be your most valuable resources. If you contact us at the Northern Michigan Autism Association …we can connect you with some of these families,” said Atchison… Here is a link to photos from the recent ‘Autism Walk’, held in Boyne City, Michigan a month ago: [https://photos.google.com/share/AF1QipP0fSsfYx8ntzsWhUwV7Kx9M-WUi3pX1aJfQiZPT6m3SaTOG31qo7ruNltG7lT0wg?key=NFVKZXozTDVpREJCOUJfZ1V1M29BOU14MWxBUEVB](https://photos.google.com/share/AF1QipP0fSsfYx8ntzsWhUwV7Kx9M-WUi3pX1aJfQiZPT6m3SaTOG31qo7ruNltG7lT0wg?key=NFVKZXozTDVpREJCOUJfZ1V1M29BOU14MWxBUEVB) (source: [Autism education and awareness - Petoskey News-Review: Featured-pnr](http://www.petoskeynews.com/featured-pnr/autism-education-and-awareness/article_99315a57-8049-51c3-8618-14ff215a4ca4.html)) ---
**Author:** ![Visionary7903](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/v/45deac/32.png) [@Visionary7903](https://pheromonetalk.com/u/Visionary7903)\ **Post date:** [May 31, 2016, 5:02am UTC](https://pheromonetalk.com/t/agricultural-specialisterne-rural-employment-revolution-for-those-with-autism/50615/650 "2016-05-31T05:02:39Z")
The subject of recent posts has mainly been on Autism-related events and organisations in the state of Michigan. _Autism H.O.P.E. of Lenawee_ is a Lenawee County, Michigan-based non-profit whose mission is to provide new opportunities and education for all who struggle with Autism Spectrum Disorders. Just next week, _Autism H.O.P.E. of Lenawee_ will team up with _Lenawee Great Start Collaborative_ as well as _The Center for Autism at Promedica_, for the ‘Annual Inclusive Day of Play in Lenawee County’… > [@](#): > > The Center for Autism at ProMedica Bixby Hospital hosted a presentation Thursday to give the public a better idea of this …condition and its treatment. > > From the causes and treatment to insurance coverage of the condition, the autism presentation was hosted by the center’s staff at the Adrian hospital. > > “This is about educating the community and letting them know what we have to offer,” said center manager Alexis Eggenberger, who led the presentation. > > …“While autism is not curable, it is treatable,” Eggenberger said. > > This is the center’s main focus with treatment and care designed for children from age of diagnosis through nine years old. > > Eggenberger said the center has board-certified behavior analysts, speech-language pathologists and clinical behavior technicians on staff. > > She said the center’s care is based on integrated applied behavior analysis and speech therapy. > > [One] of the focus areas [is] group skills. > > It’s highly individualized with one-on-one programming. > > “All of the programs rely on current findings and evidence-based research,” Eggenberger said. > > …Autism HOPE of Lenawee president Jennifer Landstrom attended the presentation. > > She said having the center in Lenawee County adds a great resource for families. > > “This center can set a good basis for individual care,” Landstrom said. > > …The center officially opened at the end of January. It still has openings for families and children… Here is a link to photos of the ‘2nd Annual Inclusive Day of Play in Lenawee County’, held at _Bachmayer Park_ in Blissfield, Michigan, from a few years ago: [https://www.facebook.com/lenawee.gsc/photos/?tab=album&album\_id=1536129670033937](https://www.facebook.com/lenawee.gsc/photos/?tab=album&album_id=1536129670033937) (source: ([Center for Autism at ProMedica Bixby Hospital ready to help](http://www.lenconnect.com/article/20160311/NEWS/160319784))) ---
**Author:** ![Visionary7903](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/v/45deac/32.png) [@Visionary7903](https://pheromonetalk.com/u/Visionary7903)\ **Post date:** [June 1, 2016, 6:15am UTC](https://pheromonetalk.com/t/agricultural-specialisterne-rural-employment-revolution-for-those-with-autism/50615/651 "2016-06-01T06:15:04Z")
The subject of recent posts has mainly been on Autism-related events and organisations in the state of Michigan. The _Northern Michigan Autism Association_ is a Petoskey, Michigan-based nonprofit serving those with Autism Spectrum Disorders in Emmet and Charlevoix counties. As a community organisation, it works to raise awareness of Autism and for the understanding, acceptance, and inclusion, of those individuals on the Autism Spectrum… > [@](#): > > …“The goal of our educators should be to help all students benefit from the general education curriculum to the maximum extent possible. It is imperative that special education teachers, speech therapists, and occupational therapists continue to educate themselves about autism so they can be effective in their individual roles and provide guidance to the general education teachers and school administration,” said Mike Atchison, co-founder of Northern Michigan Autism Association, an association for families and individuals with autism throughout Charlevoix and Emmet counties. > > Atchison and his wife have an 8-year-old son with autism. “We have been very impressed with the quality of the educators who > have worked with our son so far, including his general education classroom teachers. We feel fortunate to live within the Petoskey > school district and the Charlevoix-Emmet Intermediate School District,” he said. > > Professionals, educators and parents alike believe that the education of a child is a team effort and clear communication should always be practiced and questions should always be asked. > > Many local schools have or are in the process of developing a peer-to-peer support program, which is considered an evidence-based approach geared toward the support of students with autism. This peer support has proven to be effective and improve student engagement in the school community. Social and problem solving skills are also worked on through this program which can result in both behavioral and academic success. > > …Atchison noted there may be community members who feel that money spent on special education in general is a waste. > “Our answer to them would be this: The efficacy of early intervention in the treatment autism spectrum disorders is well-established. If it were not, there would be no state-mandated insurance benefit. Either we pay a little now to help these individuals reach their full potential, or we pay more to support them for their entire lives,” he said. > > …“If your child has recently been diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder, don’t try to figure it all out by yourselves. Reach out to others in the community for help. There are a lot of families in the area who have recently been down the same road. They will be your most valuable resources. If you contact us at the Northern Michigan Autism Association …we can connect you with some of these families,” said Atchison… Here is a link to photos from the recent ‘Autism Walk’, held in Boyne City, Michigan a month ago: [https://photos.google.com/share/AF1QipP0fSsfYx8ntzsWhUwV7Kx9M-WUi3pX1aJfQiZPT6m3SaTOG31qo7ruNltG7lT0wg?key=NFVKZXozTDVpREJCOUJfZ1V1M29BOU14MWxBUEVB](https://photos.google.com/share/AF1QipP0fSsfYx8ntzsWhUwV7Kx9M-WUi3pX1aJfQiZPT6m3SaTOG31qo7ruNltG7lT0wg?key=NFVKZXozTDVpREJCOUJfZ1V1M29BOU14MWxBUEVB) (source: [Autism education and awareness - Petoskey News-Review: Featured-pnr](http://www.petoskeynews.com/featured-pnr/autism-education-and-awareness/article_99315a57-8049-51c3-8618-14ff215a4ca4.html)) ---
**Author:** ![Visionary7903](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/v/45deac/32.png) [@Visionary7903](https://pheromonetalk.com/u/Visionary7903)\ **Post date:** [June 1, 2016, 7:00am UTC](https://pheromonetalk.com/t/agricultural-specialisterne-rural-employment-revolution-for-those-with-autism/50615/652 "2016-06-01T07:00:52Z")
The subject of recent posts has mainly been on Autism-related events and organisations in the state of Michigan. _Jackson Autism Support Network_ (_JASN_) is a Jackson, Michigan-based nonprofit that is ran solely on donations from the community. _JASN_ organises annual fundraisers so that it can help children with Autism in the area… > [@](#): > > The Jackson Autism Support Network’s third annual Around the Park for Autism raised $13,000 for local families in need of support. > > The route took runners and walkers through and around Cascades Falls Park’s recently renovated landmark falls Saturday, May 16. > > One-hundred percent of the proceeds from the event went toward local families affected by Autism. > > Jackson native Randy Andrews won with a time of 18:26. Amy Gingras, also from Jackson, was the first-placed woman at 21:18, according to a press release from Gerdau. > > Some of Jackson Autism Support Network’s programs include support and social groups, special events and raising community awareness. > > Gerdau sponsored this year’s event, which featured local food and drink vendors, games and music… Here is a link to a video on this year’s _JASN_ ‘Around the Park for Autism 5K Run/Walk’ held at _Cascades Falls Park_ in Jackson, Michigan a couple of weeks ago: [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gA8zBLojO3c](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gA8zBLojO3c) (source: [Around the Park for Autism raises $13,000 for local families | MLive.com](http://www.mlive.com/news/jackson/index.ssf/2015/05/around_the_park_for_autism_rai.html)) ---
**Author:** ![Visionary7903](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/v/45deac/32.png) [@Visionary7903](https://pheromonetalk.com/u/Visionary7903)\ **Post date:** [June 2, 2016, 6:43am UTC](https://pheromonetalk.com/t/agricultural-specialisterne-rural-employment-revolution-for-those-with-autism/50615/653 "2016-06-02T06:43:33Z")
The subject of recent posts has mainly been on Autism-related events and organisations in the state of Michigan. To the southeast, _The Childhood League Center_ is a Columbus, Ohio-based nonprofit that serves children with special needs, including those with Autism Spectrum Disorders, by providing the best in early childhood education, interventions and therapies. _The Childhood League Center_ works with children, birth to age 6, at the most critical time in their development… > [@](#): > > Who says the trains have to go 'round and 'round? In the mind of 2-year-old Ben Luu, toy locomotives throw birthday parties, too, and the pieces of cake are their babies. > > Neither his parents nor his teachers see any reason to urge a more realistic scenario. > > “A lot of the time, we just follow his leads and then expand on them,” said Maggie Gons of the Childhood League Center. "When it’s his idea, it goes a lot better than if we say, ‘Let’s do this.’ ‘’ > > Gons, a speech pathologist, also is a local PLAY (Play and Learning for Autistic Youngsters) Project consultant. The early-intervention program teaches families how to use play – which is practical and affordable to pretty much everyone – as a means to improve social interaction, communication and development in young kids with autism disorders. > > Gons and other PLAY Project trainers work with families to develop individual plans to follow at home. They also provide guidance, coaching and video feedback along the way, as parents move toward the goal of 15 to 20 hours of focused play time every week with their kids. > > Parents often learn that part of the key is not to be such bossy playmates. Because they are geared toward teaching and explaining, “Parents tend to play too high,” Gons said, unwittingly pushing kids to meet Mom or Dad’s idea of their potential. > > While there’s nothing wrong with hoping your child will strive and reach, such approaches can throw up roadblocks, especially for young children who don’t interact in typical ways. But when play is naturally meaningful to the child, PLAY Project supporters say, engagement follows. > > Ben’s dad, Jason Luu, said watching video of himself playing with Ben made it clear he was trying too hard. > > “I didn’t let him come to the idea on his own,” Luu said. “Or maybe I’d cut him short or something without realizing it.” > > The Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities embraced the PLAY Project in 2011, said Director John Martin. About 70 percent of counties now have some type of access to the services, whether at home, at an intervention program or both. > > “This unique program helps to build the essential relationship between parent and child,” he said. > > The Childhood League Center, which provides early childhood intervention, education and preschool programs, announced last week that it has become the first licensed PLAY Project Center outside of the founding center in Michigan. Dr. Richard Solomon, a pediatrician, developed the model in 2001 in response to a lack of availability of intensive, cost-effective, early intervention services. > > …With many staff members trained as PLAY consultants, the Childhood League Center expects to help more families and professionals throughout the region with information, training and workshops, said Executive Director Ginger Young. > > The Luus began searching for intervention strategies several months ago after noticing that their bright, healthy boy “was becoming more and more difficult to engage,” mother Julie Luu said. > > Although he’d already taught himself to count to 100, “His eye contact was getting worse. He was happier playing by himself.” > > Ben, who’s not quite 3, is far more engaged now and his imagination has blossomed, his parents say. > > “There are still things Ben has to work on,” Mrs. Luu said, smiling as her son plunged a toy dinosaur, cow and chicken into a pretend pond. “But he’s made huge strides.” Here is a link to photos _The Childhood League Center_’s Early Intervention classes visit to the _Columbus Zoo and Aquarium_ from last year: [https://www.facebook.com/thechildhoodleaguecenter/photos/?tab=album&album\_id=10153499438889800](https://www.facebook.com/thechildhoodleaguecenter/photos/?tab=album&album_id=10153499438889800) (source: [Early-intervention program works with families of autistic children to improve interaction, development | The Columbus Dispatch](http://www.dispatch.com/content/stories/local/2016/04/16/early-intervention-program-works-with-families-of-autistic-children-to-improve-interaction-development.html)) ---
**Author:** ![Visionary7903](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/v/45deac/32.png) [@Visionary7903](https://pheromonetalk.com/u/Visionary7903)\ **Post date:** [June 3, 2016, 8:46am UTC](https://pheromonetalk.com/t/agricultural-specialisterne-rural-employment-revolution-for-those-with-autism/50615/654 "2016-06-03T08:46:51Z")
The subject of recent posts has mainly been on Autism-related events and organisations in the state of Michigan. To the north, the _Timmins Therapeutic Riding Association_ (_TTRA_) is a Timmins, Ontario, Canada-based nonprofit that is committed to improving the quality of life for challenged individuals, including those with Autism Spectrum Disorders, in its community. It recently started a miniature horse program… > [@](#): > > The first group of kids to participate in a new program put on by the Timmins Therapeutic Riding Association arrived for one last evening with their miniature horse friends on Monday. > > The …program …is a partnership between the therapeutic riding association and Autism Ontario which gave local kids with autism time to interact with the miniature horses housed at the Rainbow Stables. > > While the kids don’t actually get to ride the four-foot-tall horses, they do get to groom them, learn horsemanship skills, and lead the animals around for activities and games. The association’s vice -president Jean Gibbons says the idea behind the program is to help its young participants with their communication skills, confidence, and problem-solving skills. > > “There’s sort of an unspoken communication that goes on between the child and the horse, and you can see the magic happening. You see a child who may not have the ability to verbalize things, but when they get with the horses and do the grooming and whatnot, you see the smiles,” explained Gibbons. > > Melanie Bastin signed up her son, Tyler, for the four-week program after she received an email about it from Autism Ontario, which regularly sends families with autistic children notices of available activities and programs. She said the time with the horses has had a big impact on Tyler. > > “This was his first time around horses. It’s been absolutely amazing; he now wants to learn to ride. So we went from knowing nothing to him wanting to ride horses,” she said. “It was very helpful for his anxiety, actually; very therapeutic. He’s much more calm around the horses …which is much better.” > > …According to Gibbons, the …program is the result of a desire to work with Autism Ontario on creating a ‘social learning opportunity.’ They reached out [to] North Eastern Ontario Family and Children’s Services to help get the word out, and 20 minutes after the program was advertised online, all the spots were filled. > > “That’s goes to show the need and the interest,” said Gibbons. > > The program was a big hit with the first group of kids and their parents and caretakers, with no child missing a single evening at the stables. Melanie Bastin said she would ‘absolutely’ recommend the program to other parents of autistic children. > > Gibbons said that considering the level of interest, they are hoping to do the program again with another group of kids. Other organizations, she said, have also been inquiring about having a similar program done for them as well. Here is a link to photos from the program from less than a week ago: [https://www.facebook.com/TimminsTherapeuticRidingAssociation/posts/609249445918497](https://www.facebook.com/TimminsTherapeuticRidingAssociation/posts/609249445918497) (source: [Autistic kids, mini horses bond in new program | Timmins Press](http://www.timminspress.com/2016/06/01/autistic-kids-miniature-horses-bond-in-new-program)) ---
**Author:** ![Visionary7903](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/v/45deac/32.png) [@Visionary7903](https://pheromonetalk.com/u/Visionary7903)\ **Post date:** [June 4, 2016, 11:05am UTC](https://pheromonetalk.com/t/agricultural-specialisterne-rural-employment-revolution-for-those-with-autism/50615/655 "2016-06-04T11:05:59Z")
The subject of yesterday’s post was the _Timmins Therapeutic Riding Association_ (_TTRA_), a Timmins, Ontario, Canada-based nonprofit that is committed to improving the quality of life for challenged individuals, including those with Autism Spectrum Disorders, in its community. It recently started a miniature horse program. _Autism Ontario North Bay & Area_ is a North Bay, Ontario, Canada-based nonprofit that consists of a small but dedicated group of parents and professionals doing its best to improve the lives of families living with Autism Spectrum Disorders in North Bay and surrounding area. It offers social opportunities and life skills programs for people of all ages with Autism Spectrum Disorders as well as speakers and workshops for parents, educators, caregivers and the community at large… > [@](#): > > …Alicia Turner’s son Cayden was …diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder… > > At 6 years old, Cayden is non-verbal but Turner is obviously so pleased with her son’s progression through life. > > And even more pleased with how children in the community respond towards Cayden. > > “There’s something extremely special about children in the spectrum,” Turner stated in an interview. > > The autism spectrum is used to describe a range of conditions associated with autism, including Asperger’s syndrome. > > Turner is a young woman, a single mother raising her son in the community. She’s also the president of Autism Ontario’s North East Chapter. > > When it was time to bring Cayden into the school system, Turner was shocked. > > Nicole Raymond, a resource teacher at Ecole publique l’Heritage, has witnessed first-hand the acceptance today’s children have towards their autistic classmates. > > “Kids are so empathic towards them, very open to their diagnosis,” Raymond said. > > Five autistic children attend l’Heritage. Schools have begun to adapt and change what needs to be changed for these children, according to Turner. > > And the children’s acceptance plays a massive part in that. > > “There are some kids (at school) who go to see him to say hello,” Turner said. “I call them his little guardian angels because they watch over him.” > > On trips to the mall, Cayden’s friends stop their mothers and insist on running over to greet him. > > “Children nowadays, because of awareness, I find that they really do accept these (autistic) kids and they’re able to enjoy their childhood,” Turner stated. “They have the knowledge that this child is different but that doesn’t make them any less of a human being.” > > And while Cayden is non-verbal, he’s still able to communicate with his mom. Thanks to an iPad he received recently, he’s now able to tell his mother that he loves her. > > “I still get choked up every time,” Turner shared with a laugh. > > …“With Cayden, we’ve been really lucky. He’s a pretty easygoing kid,” she added. > > On April 2, World Autism Awareness Day, the city of North Bay does its part and raises the flag to promote awareness… Here is a link to photos of _Autism Ontario North Bay & Area_’s ‘Cycle for Autism’ from five years ago: [https://www.facebook.com/aonorthbay/photos/?tab=album&album\_id=216341878409274](https://www.facebook.com/aonorthbay/photos/?tab=album&album_id=216341878409274) (source: [Local mom praises son's 'little guardian angels' - North Bay News](https://www.baytoday.ca/local-news/local-mom-praises-sons-little-guardian-angels-19553)) ---
**Author:** ![Visionary7903](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/v/45deac/32.png) [@Visionary7903](https://pheromonetalk.com/u/Visionary7903)\ **Post date:** [June 5, 2016, 5:56am UTC](https://pheromonetalk.com/t/agricultural-specialisterne-rural-employment-revolution-for-those-with-autism/50615/656 "2016-06-05T05:56:56Z")
The subject of the last couple of posts has been on Autism-related events and organisations in the Canadian province of Ontario. The _Lighthouse Learning and Development Centre_ is a Greater Toronto Area, Ontario, Canada-based private school focused on academics for children on the Autism Spectrum. Last October, one of the school’s co-founders (Laurie McRae) helped to organise an ‘Under The Umbrella’ gala fundraiser so that families can apply to the scholarship fund for assistance for all or part of the cost of tuition at the _Lighthouse Learning and Development Centre_… > [@](#): > > On October 17th, 2014 after a long work week, there was a full turn out at Le Parc Banquet Hall to support John and Laurie in their fundraising efforts for 3rd Annual Gala Under The Umbrella. Under the Umbrella supports those effected with an Autism Spectrum Disorder. > > …The night started off with cocktails and hors d’oeuvers as guest arrive and settle in and mingle or get their first peek at the assortment of items up for silent auction. Items that included sports paraphernalia, signed pieces, art, glasswares, jewellery, accessories and off course Leafs tickets that went both at silent and live auctions. > > After an fantastic opening speech by Laurie to explain why every supporter in attendance was there for… the kids. Laurie and John have been fundraising for Autism for 3 years to not only improve existing programs at Kerry’s Place Autism Services, but they have also embarked on their own camp (Autism Social Skills Camp). > > …John and Laurie were able to host a week long summer camp that was attended by 20 kids and help them work on social skills such as; Dealing with Disappointment, Interrupting, Compromise, Asking for help, Teamwork, Showing & maintaining interest, Starting & Ending a conversation and Losing. > > These campers were also able to enjoy a once in a life time opportunity to sit in the Air 2 helicopter, make slim, meet the YRP K9 unit and other activities. > > Guests where able roam the gala event to view all items up for silent auction and place their bids for any items that caught their eye to take home, there was also a raffle for some great prizes and tickets sold went to a great cause in support of this fundraiser. Others took to the foyer to put on some accessories and pose at the photo-booth. > > After the main course, the night’s festivities continue with live performance by comedy hypnotist; Robert Maxwell. > > …Special thank you to Laurie and John McRae for the invite to this gala event and to help raise awareness Autism and their fantastic fundraiser, Under the Umbrella. Here is a link to photos of children on the Autism Spectrum and workers from the _Lighthouse Learning and Development Centre_: [https://lhldc.com/our-students/](https://lhldc.com/our-students/) (sources: [Under The Umbrella Annual Gala In Support of Autism Awareness Tickets, Fri, 16 Oct 2015 at 6:00 PM | Eventbrite](http://www.eventbrite.ca/e/under-the-umbrella-annual-gala-in-support-of-autism-awareness-tickets-18206222301); [Under The Umbrella, Oct., 17, 2014 @LeParc Banquet Hall – BKonthescene](https://bkonthescene.com/2014/10/19/under-the-umbrella-oct-17-2014-leparc-banquet-hall/)) ---
**Author:** ![Visionary7903](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/v/45deac/32.png) [@Visionary7903](https://pheromonetalk.com/u/Visionary7903)\ **Post date:** [June 6, 2016, 9:28am UTC](https://pheromonetalk.com/t/agricultural-specialisterne-rural-employment-revolution-for-those-with-autism/50615/657 "2016-06-06T09:28:17Z")
The subject of the last couple of posts has been on Autism-related events and organisations in the Canadian province of Ontario. _Hands The Family Help Network_ is a North Bay, Ontario, Canada-based nonprofit dedicated to improving the life experiences of families, children, youth and adults with a developmental disability, including an Autism Spectrum Disorder, who need support and guidance. Through it services, including, Autism, developmental disabilities, and early intervention, _Hands_ serves more than 9,000 families across Muskoka, Nipissing, Parry Sound and Northern Ontario… > [@](#): > > The Home Depot Canada Foundation generously donated $2000 towards a new playground at Hands TheFamilyHelpNetwork.ca’s Autism Centre in North Bay. In addition, Home Depot provided volunteer labour along with their building knowledge and expertise to make the playground a reality. > > Team Depot, a group of volunteers many of whom currently work for Home Depot, or have in the past, were on hand Friday September 14th partnering with Hands staff to get the job done. > > The Home Depot Foundation matches dollars raised through in-store initiatives two-to-one, with every dollar going back into local community projects such as this… > > Dr. Karen Grattan-Miscio, Clinical Director of Autism Services at Hands said Team Depot “did a fantastic job, they were supportive and so easy to work with! The children we serve with Autism will benefit immensely from this playground.” > > The playground will serve as a safe place for children with Autism to practice gross motor skills, play and have a break from intensive therapy. > > Hands TheFamilyHelpNetwork.ca extends their deepest gratitude to the Home Depot Canada Foundation for their donation, as well as our local Team Depot for their time and dedication to the project. Thank you as well to Dr. Karen Grattan-Miscio for taking the initiative to apply for the funding and get the ball rolling! Here is a link to photos of _Hands The Family Help Network_’s ‘Autism Services Open House’ in North Bay, Ontario from a few years ago: [https://www.facebook.com/handsthefamilyhelpnetwork.ca/photos/?tab=album&album\_id=10150692282519407](https://www.facebook.com/handsthefamilyhelpnetwork.ca/photos/?tab=album&album_id=10150692282519407) (source: [Home Depot Makes Autism Playground a Reality - Hands](http://www.thefamilyhelpnetwork.ca/uncategorized/home-depot-makes-autism-playground-a-reality)) ---
**Author:** ![Visionary7903](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/v/45deac/32.png) [@Visionary7903](https://pheromonetalk.com/u/Visionary7903)\ **Post date:** [June 7, 2016, 9:41am UTC](https://pheromonetalk.com/t/agricultural-specialisterne-rural-employment-revolution-for-those-with-autism/50615/658 "2016-06-07T09:41:53Z")
The subject of recent posts has mainly been on Autism-related events and organisations in the state of Michigan. The _Steelcase Foundation_ is a Grand Rapids, Michigan-based nonprofit that believes that quality, accessible public education is paramount to achieving its vision. The _Foundation_ assists its philanthropic partners in generating education initiatives, with a focus primarily in _Steelcase Inc._’s founding community of West Michigan… > [@](#): > > Nick Behnke figured he “probably” could learn to ride a bicycle within a week, although he had tried for years without success. > > The 9-year-old’s autism kept him from learning balance and keeping enough speed. > > Another [child] figured the same… > > The boys took bike-riding lessons the past week… They were among 40 children [including some] with autism… working with University of Michigan students. > > The children were learning on specially engineered bicycles, with training to help them overcome fears and learn to balance themselves. > > “You reduce the fear, and all of a sudden the learning just explodes,” said Dale Ulrich, director of U-M’s Center for Motor Behavior & Pediatric Disabilities. > > He is studying the impact of bike riding on children with special needs. > > Ulrich has organized lessons through Lose the Training Wheels Inc. since 2005. He has found bike riding improves leg strength and increases overall physical activity. > > But he has a good hunch the childhood rite of passage does much more. He has anecdotal evidence it builds confidence, leads children to try other activities, such as soccer, gives kids independence and helps them feel more a part of the community as they ride with family and friends. > > “I’m hoping to show those kinds of outcomes,” he said. > > …The bikes have a roller for a back wheel. The roller is wider in diameter in the center, and tapers toward each end. > > The bikes allow children to wobble without falling but still provide the feel for the required balance. The bikes also have a handle in the back for trainers or others to grab. > > …Nick’s mom, Missy Behnke, of Kalamazoo, wanted him to find independence and have something in common with his friends. > > …“It’s just amazing. That is so amazing,” said Behnke, as her son rode away. “We tried and tried to teach him, but he couldn’t go 3 feet and the bike would tip over.” > > Ulrich said …70 percent of children with autism learn to ride through the Lose the Training Wheels camps. Many of those who do not are younger. > > Trainer Phil Esposito often kept a hand on his trainee’s back instead of the grab handle. He says he thinks success has more to do with strength and body composition than cognition. > > “Some who learn are even nonverbal,” he said. > > About 85 percent of those who do learn are able to continue riding by themselves a year later, Ulrich said. > > The Grand Rapids-based Steelcase Foundation has funded the camp the past three years. Ulrich said he hopes to find funding to keep it going next year. Here is a link to a video on the program: [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XHWdxgfrXA8](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XHWdxgfrXA8) (source: [Special bicycles make childhood rite of passage possible for kids with autism and Down syndrome | MLive.com](http://www.mlive.com/news/grand-rapids/index.ssf/2009/06/special_bicycles_make_childhoo.html)) ---
**Author:** ![Visionary7903](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/v/45deac/32.png) [@Visionary7903](https://pheromonetalk.com/u/Visionary7903)\ **Post date:** [June 8, 2016, 5:30am UTC](https://pheromonetalk.com/t/agricultural-specialisterne-rural-employment-revolution-for-those-with-autism/50615/659 "2016-06-08T05:30:07Z")
The subject of recent posts has mainly been on Autism-related events and organisations in the state of Michigan. The _Kalamazoo Regional Educational Service Agency_ (_RESA_) is a Portage, Michigan-based nonprofit that provides innovative and responsive educational services to educators and learners through leadership, collaboration and support. _RESA_’s _WoodsEdge Learning Center_ is a special education center-based school that provides service to all nine districts within Kalamazoo County, and includes students with Autism Spectrum Disorders from the age of 3… > [@](#): > > Michigan Lt. Gov. Brian Calley toured Kalamazoo RESA’s WoodsEdge Learning Center on Monday and, after spending an hour talking to staff and observing their instruction of students, he said, “I’ve never seen anything like this.” > Calley, who was in Southwest Michigan to speak to the Kalamazoo Rotary Club, stopped by WoodsEdge prior to his presentation. The state-of-the-art school for Kalamazoo County students with autism [and other challenges] …is the first special education facility in the nation to achieve LEED Gold certification in the schools category. > > Calley, who has a daughter with autism spectrum disorder, said he has been in other special education facilities, but what he observed at WoodsEdge is unique. > Kalamazoo RESA Superintendent Ron Fuller agreed and credited the school’s director, Angela Telfer, and Assistant Superintendent for Special Education Laurie Montgomery for their emphasis on instruction. > The expectation – that “all kids can learn” – is at the heart of the program, Fuller said, and they have a regular curriculum in place to support that belief. > Then Fuller turned to Telfer and said, “Kudos to you and your boss (Montgomery) for saying that expectation is non-negotiable.” > Calley noted how rare it is “even just having academics as part of an IEP.” An IEP – Individualized Educational Program – is a written plan for each child who qualifies for special education that is developed in compliance with state and federal laws pertaining to services for students with disabilities. > Earlier this year, the lieutenant governor, from Portland, Mich., supported and signed state legislation authorizing autism insurance reform in Michigan. Those bills were praised by state Senate Majority Leader Randy Richardville as “the single best piece of bipartisan work that I’ve seen in my career.” Here is a link to photos of the _Kalamazoo Regional Educational Service Agency_’s ‘Head Start’ Program for three and four-year-old children: [https://www.facebook.com/35798978385/photos/?tab=album&album\_id=10153653411678386](https://www.facebook.com/35798978385/photos/?tab=album&album_id=10153653411678386) (source: [http://www.kresa.org/site/default.aspx?PageType=3&DomainID=1&ModuleInstanceID=1279&ViewID=047E6BE3-6D87-4130-8424-D8E4E9ED6C2A&RenderLoc=0&FlexDataID=1555&PageID=1&GroupByField=&GroupYear=0&GroupMonth=0&Tag=](http://www.kresa.org/site/default.aspx?PageType=3&DomainID=1&ModuleInstanceID=1279&ViewID=047E6BE3-6D87-4130-8424-D8E4E9ED6C2A&RenderLoc=0&FlexDataID=1555&PageID=1&GroupByField=&GroupYear=0&GroupMonth=0&Tag=)) ---
**Author:** ![Visionary7903](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/v/45deac/32.png) [@Visionary7903](https://pheromonetalk.com/u/Visionary7903)\ **Post date:** [June 9, 2016, 4:46am UTC](https://pheromonetalk.com/t/agricultural-specialisterne-rural-employment-revolution-for-those-with-autism/50615/660 "2016-06-09T04:46:14Z")
The subject of recent posts has mainly been on Autism-related events and organisations in the state of Michigan. _Fraternal Order of Van Buren Eagles #3996_ is a Belleville, Michigan-based non-profit that has a motto of ‘People Helping People’. It works towards bettering its community by working for charities, including Autism fundraisers where 100% of the proceeds go to local schools for Autistic students: Webster Elementary and Van Buren Public Schools… > [@](#): > > Our 2016 Autism Fundraiser is a wrap. It took a lot of planning, organizing and work, but it was worth every bit of effort. We’d like to thank Co-Chairs Rich Cetnarowski, Jr. and Kelley Sherwood for all their exhausting work to make it possible. We had great raffle baskets because of the numerous businesses and individuals that donated items for the cause. A big thank you to all of them! We also want to thank Cats Meow Face Painting, DJ Roy and Rocky Fortune for donating their services to make the Walk and Fundraiser fun. A big thank you to the teachers and students of Belleville and Livonia Schools for their help. > > The table decorations and autism items you made to sell were awesome! Of course, we also want to thank our members who helped sell tickets, cook, set up, shop, and do whatever it took to get things done. Finally, we want to thank everyone for buying tickets, making a donation or attending the event. The children at these schools will be helped by your generosity, as well as their teachers. THANK YOU EVERYONE! (We hope to have a total of how much we raised soon. Here is a link to photos of the _Fraternal Order of Van Buren Eagles #3996_ fundraiser from a few months ago: [https://www.facebook.com/437950419555611/photos/?tab=album&album\_id=1082362601781053](https://www.facebook.com/437950419555611/photos/?tab=album&album_id=1082362601781053) (source: [Autism Fundraiser a Great Success! - VAN BUREN EAGLES #3996](http://www.foe3996.com/blog/autism-fundraiser-a-great-success)) [Previous page](https://pheromonetalk.com/t/agricultural-specialisterne-rural-employment-revolution-for-those-with-autism/50615.md?page=32) [Next page](https://pheromonetalk.com/t/agricultural-specialisterne-rural-employment-revolution-for-those-with-autism/50615.md?page=34)