'Agricultural specialisterne': rural employment revolution for those with Autism

[Visionary7903]

The subject of recent posts has mainly been on Autism-related events and organisations in the state of Wisconsin.

The La Crosse Area Autism Foundation is a La Crosse, Wisconsin-based non-profit dedicated to strengthen the Autism community by connecting families with local resources, education and support while raising awareness in the La Crosse area. The non-profit was formed less than five years ago after the success of the ‘Twisted Maze Run/Walk for Autism’, held at Hidden Trails Corn Maze west of West Salem, Wisconsin…

…Difficulty with communication is a common characteristic across the spectrum.

In 2013 the foundation teamed up with the La Crosse Kiwanis Club to raise more than $5,200 to purchase iPads and software geared toward children with autism.

Pam Groth’s son Reece was among the 12 area children to receive an iPad.

Reece was diagnosed with autism at age 2.

“He had no eye contact, wouldn’t respond to his name and was non-verbal until he was 4,” says Groth.

Reece also has sensory issues, social difficulties and trouble processing certain information.

Thanks to a loving family and a superb team of therapists, Reece is no longer considered severe.

“He had come leaps and bounds since his diagnosis,” notes Groth.

“He is a happy boy, is verbal, loves math and is very active.”

Now 8 years old, Reece is benefiting from the iPad he received from the foundation/Kiwanis initiative.

“The iPad has helped calm him when he needs some alone time. He will listen to music or work with the number applications. He also loves Candy Crush,” adds Groth, pointing out the benefits of the game that requires eye coordination and brain power.

Another favourite is a reading app that sounds out letters and words to help Reece improve his reading skills.

Groth feels that the La Crosse Area Autism Foundation has giver her family much more than just the electronic device.

“It is good to have a support group with families that are going through something similar,” she says.

“We are very fortunate that Wisconsin has these resources available to us, and the La Crosse Area Autism Foundation is working with the county to make things easier for parents to find the resources.”…

Here is a link to photos from a few years ago, where the La Crosse Kiwanis Club, in conjunction with the La Crosse Area Autism Foundation, awarded iPads to 21 children with Autism Spectrum Disorders: https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.614630671883365.1073741825.145621445450959&type=3

(source: Bad Request)

[Visionary7903]

The subject of recent posts has mainly been on Autism-related events and organisations in the state of Wisconsin.

Agnesian Beyond Boundaries of Autism, part of the Fond du Lac, Wisconsin-based nonprofit Agnesian HealthCare, helps children with Autism, and others that present with challenging behaviors, to maximize their independence, and manage their behaviours to be successful in their homes, schools, employment and communities. Agnesian Healthcare recently sponsored a Spirit of Compassion Award, whose recipient volunteers at the Children’s Museum of Fond du Lac — a place that offers a free program (‘Play for All’) to benefit children with Autism…

The 2015 Cheers for Volunteers award winners were selected from a wide field of candidates, each worthy of nomination based on their outstanding contributions to the community through their volunteer activities.

Winners in nine categories will be honoured…

…Spirit of Compassion Award: Jeramie Sweeney

Nominator Cyndi Trent

Jeramie volunteered over 100 hours to the Children’s Museum of Fond du Lac last year by assisting at many events.

Jeramie also developed a relationship with another volunteer — a young adult man with autism.

Together he and Jeramie worked on exhibit and facility repairs and even became friends on Facebook.

This young man learned some handyman skills and gained self-confidence along the way.

Jeramie …is currently an education and social science major at Marian University.

…The passion Jeramie has for the museum and the children is obvious and contagious…

Here is a link to a video on Agnesian Beyond Boundaries of Autism: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZsgHv4jysuU

(sources: http://cmfdl2.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/CMFDL-PlayForAll-Insert_fnl-lowRes.pdf; Cheers for Volunteers: Nine to be honored at banquet)

[Visionary7903]

The subject of recent posts has mainly been on Autism-related events and organisations in the state of Wisconsin.

ASFV is a Menasha, Wisconsin-based nonprofit serving Calumet, Fond du Lac, Outagamie, Waupaca and Winnebago counties. The nonprofit provides information and referral, advocacy, public awareness, education and support for individuals, families, professionals and others who support people with Autism Spectrum Disorders…

Nearly 60 children descended on Xavier High School’s …Field a few days ago for a morning full of punting, tackling and catching.

But the impact of the event went far beyond sports.

Hosted by [ASFV], the 10th annual football camp allowed kids dealing with autism to spend time with the Xavier High School football team, learning the fundamentals of the game and building social skills.

Joe and Julie Bertram of Appleton had three sons — Jonathan, 9, Thomas, 7, and Joseph, 5 — who all attended the camp. Thomas was diagnosed with autism a few years ago, and the Bertrams said events like the football camp help Thomas to gain confidence and have fun with other kids in a safe environment.

“They’re just like other kids,” Julie Bertram said. “When you have an opportunity to do this at a low-key event, it gives the kids an extra push of confidence.”

In the past, she said, Thomas has struggled to attend public sporting events. Many of them have bright lights or loud buzzers, and Thomas can be sensitive to excessive sensory stimulation. But she said after attending the camp, he’s gained the confidence he needs to feel more comfortable in large crowds.

She said he carries a reminder of his accomplishments. “He got a medal two years ago, and he carries it everywhere with him,” Julie Bertram said.

…Joe Bertram said seeing children who are on various parts of the spectrum and interacting with their parents is helpful.

“You see what other parents deal with,” Joe said. “It’s good perspective to see other kids.”

…Diane Nackers, [ASFV] president, said the football camp was a natural choice for the society because many kids who struggle with autism aren’t able to enjoy all of the social activities that other children do. It is one of many events [ASFV] provides for families dealing with the disability.

“We were looking for social opportunities for kids and their families. It’s spawned from a love of football and getting kids together,” Nackers said. “They grow from within. They’re so proud that they can tackle. It’s that inner-pride that is so great.”…

Here is a link to photos of the ‘Day Camp for Children with Autism’ in Appleton, Wisconsin from just over six months ago: https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.961427280585667.1073741875.110993658962371&type=3

(source: Football camp benefits autistic kids)

[Visionary7903]

The subject of recent posts has mainly been on Autism-related events and organisations in the state of Wisconsin.

The Center for Autism and Related Disorders (CARD) recently opened a De Pere, Wisconsin-based local office to help children who are on the Autism Spectrum. The office is the first in Wisconsin for California-based CARD, whose stated mission is to provide the highest quality Applied Behaviour Analysis therapies to children with Autism around the world…

Feelings of joy, pride and relief filled Amanda Drogos as she watched a performance of the musical “Annie” by students from Hemlock Creek Elementary School earlier this month.
Her son Connor, a fourth-grader, was on stage, part of a group of kids in a scene, in front of an audience at the West De Pere High School auditorium.
“That was a big step for him,” said Drogos, noting how 9-year-old Connor originally signed up to be a crew member behind the scenes. “He was up on stage. He did it on his own.”
Compare Drogos’ emotions that night to what she felt one evening six years earlier. Frustration, embarrassment and fear came over her as she carried a screaming 40-pound Connor, who has autism spectrum disorder, out of a shopping mall while being followed by a concerned security officer to her car.
“(Connor) got upset because they had to close the play area at the mall early,” Drogos recalled. “It upset his schedule, so he had trouble handling that. He refused to leave.”
Though Connor’s autism is incurable, intervention and treatment the last several years has alleviated some of his behavioral troubles. A considerable amount of help has come from Jennifer Leanna, who is the director of the new Center for Autism and Related Disorders in downtown De Pere.

…“When he started this journey seven years ago, there wasn’t a lot known about this,” Drogos said of her son, who started showing autistic tendencies before he turned 2.
Autism spectrum disorder typically impedes a person’s social interactions, communication and/or behaviors.
Leanna said a diagnosis for autism isn’t usually made until after symptoms start to show during an infant’s developmental stages. Even then, a diagnosis may be delayed or never made.
Drogos said her son wasn’t diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder until last summer, despite clear signs that something was amiss when he was much younger.
Connor didn’t start talking until he was 3. He wasn’t potty-trained until he was 4. He also was hypersensitive to sensory input, including constant and loud noises.
“Jenny helped us with the symptoms at home, the things we had seen at home, and she also helped us with figuring out what’s the next step, how do we get what we need (for Connor) because I felt like nobody was listening to me at (his) school,” Drogos said. “They weren’t hearing what I was trying to get them to understand.”
Leanna, a West De Pere High School graduate, worked for CARD in California before she returned to her hometown to open the agency’s new office last fall. She frequently consulted with Drogos remotely to help with Connor’s treatment.
Connor has been among the first few clients with whom Leanna regularly works through the local CARD office. Those sessions, based on a personal treatment plan, can be as intensive as 20 to 30 hours per week.
Leanna said the communication and behavior deficiencies endured by many with autism go hand-in-hand.
“A lot of times, the behavior is fueled by the communication delays,” Leanna said. “So, if they can’t access their environment the way they want to and they can’t communicate with people the way they want to, then it causes bigger behavioral issues. If their communication isn’t there, they’re not accessing their social world.”
Leanna said sessions with clients run the gamut from casual to intense treatment, depending on the severity of a client’s autism. She works to improve social delays, fine motor skills and problem solving using CARD’s curriculum-based program.
Her sessions with clients are generally done in home for now. That will change when CARD moves into a larger facility for center-based treatment, with additional staff, later this year.
Leanna also holds monthly training for parents of autistic kids.
The ultimate goal with the CARD program is recovery from delays brought on by autism.
“We want fast acquisition of skills,” Leanna said. “We want to see (children) get up to grade level, get up to age level of functioning as fast as possible … (but) some kids do take longer, though. So, we want them in our program as long as it’s effective for them. Then, once it stops being effective for them, we would (phase) them out or figure out what’s going on.”
Drogos knows her son will never be cured of autism.
“This isn’t a disease,” she said. “His wires are just a little bit different.”
However, the De Pere mom who dreaded taking a young Connor out in public because of his propensity for temper tantrums has been encouraged by the strides he’s made socially. She calls him a high-functioning kid who has done well in school and fits in with his fourth-grade class at Hemlock Creek, where he started in September after the family moved back to De Pere.
“If you look at my son, that’s a normal 9-year-old, running around with glasses on,” Drogos said. “He loves LEGOs, he loves Nerf guns, he loves everything superheroes, just like a normal kid.”
Where Connor still needs help, however, is in socializing among peers and controlling his fidgety behavior. Drogos said some adaptations were made in Connor’s classroom to help him focus during the day, including a seat that allows him to wobble at his desk and having Velcro underneath his desk so he can rub his fingers on it.
And, Drogos is hopeful Connor’s willingness to go on stage for a school play is a sign of a kid who may be done acting out in public.
“He’s learned to function in our society,” Drogos said.

Here is a link to materials to get familiarised with The Children’s Museum of Green Bay before the recently-held Sensory Friendly Night, held in conjunction with CARD: https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B9-adj5rJRaNRmI3NUdRdTVyZk0/view?pref=2&pli=1

(source: http://www.greenbaypressgazette.com/story/news/local/2016/03/15/new-center-de-pere-helps-autism/81593320/)

[Visionary7903]

The subject of recent posts has mainly been on Autism-related events and organisations in the state of Wisconsin.

The Autism Society of Greater Madison (ASGM), also known as the Autism Society of South Central Wisconsin, serves a greater community with a great mission — to improve the lives of individuals and families in southcentral and southwest Wisconsin affected by Autism Spectrum Disorders. In recent years ASGM has teamed up with Children’s Theater of Madison (CTM) to present a slightly altered production of ‘Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day’, meant for ages four and older…

For an autistic child, the theater can be challenging. Loud noises startle. Lighting changes overwhelm. Many things the average theatergoing public takes for granted, from waiting patiently in line to sitting quietly in one’s seat, can prove difficult.

But Susannah Peterson, executive director of the Autism Society’s South Central Wisconsin chapter, knows that these kids love storytelling, too.

She set out to find a way for local children on the autism spectrum to enjoy theatrical productions much like their neurotypical peers do. “I think there’s so much about the theater that’s transformative,” Peterson says.

“I wanted kids on the spectrum to be able to take that magic with them into their daily lives and perhaps even be inspired by a performance to participate on their own one day.”

Last summer, she reached out to Children’s Theater of Madison, which jumped at the idea of creating a “sensory friendly” performance for autistic kids.

“Our mission is to create vibrant theater experiences… for young people and their communities, but what communities are we talking about?” asks Erica Berman, CTM’s director of education and community engagement.

“The community of people with autism is one that’s not always granted access.” Together, the two organizations tailored a performance of Alexander & the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day to this young audience.

Based on the popular book of the same name, the show tells the story of a boy who experiences an awful day, only to discover that tomorrow brings better things.

“Alexander has some challenges throughout the day, and we know that youth with autism have to deal with that day in and day out,” Peterson says.

The sensory-friendly presentation, which takes place on March 7, includes a variety of adjustments.

The lights will be dimmed throughout and the volume will be lowered.

Families are welcome to bring food such as gluten-free snacks, which are important to many in the autism community. There will also be “ushers”: trained workers with autistic children.

Fidget toys will be available, along with a quiet room families can visit throughout the show.

“We want kids to be able to take in five minutes, if that’s what they can handle, or the entire show, or anywhere in between,” Peterson explains.

Since families with children on the spectrum face many significant expenses, medical and otherwise, tickets for the March 7 show are being sold at a reduced price of $7.

“Our goal is for them to step into an environment where there’s no judgment, where everything has been thought out for them,” Berman adds.

…The partners also want to offer two performances at two different shows next year.

Other projects on the horizon include drama classes for autistic children and eventually a camp.

Peterson wants this idea to catch on with other Madison arts organizations.

Children are invited to come an hour early to “meet their seat” and get comfortable with the theater before the show begins.

These seats can be reserved online.

Here is a link to a video from a couple of years ago of a performance of the play for the Autism Society of Greater Madison, by the Children’s Theatre of Madison, at the Overture Center in Madison, Wisonsin: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_PWOemzdL5g

(source: Children’s Theater of Madison creates an innovative version of “Alexander & the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day” for kids on the autism spectrum - Isthmus | Madison, Wisconsin; Production at Overture gets a ‘sensory friendly’ makeover for families with autism | Living in Madison | host.madison.com)

[Visionary7903]

The subject of recent posts has mainly been on Autism-related events and organisations in the state of Wisconsin.

ASFV is a Menasha, Wisconsin-based nonprofit serving Calumet, Fond du Lac, Outagamie, Waupaca and Winnebago counties. The nonprofit provides information and referral, advocacy, public awareness, education and support for individuals, families, professionals and others who support people with Autism Spectrum Disorders…

…autism is a treatable, lifelong, neurological disorder that significantly affects how a person perceives the world, interacts with other people and communicates. “It affects three things: behavior, social interaction and communication,” says Neenah resident Hallie Shopbell, mother to a child with autism and president of the ASFV, a non-profit organization who provides information and programs to support people with autism in the community.

…Children who are diagnosed through educational assessments are often given Individual Education Plans, or IEPs, and supported by professionals within their school district. “Parents are sometimes not aware of the services available to them through the school district,” says Shopbell.

…“Some believe that children with autism do not have emotions and cannot get attached to people,” says Shopbell. “And that is simply not true.” She and her husband have two sons, four-year-old Sam and six-year-old Eli, who was medically diagnosed with Pervasive Developmental Disorder—Not Otherwise Specified (PDD-NOS), a form of autism, at the age of two.

…Since their son’s diagnosis, the Shopbells have done speech and occupational therapy with Eli. They have used additional resources, such as football camps and Monkey Joes in Appleton, sponsored by ASFV, horse therapy through Beaming, Inc., and community-sponsored events such as Empower Me! Camp and Camp Hope.
Eli is currently a first grader at Coolidge School in Neenah. For most high-functioning children with autism, the school environment can give them the social interaction they need.
“It is hard for me to remember all of the struggles because our son has come so far,” says Hallie. “We have gone from sign language to speaking and we typically don’t have meltdowns anymore.”

…Many parents experience harsh looks and comments in public places as they are trying to deal with their autistic child’s behavior. “Because most high-functioning children with autism do not visually appear any different than neuro-typical children, it is often hard to distinguish until something triggers a meltdown,” says Tiffany Niederwerfer, mom to Evan, a five-year-old with autism. Tiffany and her husband recently relocated Madison, but raised Evan in Appleton prior to the move.
Because the disorder is sensory and not cognitive, things that a neuro-typical person does not recognize affect an autistic person. For example, a shopping trip can quickly become overwhelming because of the humming of fluorescent lights or squeaking of shopping carts. “It is not that these children are spoiled, it is that their neurons are not processing the environment,” Niederwerfer explains.
People with autism can respond by stimming, a repetitive body movement that self-stimulates one or more senses in a regulated manner. Stims include hand flapping, rocking or repeating phrases. Others respond by suddenly running away, which can be very frightening for parents in a public place. “If you see a parent struggling with a child, you don’t have to say anything,” says Niederwerfer. “But a friendly, compassionate smile goes a long way.”..

Here is a link to photos from an ASFV event at the Winnebago County 4H Horse & Pony Project from a few years ago: https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10151141003324993.499105.172720834992&type=3

(source: 403 Forbidden)

[Visionary7903]

The subject of recent posts has mainly been on Autism-related events and organisations in the state of Wisconsin.

Easter Seals Wisconsin is a Madison, Wisconsin-based non-profit whose mission is to increase independence, maximize opportunities, minimize barriers, and enhance the quality of life for people with disabilities, including Autism Spectrum Disorders. Easter Seals Wisconsin’s ‘Outagamie County Disability HelpLine’, based in Appleton, Wisconsin, provides critical resource referrals and support programs for northeast area residents with disabilities and works closely with the community…

It’s well-known that music can have an effect on listeners. But Jill Gretzinger, Coordinator for the Outagamie County Disability HelpLine, was still amazed while watching certified music therapist Sara Devine work with seventeen energetic children with autism during an Autism Family Network event …sponsored by Easter Seals Wisconsin. Not only did the children remain engaged in the music throughout the event, they listened to and followed directions, shared with one another and had fun!

This great event left staff wondering how the opportunity to use music to improve social skills might be increased…
…[A grant was requested] to provide music enrichment classes to kids with autism and other disabilities with a goal of improving their social skills. The grant provides funding to provide 6 six-week classes and four community drumming events. It will cover most costs for participants, with families paying only $10 for the entire six week class. Three of the classes were to be offered by Easter Seals Wisconsin… The first 6-week class offered by Easter Seals Wisconsin was designed for 4-8 year olds with autism. It started in September and ran through most of October.

Katie Ringbauer, whose five year old daughter, Addison, participated, was excited by the opportunity to enroll her daughter in the class, something she had always wanted to do, but had found cost prohibitive. “We have always tried to tie music into everything Addison does because she is so receptive to it,” says Katie. “This opportunity was amazing for Addison and we are very thankful for the chance we received to take the class! The social, emotional, and communication she learned in class will be a huge benefit to her.”

Here is a link to photos of some music therapy kids groupwork with Expressive Therapies’ Sara Devine: https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.932339816788215.1073741831.590490700973130&type=3

(source: https://eastersealswisconsin.com/main/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/Winter-Spring-2016-newsletter.pdf)

[Visionary7903]

The subject of recent posts has mainly been on Autism-related events and organisations in the state of Wisconsin.

Reaching Your Potential, based in La Crosse, Wisconsin, provides in-home, intensive Applied Behaviour Analysis therapy up to 30 hours a week. RYP, which serves the greater La Crosse vicinity including Eau Claire County and the Chippewa Valley, utilises a home-based approach that combines evidenced-based and developmentally-driven therapies and various proven techniques…

As a label, ‘a child with autism’ is as broad as ‘a child.’ Just as ‘a child’ can be applied to children as diverse as a pale and bookish boy to a tree-climbing girl with scabs on her scabs, so too are children with autism diverse. This is why autism is commonly framed as the autism spectrum. The colors of character and cognitive abilities in children with autism are like the colors in the rainbow, at times distinctly differently and at other times, subtly so. If there’s any consistent commonality, it might be in the mothers of children with autism, who serve as locksmiths, advocates, and spokeswomen in serving their children.

Traci Regis-Olson is one of these mothers. If you were to chat with Morgan, her five-year old son, you might be struck by a gargantuan memory and an aptitude with numbers that might make a computer jealous.

…Morgan surpassing expectations doesn’t mean that there aren’t challenges. “…Getting himself dressed is also an issue. He still needs help with that. Also, expressing himself when he’s mad or upset or sad is hard. He can’t name those emotions. He’ll say, ‘Don’t look at me. Don’t talk to me.’ It means, ‘I’m in the middle of something and I need to work through this by myself.’ He’s making progress.”

However, as with every child, there are good times to balance the bad and with Morgan, there are surprises outside of the expected spectrum.

…Another area autistic student who loves school is the …son of the president of the Chippewa Valley Autism Society, Sherri Linderman.

…Linderman believes therapy is essential.

…That essentiality of therapy was something Regis-Olson also realized, as well as her role as an advocate. Regis-Olson said, “One of the things that I’ve discovered about myself is the necessity of being an advocate for your child. I never pictured myself as a fierce advocate, but you have to be, even if it’s within your own family. There’s a waiting list and even Morgan had to wait a year, but now it’s up to two years. These kids need it. Morgan’s many gains and strides are attributable to the therapy.”

Stephanie Moerke, Clinic Supervisor for Reaching your Potential and one of Morgan’s therapists, said, “Therapy is a difference maker for children with autism. All children with autism make gains through therapy. It works because it’s very specific to the child, is one on one, and based on their interests and strengths. Since it’s inhome, we have the support of the family and that also makes a huge difference.”…

Here is a link to photos of the nonprofit *Autism Society of *Chippewa Valley’s ‘4th Annual Spectrum Shuffle’ fundraiser event in Altoona, Wisconsin from a few years ago, an event which included 10K and 5K races and a one-mile fun run and walk: Spectrum Shuffle 2013 by wslinderman | Photobucket

(source: http://www.5iveforwomen.com/5iveforwomen/MagazineIssues/FiveforWomenMar_Apr2013.pdf)

[Visionary7903]

The subject of recent posts has mainly been on Autism-related events and organisations in the state of Wisconsin.

The Autism Society of Wisconsin (ASW) is a Menasha, Wisconsin-based non-profit whose mission is to improve the lives of all affected by Autism in Wisconsin. ASW sponsors an annual conference, a free quarterly newsletter, maintains a Wisconsin directory of people offering information/assistance, provides information and referral, and organises various events for children with Autism…

A new room at the Resch Center will be an oasis of peace and quiet during hockey goal celebrations and other noisy moments — and that’s music to Jill Stenson’s ears.
As the mother of a 5-year-old on the autism spectrum, she knows the assault of sound and light that delight most spectators at sporting events and concerts can create nightmares for kids and families dealing with autism. That’s why she was thrilled Wednesday to learn the Resch will soon unveil a “Sensory Safe Zone” for people who need a break from the sensory bombardment.
“That would be an amazing addition! Before Elliott was diagnosed, and for about the first year he was in therapy, we didn’t like to go to things because he would get overloaded so quickly,” she said. “To have an area right there to give kids a break would have allowed us to attend more things.”
PMI Entertainment Group, which operates the Resch and two adjacent facilities also owned by Brown County, will announce on Thursday that it is dedicating a small section of the complex near the Cellcom Staircase as a place where families can go to help an overstimulated child calm down. The Safe Zone will first be available during Sesame Street Live Nov. 28 and 29 …PMI spokesman Terry Charles said.
PMI officials learned at a recent conference of a Michigan facility that offers a similar room for customers, and decided quickly that it would be well-received in the Green Bay area, Charles said.
“We think there are probably some people who won’t even attempt to come here” because their children couldn’t handle the lights and noise without a place to take a break, he said.
Quiet zones are typically outfitted with items that can help soothe an agitated child, said Linda Blohowiak, vice president for programs at ASPIRO, a Green Bay-based agency that assists people who have disabilities.
She said lava lamps, fish tanks, comfortable furniture, soft music and weighted blankets have been shown to help calm autistic children who have been exposed to bright fluorescent lights and loud music.
“It’s great that the Resch Center is trying to be sensitive to people’s needs,” she said.

The Resch …hosts a range of shows and sporting events. It is the home arena for Green Bay …hockey and University of Wisconsin-Green Bay men’s basketball…

Here is a link to photos from a recent ‘Autism Night’ organised by the Autism Society of Wisconsin at the Resch Center in Green Bay, Wisconsin: https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10153318739071152.1073741834.185167926151&type=3

(source: http://www.greenbaypressgazette.com/story/news/2015/11/11/resch-center-unveil-sensory-safe-zone/75608836/)

[Visionary7903]

The subject of recent posts has mainly been on Autism-related events and organisations in the state of Wisconsin.

Kimberly, Wisconsin-based Connections Autism Treatment Center provides behavioral (ABA), verbal (VB-MAP) and social skills services to children on the Autism Spectrum. Connections is committed to helping each child reach their greatest potential…

…One-on-one behavioral therapy between the child and the therapist is an important aspect of treatment, but oftentimes it’s hard to replicate the vast variety of social situations in such a small, intimate setting.
Socialization with other children and adults, both with and without disabilities, can help children utilize the skills they’ve learned in therapy and apply them to everyday situations they encounter.
Socialization can begin in the home or at other familiar places for these children.
Sometimes inviting friends over for a play date is a simple way to incorporate interaction with others in a non-threatening environment for the child.
Eventually these early interactions will lay the foundation for interactions in the future, which will most likely take place with unfamiliar faces and places.
Another resource for parents of children with disabilities is center-based therapy.
In this setting, children are often taught skills in one-on-one instruction, and then are able to practice these newly learned sets of skills in small classroom-like settings with other kids in their age group.
Jessica Meyer, co-owner and center director at Connections, a center-based autism treatment provider in Kimberly, understands the importance of bringing kids with disabilities to a center-based treatment program.
“A center-based therapy center provides one-on-one therapy with the added benefit of small group social skills training in a center specifically designed to enhance learning for children with disabilities,” said Meyer.
“Resources are more extensive, there is oversight of staff and children can engage in play with one another while immediately generalizing the skills they’ve been taught individually.”
Outside socialization and center-based therapy also provide a chance for the entire family to spend some valuable time outside of the house.
Oftentimes, families raising a child with disabilities sacrifice a lot of their time in order to find and maintain quality treatment for their children.
Sometimes families even compromise their privacy at home when scheduling the necessary in-home therapy for their children.
Increasing a child’s social interactions truly helps promote and maintain their mental health, as well as keeps everyone in the family’s well-being balanced…

Here is a link to photos of Connections Autism Treatment Center kids at a picnic at the park and then playing a game of golf, from a couple of years ago: https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.544744032262558.1073741830.194406633962968&type=3

(source: The importance of socialization for kids with disabilities - Nature’s Pathways Magazine)

[Visionary7903]

The subject of recent posts has mainly been on Autism-related events and organisations in the state of Wisconsin.

To the east, part of the South Bend, Indiana nonprofit LOGAN Community Resources, Inc. is the Autism Learning Center - Kalamazoo area. The Kalamazoo, Michigan-based Center offers children with Autism Spectrum Disorders the proven benefits of an Applied Behaviour Analysis program…

“If you asked me why I chose to study social work I would tell you it is because I believe in the inherent value of people and I want a career that is focused on helping others reach their full potential.
I have never assumed that my future career should be happy or joyous: fulfilling and meaningful, most certainly, but not necessarily happy. Many of my classmates voice a similar outlook when we discussed their internships, places where they knew we were doing important work, but at the same time felt drained and discouraged by the oftentimes overwhelming need they saw coupled with minimal change from all their efforts.
With the above mindset firmly in place I entered the brightly painted walls of the [LOGAN Autism Learning Center – Southwest Michigan], anticipating plenty of hard work with few tangible results trickling down along the way. I was completely unprepared for the overflow of utter joy and happiness I encountered at the Center.
Every therapist I met talked about how much they loved their work. At first I was skeptical, but as I observed the therapists in action I was blown away by their outpouring of enthusiasm and love for the children they work with on a daily basis.
The staff embrace the uniqueness of each child enrolled at the center, creating and implementing individualized learning plans that are customized for the specific needs of every child. It is this one-size-does-not-fit-all approach that allows the therapists to view each student through an individualized lens giving them both clarity of purpose and the chance to focus on the unique and inherent value of every autistic mind. It is this combination of individualized focus, along with the inherent joy held by all children, that makes the a place of meaningful work, happiness and joy.
As an intern I am eternally grateful that I am getting the chance to be a part of it.”

This post was submitted by Kimberly Kim …a summer intern at [the state’s other such center, LOGAN Autism Learning Center – Southwest Michigan].

Here is a link to a video on the LOGAN Autism Learning Center in Kalamazoo, Michigan: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=keR7TlRm1gs

(source: 403 Forbidden)

[Visionary7903]

The subject of recent posts has mainly been on Autism-related events and organisations in the state of Wisconsin.

To the east, The Children’s Center of Wayne County is a Detroit, Michigan-based non-profit that strives to help children and families shape their own futures, and carve out a path that’s brighter than even they imagine. The Children’s Center’s Autism Services program offers comprehensive diagnostic evaluations, treatment programs, and parent support for families of children with Autism Spectrum Disorders…

When Victoria Sova learned at age 4 how to let others know what she wanted by pointing to pictures in a special book, her mother, Courtney Sova, was thankful to finally be able to communicate with her daughter, who has autism.

Courtney got more good news when she heard Medicaid coverage for autism therapy in Michigan will continue until age 21, a full 15 years longer than the previous age cutoff of age 6. The extended age limit took effect Jan. 1.

Victoria turned 6 in August, a few months before the extended age limit took effect in Michigan, but she was able to continue therapy with no break under a special extension. Courtney says Medicaid is the only way the family can afford therapy for Victoria.

“It gives me a lot of relief,” Courtney says. “For the first few years, I really struggled to find things that were covered (by Medicaid).”

For four years after Victoria’s diagnosis of autism, at age 18 months, Courtney did everything she could think of to get the services her child needed. Besides seeking clinical help via applied behavior analysis therapy, also known as ABA, Courtney attended sessions set up for parents of children with autism, pored through online guidelines about special needs children, and gathered tips from therapists for how to help and support an autistic child.

Courtney saw Victoria make progress through her ABA therapy at The Children’s Center in Detroit. ABA is the therapy deemed most effective for autism. It seemed to work: After the first month of treatment, Courtney’s “hyper” child could sit still for two minutes, and Victoria subsequently learned the hand motions to the song, “If You’re Happy and You Know It.”…

Here is a link to a video on The Children’s Center of Wayne County: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hakC2-7tVaM

(source: Accessing Care for Autism - Hour Detroit - April 2016 - Detroit, MI)

[Visionary7903]

The subject of yesterday’s post was The Children’s Center of Wayne County, a Detroit, Michigan-based non-profit that strives to help children and families shape their own futures, and carve out a path that’s brighter than even they imagine. The Children’s Center’s Autism Services program offers comprehensive diagnostic evaluations, treatment programs, and parent support for families of children with Autism Spectrum Disorders.

The Lyle A. Torrant Center is a Jackson, Michigan-based public school operated by the Jackson County Intermediate School District, serving youth with developmental disabilities, including Spectrum Disorders. Students are referred there through the local school district Special Education teams…

Sally and Craig Johnson have seen their fair share of looks from people when their 3-year-old son, Chase, has a meltdown in public.
They know what goes through people’s minds: what a spoiled brat, what lousy parents.
It’s hard not to get defensive, but the Johnsons have learned to let it go.
Misunderstandings are part of daily life for parents of an autistic child, along with a host of other issues. Autistic children often have impaired social skills, communication problems and unusual, repetitive behaviors.
“It’s very challenging,” Sally Johnson said. “You have to be more flexible. You have to adjust your life for it.”
The Johnsons are not alone.

…The Lyle A. Torrant Center – a countywide special-education school – opened a new full-day class last year for the Autistic Impaired (AI) and will open another one in September, making four total.

…Heather Martin, Jackson Autism Support Network president and mother of a 6-year-old autistic boy, said it is crucial that early childhood programs are available.
“It’s scary. It’s a lifelong disorder these kids are going to have to live with,” she said. “If people don’t get the help, it’s going to be harder as the child gets older.”
Teachers who work with autistic students at the Torrant Center are trained in Treatment and Education of Autistic and related Communication-handicapped CHildren – TEACCH – and Picture Exchange Communication System – PECS. Both are teaching methods, which focus on visual learning and accomplishing tasks.
Karlyn Blank, a teacher at the center, said children display negative behaviors, like yelling and slapping, when they can’t communicate what they want.
“We probably see less negative behavior since we’ve been using PECS and the TEACCH program,” Blank said.

…Despite the challenges, raising an autistic child has been a blessing, Sally Johnson said.
“It’s amazing how your attitude changes,” she said.
Chase attends the Torrant Center and receives speech therapy there.
He’s made significant progress, with improved verbal skills and more empathy toward others. Though, he still has autistic tendencies.
He will attend Flora List School in the fall and continue his speech therapy through the ISD.
“He tries to talk to kids, but he doesn’t look them in the eye,” Sally Johnson said.
Chase continues to line up trains and toys in a row, concentrates when watching TV – as if memorizing what he’s watching – and has unexpected meltdowns.
However, the Johnsons don’t let autism define Chase – he just has some quirks – they said.
“What they do is really no different than us. It’s just at a higher level,” Sally said.
Martin said it’s important to continue to raise awareness about autism so there are more possibilities for those who have it…

Here is a link to photos of some community outings from last year, including the Jackson Autism Support Network Run/Walk: https://www.facebook.com/548061821900503/photos/?tab=album&album_id=1019013514805329
https://www.facebook.com/657744210922187/photos/?tab=album&album_id=657782720918336

(source: http://www.mlive.com/news/index.ssf/2008/03/parents_schools_work_to_cope_w.html)

[Visionary7903]

The subject of the last post was The Children’s Center of Wayne County, a Detroit, Michigan-based non-profit that strives to help children and families shape their own futures, and carve out a path that’s brighter than even they imagine. The Children’s Center’s Autism Services program offers comprehensive diagnostic evaluations, treatment programs, and parent support for families of children with Autism Spectrum Disorders.

Hope Network is a Grand Rapids, Michigan-based non-profit that provides neuro-rehabilitation, behavioural health, developmental, and support services that give people a chance to overcome life’s challenges, including Autism Spectrum Disorders. The Hope Network Center for Autism is where Autism Spectrum Disorders are diagnosed and treated, providing comprehensive outpatient treatment with an emphasis on evidence-based, early intervention, and Applied Behaviour Analysis therapies with children as young as age two…

Hope Network leaders open The Hope Network Center for Autism today, the state’s first all-inclusive center devoted to treating [Autism].

…[The] facility is intended to provide parents with a one-stop outpatient site for diagnosis, assessment and treatment in a setting designed to calm and focus over-stimulated autistic children.

…Children with autism have difficulty with communication, social interaction and, often, everyday activities. Because of that, everything about the …facility was designed for minimal stimulation.
Muted pastel colors and soft lighting soothe the senses; curved walls help little hands find their way, and noise-reducing fabrics and sound-absorbing backings help filter out background noise.

One of the center’s specially-designed treatment rooms has been ground zero for the progress that behavior analyst Conny Raaymakers has made with 3-year-old Brandon Wildey …who was diagnosed at 17 months of age.
The two have been working six hours a week on Brandon’s nonverbal communication because he does not yet speak.
On Wednesday, Raaymakers worked to prompt Brandon to use a picture card to ask to her to play his favorite DVD of the popular Nick Jr. cable television show “Yo Gabba Gabba.”
“He has no way of communicating what he needs, so we’re teaching him to do it with pictures,” Raaymakers said.
While Brandon worked with Raaymakers, his 2-year-old sister, Alana, was busy in a nearby playroom with their father, Andrew Wildey.
Wildey said life has been easier since his son has learned to use flash cards to communicate basic necessities like “food,” “drink,” “tired” and “sleep.”
“It’s nice that he can get his therapy here where everyone understands his sensory needs,” Wildey said. “A lot of things a typical family will take for granted – like just a trip to the grocery store – can be devastating for him because the bright lights and sounds are so overwhelming.”

In addition to applied behavioral therapy, the new center offers occupational therapy, dentistry, speech therapy, neuro-psychological evaluation, residential services and medical exams.
The building features a state-of-the art diagnostic playroom, a gym, classrooms, a motor-sensory room and model living unit complete with a full kitchen, bedroom and washer and dryer…

Here is a link to a video shown at The Hope Network’s annual gala from about 18 months ago, an inspiring story of a little boy with Autism: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-TDfkg-fh8s

(source: Hope Network opens state’s 1st all-inclusive autism center; open house today | MLive.com)

[Visionary7903]

The subject of the last couple of posts has been on Autism-related events and organisations in the state of Michigan.

The Kalamazoo Autism Society is a Kalamazoo, Michigan-based nonprofit whose mission is to improve the lives of all affected by Autism through support, resources and awareness. The non-profit organises an annual Walk fundraiser, whose goal is to increase awareness of what Autism is, create opportunities for those affected by Autism, and foster acceptance so that those living with Autism are fully included in their own community…

…For …the crowd of about 600 who took part in the three-mile [11th Annual Walk About Talk About Autism fundraiser] …the event was an opportunity to come together to raise awareness about autism.

…Saturday’s walk, which is sponsored by the Kalamazoo …Autism Society, began with the release of hundreds of balloons into the sunshine-filled sky…

Participants were treated to lunch and dessert following the walk, which is a fundraising event for the autism society.

Trina Wood, president of the autism society and one of the event’s founders, said the walk is an event meant to raise awareness about autism, as well as community understanding.

Now, in it’s 11th year, Wood said attendance at the annual walk has grown each year.

Wood said she started the event with a friend after Woods’ two-year-old son was diagnosed with autism with the hope of putting on a family-fun event so that she and others like her who have children with autism “didn’t have to feel so isolated.”

Among those who took part in the walk Saturday was Sara Widerberg, whose 4-year-old son, Cooper, has autism.

“We just like all of the support and everybody coming together,” Widerberg said.

Here is a link to photos of the Kalamazoo Autism Society’s annual fundraiser in Portage, Michigan from last year: https://www.facebook.com/611661655523819/photos/?tab=album&album_id=884070571616258

(source: Hundreds take part in Walk About Talk About Autism fundraiser at Portage’s Celery Flats | MLive.com)

[Visionary7903]

The subject of the last few posts has been on Autism-related events and organisations in the state of Michigan.

The West Bloomfield, Michigan-based Kaufman Childrens Center, for Speech, Language, Sensory-Motor, and Social Connections, Inc. (KCC) provides individual speech and language therapy, occupational therapy, sensory integration therapy, social skills instruction, and applied verbal behaviour therapy for children from birth. It offers a warm, family-friendly environment, complete with private observation rooms where parents can follow along with their children’s progress…

Carey Grandon wept with joy the day 5-year-old Noah asked her to read him a book.

…Noah had been locked in his own world, not able to communicate. For years, Carrie had watched what she calls her son’s “odd behaviors,” knowing there was something wrong, but not knowing how to help him.

…“Noah could watch a ceiling fan for hours, line up the peas on his plate or scream at the sound of some of his toys. I needed help to reach him.” [Grandon said.]

The Grandons found help at the Kaufman Children’s Center for speech, language, sensory motor and social connections of West Bloomfield Township, which has been providing therapy for children since 1992. Carol Afflerbaugh, director of autism programs, began working with Noah when he was 3 years old.

“Noah was not using spoken words, so we began teaching him sign language,” Afflerbaugh said. “We teach children to ask for their favorite things, like a ball or candy. Noah got the signs quickly.”

Within a year, Noah was signing words and phrases. His mom created a chart of signs for the extended family, so they could communicate with her son. One day she used sign language to ask if he would rather have her read a book to him or listen to music. He signed back, asking her to read a book.

“I cried,” Grandon said. “We could finally communicate. It was a huge breakthrough for us.”

Afflerbaugh says most autistic children are able to learn sign language because the teacher can repeatedly model the sign in their hand. The next step is using sign language as a bridge to verbally communicate, associating sounds and words with the signs. Noah loves balls, so she paired sounds and words with the sign for ball.

“Noah is doing very well,” Afflerbaugh said. “Now at age 5, he can speak in phrases and sentences. We have an excellent rate of success using sign language as a base to develop verbal skills. It helps children make the connection they could not make on their own.”

Grandon is thrilled with Noah’s progress and has the same hopes and dreams most parents have for their children.

“I want him to be happy, independent and enjoy life,” Grandon said. “I hope he can find a real passion that he can develop, and I think it will center on cars. He loves cars.”

Here is a link to photos of a visit by Elmo and Cookie Monster to the Kaufman Children’s Center from earlier in the year, with the kids getting a sneak peek of Sesame Street Live’s ‘Let’s Dance’ show in advance of the production’s sensory-friendly performance: https://www.facebook.com/kaufmanchildrenscenter/photos/?tab=album&album_id=10153594225127599

(source: (‘News @ 9’ debuts Monday – The Oakland Press))

[Visionary7903]

The subject of the last few posts has been on Autism-related events and organisations in the state of Michigan.

The Autism Alliance of Michigan (AAoM) is a Southfield, Michigan-based nonprofit whose mission is to lead unprecedented collaboration that will improve the quality of life for individuals with Autism and their loved ones through education, comprehensive services, coordinated advocacy, dedication to community, and navigation. Funds raised from the nonprofit’s annual Walk fundraiser provide critical financial support that allows AAoM to offer its programs and services to individuals and families living with Autism throughout the state of Michigan…

To celebrate the launch of two new programs, the Autism Alliance of Michigan, located in Southfield, is holding its first-ever Autism …Walk at 8:30 a.m. June 28 at the Detroit Zoo, 8450 W. 10 Mile Road in Royal Oak.

Autism spectrum disorder is a range of neurodevelopmental disorders that can include social impairments and difficulties with communication. According to its website, AAoM aims to improve the quality of life of people with autism and their loved ones.

According to Dr. Colleen Allen, CEO of AAoM, the organization recently launched two programs: the Michigan Navigator Program and a campaign to eliminate stereotypes.

The Michigan Navigator Program, Allen said, connects the parents and families of people with autism to services and support they may need.

“Our goal is to empower families with the right information they need to make good choices about care and help them understand what exists in their community,” Allen said.

The program takes information from people’s health insurance and uses their ZIP code and school district to connect them with programs and services local to them.

A new awareness campaign is aimed at eliminating negative connotations surrounding autism and helping the surrounding community to understand “person-first language,” Allen said.

“When you refer to a person with autism, you want to say ‘person with autism, child with autism,’” Allen said. “We want to kick the ‘autistic.’ Some parents get really upset when they see that. This is a person first. Their disorder shouldn’t define who they are.”

Allen said the zoo was chosen for the walk because of a previous partnership through which staff and volunteers have received extensive autism education and safety training. The Detroit Zoo is an autism-friendly environment, providing visual guides for guests.

“We want all of our guests to have the best possible zoo experience, so we have been working through a series of initiatives addressing the needs of various audiences to make that happen,” Alexis Means, guest relations director for the Detroit Zoological Society, said in a news release. “This is part of our effort to make the Detroit Zoo great in every way for many audiences.”

Mojo in the Morning’s Shannon Murphy and Calvin Gee will emcee the event. After the walk, attendees are invited to enjoy the zoo for the remainder of the day…

Here is a link to a video on the Autism Alliance of Michigan from last year: AAOM Making a Difference for Claire

(source: Group to host first Autism Hero Family Walk | C & G Newspapers)

[Visionary7903]

The subject of recent posts has mainly been on Autism-related events and organisations in the state of Michigan.

The Central Autism Assessment & Treatment (CAAT) Center, located at Central Michigan University’s Mount Pleasant campus, is a multidisciplinary student training center that provides comprehensive, evidence-based assessment and treatment for children and adolescents with Autism Spectrum Disorders. The Center is funded by the Michigan Department of Community Health through the Michigan Legislature…

A new program to help kids with autism in Michigan.

…Central Michigan University is addressing the problem with a new Autism Assessment and Treatment Clinic.

“We are, as far as I know, are one of only 2 centers that are specifically training students in terms of both assessment and treatment,” says Dr. Christie Nutkins, Clinic Director at Central Michigan University Psychology Department.

This new clinic opened last week and is helping kids under the age of 6 with autism. “It’ll teach children, specifically how to get new skills, how to talk, how to interact with people, any deficits there’s this evidence based way to support them in their growth,” says Robert Wyse, CMU grad student.

…CMU sees this as the perfect opportunity to get their students involved and working towards growing this new clinic. “As a graduate student we go through all these classes but classes can only take you so far, and I’ve already noticed just in the short time that we’ve been open its already impacting my attitude and outlook on my course work,” says Wyse.

One of the benefits of the new clinic is that they have these treatment rooms where the students at CMU can stand on one side of the 2 way mirror to watch the kids go through therapy. “To know that we’re increasing the odds that they may be able to communicate with their family members, to be able to do a lot more things independently is really entrancingly motivating for us but it also can be very invaluable for families,” says Dr. Nutkins.

The million dollar clinic was awarded to CMU by the Department of Community Health.

Here is a link to a video on CMU’s Central Autism Assessment and Treatment Center: https://www.youtube.com/watch?list=PLbq4qjcWor-Up3_kJ_s8bgUHIkShYSM8D&v=nMaYzRL9FeI

(source: CMU Welcomes New Autism Clinic - Northern Michigan’s News Leader)

[Visionary7903]

The subject of recent posts has mainly been on Autism-related events and organisations in the state of Michigan.

The HOPE Center, based in Berkley, Michigan, teaches families how to reach and teach their children with Autism and other developmental disorders, using techniques from the field of Applied Behavior Analysis. The Center, which is part of the nonprofit Beaumont Health, offers both center-based and consultative services…

Lyn Fokken’s son Quinn, a triplet, was diagnosed with autism at 2 [and-a-half]. Until recently, he didn’t communicate and interact with others, including his two brothers.

“He was in his own world,” explains Lyn, 36, of Lake Orion.

This past February, Lyn’s pediatrician referred her to Beaumont Children’s Hospital and its Center for Human Development for help. Both she and Quinn, now 4, enrolled in the center’s GIFT of Hope program.

…After just one month in the GIFT of Hope program, Quinn began talking. Since graduating in early August, he can now ask for things and his vocabulary is 150 words and growing.

“Quinn woke up! He’s now engaged in activities and plays with his brothers,” says Lyn. “These results give me inspiration to continue.”

During the program, parents like Lyn, learn how to teach and what to continue to teach. Even after the completion of the program, they meet monthly with a psychologist to discuss how to build upon their successes.

“Lyn is a natural born teacher. She knows what motivates Quinn,” explains [Jamie McGillivary, clinical manager, GIFT of Hope]. “Back in May he was a nonverbal child. Today he talks and interacts.”

The HOPE Center offers a two-day seminar, “The ABCs of ABA,” at no cost to families. The workshop introduces families to the field of applied behavior analysis and its application to treating children with developmental disabilities.

“Thanks to the GIFT of Hope program, I feel more educated, aware and empowered,” says Lyn…

Here is a link to a video on the HOPE Center: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aUPqN5Z7ZJQ

(source: Graduate Medical Education | Corewell Health in Southeast Michigan)

[Visionary7903]

The subject of recent posts has mainly been on Autism-related events and organisations in the state of Michigan.

Autism Support of Kent County, Inc. is a Grand Rapids, Michigan-based nonprofit made up of individuals who actively seek to support and advocate for persons with Autism Spectrum Disorders and their families. Autism Support of Kent County works to provide services that make it possible for individuals with Autism to lead healthier and more productive lives…

Sunday marked the second annual Walk for Autism Awareness at Kuyper College on the East Beltline.

This was technically the fourth walk put on by members of the Autism Support of Kent County …previously known as the Autism Society of Kent County. It was the group’s second walk under its new name.

“We set the walk at a 2.5K but we emphasize it is not a competitive event,” said organizer Carol Lippert. “We know there are families who are unable to walk with their children but we don’t want to discourage them from coming. There are a lot of other attractions as well.”

The event took place from noon until 3 p.m. Due to the weather, some activities were held indoors.

There was a large silent auction with tickets available to the Grand Rapids Symphony, restaurant gift certificates, spa packages, art lessons and games and goodie Baskets for children. Reds on the River in Rockford donated a wine tasting for the auction.

A Resource Fair boasted booths from 40 autism service or therapy providers. New this year, local autistic children’s art was on display in the lobby.

…Seven-year-old Alexei Salazer of Walker …spent time bounding up and down on large inflatable slides at the [Autism Support of Kent County] Walk Sunday afternoon.

“We come every year,” Alexei’s mom said of the event. “It is so nice to be able to go out in a place where not everybody knows your name and no one looks at you like why is your child acting so strange.”

…Jodi Mitchell of Rockford said [Autism Support of Kent County] was a huge asset to her when her family learned nine-year-old Andrew Mitchell had autism.

“I diagnosed him myself. I’m a speech pathologist,” she said. “But the diagnosis is really the easy part. It is not difficult to notice the signs.

The hardest most frustrating part is not knowing what to do — just figuring out the first step.”

Speech therapy, music therapy, occupational therapy and sensory therapy are often essential services for children with autism…

Here is a link to photos of Autism Support of Kent County’s annual Walk at Kuyper College in Grand Rapids, Michigan from a couple of years ago: https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10152836435387468.1073741834.295631512467&type=3

(source: Rockford Independent April 19, 2011 Page 11)