This blog post was written by Dawn Eberwein, Bookstore Manager for the Autism Society of North Carolina. The ASNC Bookstore is a unique place that provides information, resources, employment, and support for the ASD community.Ā We are a place for parents, self-advocates, teachers, practitioners, or anyone in a relationship with someone on the spectrum to…
Extinction Bursts and the Importance of Full Disclosure
This blog post was written by Dr. Aleck Myers, Clinical Director for the Autism Society of North Carolina. Recently, I wrote a behavior support plan for an individual who frequently tantrums. Great methodology, if I do say so myself! It was well written and explained the rationale of the program to family and staff, stressing…
College Admissions Testing and Autism
This contribution is from Parent Advocate/Trainer Nancy Popkin. Back when my son was diagnosed with autism, I couldnāt imagine him going to college, let alone surviving his school years. But here we are, sixteen years post diagnosis, with a high school graduate who is now a college freshman. If college is in your childās future,…
Seeing is Believing
Editor’s Note – The following article was written by Amy F. Hobbs, Training Coordinator with the Autism Society of North Carolina. Research shows that video modeling is an effective strategy to use with individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder to improve social and communication skills. As a trainer, I frequently emphasize the importance of showing children…
Planning for the Future
by Linda Griffin, Parent Advocate Director Parents of children with autism are often so busy just getting through the day that they forget to plan for the future.Ā And that future arrives sooner than you expect.Ā One day you are struggling with toilet training and IEPs and the next day you look up and your…
A New Year, A New Approach to Challenging Behaviors
Editor’s Note – The following post was written by Louise Buchholz Southern, M.Ed., BCBA, Training Specialist for the Autism Society of North Carolina (ASNC). As professionals working in the field of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) intervention and as parents of individuals with ASD, itās likely that we have all experienced challenging and persistent behaviors. These…
Getting the Most out of the Holiday Season
by Linda Griffin, Parent Advocate Director The holiday season is upon us ā a time of joy and excitement.Ā But for parents of children with autism, it may only bring excitement (also known as chaos)ā¦ā¦and very little joy. Sometimes this lack of joy is simply because we have unrealistic expectations. Weāve seen too many idyllic…
Action Needed: Personal Care Medicaid Changes Threaten Group Home Residents
Recent news reports have shed light on changes that will have a negative effect on individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder and other disabilities who receive assistance through Medicaid’s Personal Care Services (PCS). Please note that the Personal Care Services described in this blog are not the same personal care services delivered to individuals who are…
Stuffed Allies and Dignity: How Understanding Anxiety Can Save the Day
Editor’s Note: This week’s blog post was submitted by Jennifer O’Toole, award-winning author of Asperkids: An Insider’s Guide to Loving, Understanding and Teaching Children with Asperger Syndrome. O’Toole, her husband, and her three children all have Asperger Syndrome. The year was 1982.Ā Ronald Reagan was in office. āDonāt You Want Me, Baby?ā was on the…