Many autistic people and people with other neurodivergences (e.g., ADHD, Touretteās) experience pressure to alter their natural ways of being to conform to neurotypical social expectationsāa practice known as masking. Masking emerges from the pressure autistic people often face to modify their natural expressions and behaviors in response to neurotypical social expectations to āfit in.ā…
Elections 2024: Get Ready to Vote!
As a reminder, the Autism Society of North Carolina (ASNC) is sharing information about voting in North Carolina during this election year through blog articles, social media posts, and other channels. Much attention will be paid this year to state primaries, U.S. Congressional races, and state legislative races. As a nonprofit organization, ASNC does not…
Micah Dupree and Calyn McMullen receive 2024 McCrimmon Award
The McCrimmon Award is named for Ed McCrimmon, a longtime staff member at the Autism Society of North Carolina (ASNC) known for his outstanding dedication and integrity in service to individuals with autism. Tragically, he died in 2017. The McCrimmon Award was established to keep Edās memory alive while celebrating other direct support professionals like…
Fatherhood and Autism: Words of Wisdom Part Two
Welcome to Part Two of our two-part blog series featuring the stories of four fathers who share the wisdom and insight they have gained while navigating the complexities of parenting an autistic child. Click here to read Part One of this special Fatherās Day blog series. Letās continue to explore the stories of these fathers…
Fatherhood and Autism: Words of Wisdom Part One
Fatherhood is a journey filled with both wonderful moments and significant challenges, highlighting the invaluable role that fathers play in their families. Fathers provide protection, guidance, stability, and support, serving as pillars of strength. This month, in honor of Fatherās Day, we asked four remarkable fathers who have children with autism to share their experiences…
Public Policy Update | May 23
Autism Society of North Carolina Public Policy updates: I/DD Caucus meeting draws advocates to NCGA Tailored Plan Reminders Survey on the Innovations Waiver Supports Budget Process I/DD Caucus meeting brings advocates to the NC General Assembly (NCGA). On Tuesday May 14, members of the Intellectual and/or Developmental Disability legislative caucus met to hear testimony…
Autism Parenting: The Impact Of “I understand”
Although I am a clinician, Iām writing this as a parent of a kiddo on the spectrum. This topic weighs on me professionally, but more so personally. As a professional, you may have tried to relate to a parent by saying, āI understandā at some point in your career. Iām sure as a parent you…