Below is a summary and review of recent activity at the state and federal level. This includes COVID-19 related information and other legislative issues. Washington Update – No movement The US Senate has yet to respond to the passing of the HEROES Act. Our state is facing large budget deficits as a result of COVID-19’s…
Working through the Challenges of Wearing a Mask
As wearing a mask becomes our new normal, supporting an individual with autism to wear one for any amount of time might feel like a mountain to climb. In this blog, I will discuss potential reasons it can be particularly challenging for individuals with autism to wear masks, some alterations/adaptations to try, and suggestions for…
Weekly Policy Update: COVID-19 edition
This is the Autism Society of North Carolina (ASNC) weekly update on policy changes and legislation related to local, state, and federal COVID-19 emergency orders. This post covers May 19-25. For daily updates, information, and help during the emergency, we recommend the following sources: NC COVID-19 page CDC COVID-19 page News & Observer Coronavirus coverage…
Staying Structured and Engaged in this Challenging Time
Individuals on the autism spectrum may be feeling particularly unsettled during this time. People around them are behaving differently and may be showing anxiety. Routines, on which many are so reliant, may be changing. The adults in their families may be working from home or not at all, and their schools might be closing. Access…
Creating Success While Incorporating Interests and Strengths
A Look Back When my son Logan was diagnosed with autism at the age of 4, he was preverbal and was not able to pronounce most of his sounds. He could say “ba,” and a year later was able to say “ma.” It took years for him to master making all of the sounds necessary…
Promoting a Child’s Independence Within Daily Routines
One of the greatest joys of teaching students with autism is watching them become more confident in their abilities and take pride in their accomplishments. As they learn salient skills for completing daily routines and develop a greater sense of responsibility, students naturally become more self-determined and desire greater autonomy. Given systematic training, coaching, and…
Helping Your Loved One Get Active
Physical activity can be challenging for individuals with autism because many struggle with motor skills, hand-eye coordination, and balance. And let’s face it – like many of us – they often lack motivation to exercise. They may not recognize the value of activity or see its connection to how they feel. According to the CDC,…
Promoting Independence with Supported Decision-Making
Many 17-year-olds cannot wait for the day they will be on their own and can do whatever they want! Even as people warn that being an adult has challenges, they believe they will figure it out. When my neurotypical, oldest daughter reached adulthood, I was able to relate to this frame of mind. After much…