Monthly Archives: April 2013

If You Could do One Thing to Make a Difference in the Life of a Child, Make it this One

The one thing that makes a difference in the life of a child born into poverty is the opportunity to succeed. How do you provide a child with this opportunity? Through quality early childhood programs. Too many families lack the … Continue reading

Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , | Leave a comment

Thankful for the Autism Journey

I feel a sense of gratitude as I reflect on how far we’ve come since the early 90s on this journey called autism.  To all who work to keep autism on the forefront, thank you.  Parents, teachers, physicians, researchers and advocates all … Continue reading

Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged , , , | 2 Comments

The Journey of Autism: A Mom’s Latest Challenge

I felt so proud of Ryan for sharing his perspective on living with autism in my last post. I also felt it might be helpful for me to share my views on our latest challenge as we travel the journey … Continue reading

Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged , , , | 6 Comments

I Have Autism: Ryan’s View

MTV’s mini-documentary series “True Life: I Have Autism” introduced viewers to Jeremy, Jonathan and Elijah, three high school students whose autism is old hat to themselves and their families.  It was 2007, and the research suggested that 1:150 children were on … Continue reading

Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged , , , | 14 Comments

What Does 1:50 Really Mean?

1:500 – The incidence of autism diagnosed in children during the 90s. It was also the decade Ryan was born. Today, 2013, we know that number is 1:88. The latest study by the CDC is now reporting that 1 in … Continue reading

Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , | 2 Comments

How Autism Aware Are You?

“Autistic tendencies” – the term used in the 1970s describing children with intellectual disabilities who also fell within the spectrum.  As educators at that time, we weren’t aware that some children without intellectual disabilities would be diagnosed with autism. Why? … Continue reading

Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged , , | Leave a comment

You Don’t have to be Holly Robinson Peete to be Aware of Autism

Actress Holly Robinson Peete and her husband NFL star Rodney Peete are aware of autism. Their son, R.J., was diagnosed with autism at the age of three.  Inspired by their son, Holly and Rodney embarked on the journey of autism … Continue reading

Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , | Leave a comment

What’s the Secret to Autism Awareness?

Autism Awareness Month is not simply for parents raising a child or children diagnosed with autism.  This month is for everyone. For parents of typical children, grandparents, friends, coworkers, teachers, social workers, police officers, employers, store clerks, etc. This is … Continue reading

Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged , , , | 2 Comments

10 Reasons Why World Autism Awareness Day Matters to Me

Today is the 6th Annual World Autism Awareness Day, and I think that is something to celebrate. Here’s why: Because in my experience as a mom, educator and administrator, autism awareness is working! It’s evolving from awareness to acceptance. Because … Continue reading

Posted in Uncategorized | Leave a comment