Author Archives: all about autism

Governor Tom Wolfe signed Act 66 of 2021 into law on June 30, 2021. Act 66 allows students in Special Education who were enrolled during the 20-21 school year and have “aged-out” of school (by either turning 21 during the 20-21 … Continue reading →

Each month, I provide updates on some of the latest research I have found relevant to us. Read on! Brain structures grow differently in boys, men with autism From childhood to adulthood, there is a notable difference in brain development … Continue reading →

The Barber National Institute has been offering the Pre-K Counts program for fourteen years in Erie and Corry. The program is designed for children three to five years of age who may be considered “at-risk” because of the family’s economic, language, … Continue reading →

Some people think of the lazy days of summer, but at the Barber National Institute, we’re actually busier than ever! Over the years, we have initiated a number of programs to ensure that children have both educational and recreational opportunities … Continue reading →

Today is graduation.  Traditionally, we have a large graduation class and of course, an audience.  This year, we have twenty-seven children graduating from Happy Hearts and Early Intervention, twelve from Pre-K Counts, and thirteen from High School. Last year, we … Continue reading →

As the 2020-2021 school year comes to a close, I began thinking… When the year started, some children were remote, while others were hybrid, attending two or three days a week.  The students and staff remained in their “pods,” or … Continue reading →

I asked Maria Brown, M.S., BCBA, who is a Behavior Analyst at BNI to write this guest blog for Mental Health Awareness Month. I thought she would have invaluable input! -Maureen The Elizabeth Lee Black School at the Barber National … Continue reading →

Two years ago, the Barber National Institute (BNI) began a collaboration with the General McLane School District opening a Life Skills classroom within Parker Middle School for children with Autism and/or behavior challenges. It was our first venture into offering … Continue reading →

Nurses have always played an important role in my life. My grandfather was the first male nurse at St. Vincent Hospital, and went on to become a physician. My Aunt Marion (Dr. Barber’s sister) was the Director of Nursing by … Continue reading →

As I was planning my blog for Mother’s Day, I thought, “Why don’t I ask for Ryan’s input?” Last night, while he was having dessert, I asked the question, “Tell me about your mom.” The following are his (unedited) responses: … Continue reading →