Category Archives: Uncategorized

Giving Adults An Opportunity to Learn at the Barber National Institute

Recently, I gave a presentation to our board of directors on our Adult Basic Education (ABE) program. The board was so interested in learning about the program that I wanted to share with my readers, as well! As the only … Continue reading

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How are PA’s Kids Faring?

The Annie E. Casey recently published its 2017 Kids Count Data Book, an annual review of how America’s children and families are faring across the United States. The study uses four indicators, economic wellbeing, education, health, and family/community, to measure … Continue reading

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Fear of Flying

Recently, Ryan and I had plans to fly to Chicago for my nephew’s wedding. I was concerned because Ryan had not flown in 15 years. How would he do? The long security lines, loud noises, tight spaces, and of course, … Continue reading

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Transitioning to Summer Break Successfully

As school starts to let out, I’m sure many of you are considering how the transition from school to summer will go. This can be a challenging time for some families – it was certainly a challenge for Ryan and … Continue reading

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“10 Things I am Desperately Still Trying to Learn”

In this graduation season, there will be many commencement speeches made around the world. I always find this time particularly uplifting – a call to look to the future, to work hard for your dreams, and to never stop trying … Continue reading

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Graduation 2017

Last night was a momentous evening at the Barber National Institute! We celebrated the 2016 graduation with over 70 preschool, elementary, and high school students. Each of our students comes to the stage and receives their diploma. A representative from the … Continue reading

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Learn to Ride!

Certainly, no one would argue that a healthy lifestyle is an important goal for all individuals, both young and old. This National Physical Fitness & Sports Month is a great time to renew your commitment to a healthy, active lifestyle. … Continue reading

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Guest Blog: Mental Health Month, by Dr. Rochelle Von Hof

In honor of National Mental Health Awareness Month, I asked Rochelle Von Hof, Ph.D., Director of Clinical Programming and Services at the Barber National Institute, to say a few words about her experiences in this vast and ever-changing field.  ~ Maureen … Continue reading

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OCD in the Autism Community

I recently had the opportunity to attend the conference “Treating OCD in the Autism Community,” sponsored by the Obsessive-Compulsive Foundation of Western Pennsylvania (OCDFWPA) and Autism Connections of PA. Going into the conference, my driving questions were: “How does OCD … Continue reading

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Monthly Research Articles

Scientists and researchers are constantly uncovering more information related to autism, offering insights into the origins, possible causes and even at times potential cures. I come across dozens of articles on a weekly basis, some of which seem more important … Continue reading

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