All About Autism

As a longtime advocate for the use of Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) both in school and at home, I was very pleased to read that the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) publicly endorsed the use of ABA in the treatment of autism last week.  The effectiveness of ABA has been demonstrated through years of research in both the university and home/school settings.  Pennsylvania was Continue reading →

I would like to share a few thoughts about the importance of volunteerism in our society today.  The need for services for children and adults with autism is growing exponentially while funding is significantly declining.  Each of us should ask the question: What can I do to help? 

Volunteerism – Then & Now

Volunteerism has been interwoven in our society for hundreds of years. The notion of volunteerism has been exemplified in the U.S. since the early days of barn raisings and quilting bees. Women notably led volunteer efforts. Social problems such as nursing the sick, antislavery, prison reform, illiteracy and suffrage are examples of traditional women-dominated volunteer roles.

According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, people who are 35 years or older are 50% more likely to volunteer than those under the age of 35.  This is surprising since the 20 somethings are beginning their careers and would significantly benefit from the networking, skill building, and leadership development that occur through volunteerism. 

Volunteerism Matters

Following completion of graduate school, I returned to Erie with minimal contacts.  I joined the Junior Continue reading →

Dan Portenier, left, selects responses for the robot while Jennifer Zona directs the therapy session.

On Thursday, June 14, we will be presenting, “Conversation with Brendan:  Robots, Grandkids and Autism.”  For those who will not be able to attend, I thought I would provide you with a brief update on the project. 

Planning for the project began last fall when Jen and Dan traveled to Notre Dame to meet with Joshua Diehl, PhD, professor and primary investigator in this study.  Preparation continued throughout Continue reading →

Now that summer vacation is almost upon us, I thought I would share a few tips about traveling, as many of us save our “trips” for this time of the year.  Whether you are traveling by car or by airplane, there are ways to make it easier for both you and your child.

• Prepare your child for the trip far in advance.  In our family, I like to have a schedule of June, July and August so Continue reading →