New Technology from Autism Speaks

I’m excited to see that Autism Speaks has launched a new Autism and Technology page. At the Barber National Institute, we have seen the impact that the effective use of technology can have for our children and adults with autism. Because technology is always changing, it’s difficult to stay up-to-date with the advances. The webpage has information on apps and webinars, as well as technology resources. You are also able to send in your questions regarding the use of technology with your child or adult. Continue reading →

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Advocacy for Autism

In Tuesday’s blog, I talked about how critical it was for each of us to contact our local legislators, the Governor and the Secretary of Public Welfare and voice our concern about the reclassification of Erie County from urban to rural. I heard from many of you who agreed that this decision would have far-reaching ramifications Continue reading →

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Impact of Reclassification in Erie County

Many of you have contacted me since news of the reclassification of Erie County was announced to express your concern and ask what you can do. I wanted to pass along today’s (September 18) editorial in the Erie Times-News as it clearly demonstrates the devastating effect it will have on this community and the children and adults who we serve. I encourage you to contact your legislators, Governor Corbett and the Secretary of Public Welfare. You can find their email addresses on our website.

Make sure your voice is heard!

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Erie County Reclassification

It’s time to act now. The Erie region has been reclassified by Governor Tom Corbett and the Department of Public Welfare from urban to rural. What does this mean? This change in classification equals a 7% cutback in funding for persons with disabilities that could have a significant impact on services. What can you do? Contact your legislators and the Governor himself and appeal to them that the fourth largest city in Pennsylvania should be classified urban, not rural.

You can read more about the impact that this change will have in an editorial from today’s Erie Times.

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Effects of Autism on Development

Dr. Joseph Barber presented a great seminar last evening on “Regulation, Reactivity, and Flexibility in Autism Spectrum Disorder,” where he discussed the effects of autism on a child’s developmental stages and progression. He provided information that would be most helpful to parents of children on the spectrum of all ages, as well as professionals in the field. Dr. Barber will provide an outline of his presentation online and in his newsletter. He suggested that if you wish to have a copy, sign up for his newsletter at www.Eriepediatrics.com

We are so fortunate to have a person with his level of expertise in our community!

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Paralympics Coverage Lacking

What’s your view?

Victoria Arlen wins Gold at the Paralympics
Photo credit: thenews.com

This year’s Paralympics came to a close this past Sunday, and it drew the largest ever television audience – except in the United States. In the U.S., coverage had been minimal, mostly occurring following the close of the event.  If I recall correctly, NBC coverage of the Olympics extended for three weeks, while this year’s Paralympics coverage will last only 5.5 hours. Continue reading →

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Blake Leeper’s Story

Photo credit: paralympic.org

Blake Leeper, runner and member of the 2012 U.S. Paralympic Team, serves as an example of setting the bar high.  Blake was born without lower legs and feet.  The doctor told his parents that he would never walk.  But his parents set Blake on a bold path that would train him not only to overcome obstacles but deny that they had ever existed in the first place.

Blake was fitted for prosthetic legs at 6 months of age and was walking three months later.  Later, he started running.  And he hasn’t stopped running yet.

On Saturday, September 2, in London, Blake received the bronze medal in the Men’s 200 meter sprint.

Learn more about Blake here.

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PNC Promotes Early Education

In a previous blog, I discussed the critical importance of quality early childhood education for our young children.  As we transition from summer to a new school year, I want to bring to your attention the leadership role PNC, one of the leading financial services organizations in the United States, has taken in promoting early childhood education.  I have had the privilege to serve on the PNC Grow Up Great Advisory Board.  Grow Up Great is a bilingual, $350 million initiative that began in 2004 to help prepare children five years old and younger for success in the classroom and in life.

PNC has partnered with Sesame Workshop, the Fred Rogers Company and the National Head Start Association in this venture to provide leadership, advocacy, funding, volunteers and educational resources.  Over 1.5 million children have been served through grants and innovative programs emphasizing math, science, the arts and financial education for young children.

The PNC partnership with Sesame Workshop provides great educational kits for both parents and educators.  You can download them by visiting the web page. Recently launched kits are also available by visiting your local PNC branch or by calling 1-877-PNC-GROW (1-877-762-4769).  I also receive weekly emails from Sesame Workshop with great educational tips and updates.  I encourage you to sign up as well.

PNC also offers a Mobile Learning Adventure (MLA), which is a traveling exhibit that provides opportunities for parents and caregivers to learn about the importance of early childhood education while they engage in fun activities with their children.  You will want to check the MLA calendar to see when the tour may be in your area!

Hats off to PNC Financial Services Group for leading the way by demonstrating the importance of early learning, not only for our children’s success but for our society’s future.

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Dream Comes True for Girl with Autism

Photo courtesy of http://newyork.cbslocal.com/.

I wanted to share a “feel good” story about an 8 year-old young lady with autism whose dream came true this summer.  Jadyn Waiser became the first special needs member of the New York Jets Junior Flight Crew Cheerleader Squad.  The cheerleaders believe that everyone has abilities to share with others.  Jadyn performed at halftime in front of 80,000 people at the Giants vs. Jets preseason game.  Her parents always set the bar high for her and let her pursue activities some may consider challenging for children with autism.  Congratulations to Jadyn and her parents!

And an update from our school:

Day four has come and gone, and we still have smiling students and faculty!

Sophia, one of our youngest students, on Day four of school!

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First Day of School at the Elizabeth Lee Black School

Two ELBS students happy to see each other on the first day of school!

Yesterday was the start of the 2012-2013 school year!  I’m not sure who was more excited – the faculty, the children, or me.  So, I thought that today I would provide you with an update on the Elizabeth Lee Black School.  We have 23 classrooms for children ranging in ages from 3 to 21 years.  We serve children with developmental delays, autism, intellectual disabilities, hearing impairment, as well as children with multiple disabilities.   Continue reading →

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