Tag Archives: autism

DSM 5: What’s the Big Deal?

It’s May 2013 and my copy of the DSM 5 is arriving this week. I remember the feeling of apprehension begin to circulate in conversations regarding the proposed revision to Autistic Disorder.  Questions swirled: “How would the change impact children … Continue reading

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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8 Tips for Successful Holidays or Events for Kids on the Spectrum

Holidays and family events are a joy and a stress in many families for both parents and children. If you have a child with special needs, these celebrations can become challenging. In a previous blog I offered some tips to … Continue reading

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Autism: Questions and Answers

Last Saturday, we hosted an “Autism Awareness Day” at the Millcreek Mall in Erie, PA. I had the opportunity to talk with a number of people who asked questions about some of the latest research findings. The most frequently asked … Continue reading

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