This article was contributed by Gwen Capers-Singleton, an ASNC Autism Resource Specialist in Charlotte and mom to a son with autism. Now that school is almost out and the weather ideal, I have started training for another marathon. As a mother of three, including an adult son with an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), running is…
Have a Happy Mother’s Day – Really!
This article was contributed by Judy Clute, an ASNC Autism Resource Specialist in Raleigh and mom to a son with autism. In the month of May, our thoughts turn to Mother’s Day and how we will celebrate Mom and all that she does all year. On this one day, moms are often given gifts…
What Would Acceptance Mean to You?
More than anything, the Autism Society of North Carolina’s IGNITE program is a community where young adults on the autism spectrum find the acceptance and friendship they want and deserve. For the first time, they are going out with friends, driving, and dating. They are embarking on new educational journeys and landing jobs. The…
IF/THEN: A Strategy to Motivate Your Child with Autism
This article was contributed by Nancy Popkin, Autism Resource Specialist in the Charlotte region and mom to a son with autism. Back when my son was little and newly diagnosed with autism, he would play by looking at multiple books at a time spread out on the floor. When he was done, he would leave…
The Invisible Disability: Another Facet of Autism
This article was contributed by Bobbi Wells, Autism Resource Specialist in the Eastern region and mom to a son with autism. Haven’t you heard the old saying, “Never judge a book by its cover?” Well, I am here to add to its meaning from an autism perspective. As a parent with a son who…
A Challenge for Change That Begins With YOU!
This article was contributed by Kim Tizzard, Associate Resource Specialist Director/Education Coordinator and mom to a son with autism. When my son was very young, his challenges, in all settings, seemed insurmountable. In particular, the thought of taking him out to church, school, a grocery store, or really anywhere that involved the public sector made…
Magic of Sesame Street Lets Us #SeeAmazing
This article was contributed by Amy Perry, an ASNC Autism Resource Specialist and mom to a daughter with autism. I’m going to get personal. When I heard Sesame Street was launching an autism initiative, I was very happy, and in some ways, I felt it was long overdue. I grew up watching Sesame Street and…
PALS creates joy at Sanderson High School
It was 5:45 p.m. on a Thursday, but the cafeteria of Sanderson High School in Raleigh was abuzz with activity. Teens in togas and tutus flitted back and forth, hanging streamers and taping grinning ghosts and grimacing skulls to the walls. Platters of donated snacks and cupcakes were set out on tables in one corner,…
Camp Royall: A Special Place Because of Special People
Each year, hundreds of individuals with autism experience the magic of summer camp at the Autism Society of North Carolina’s Camp Royall. At the end of the summer, we put together a magazine full of stories and photos of the life-changing experiences. Below, we share the story of a family that has made a difference in…