Ā This article was contributed by Amy Perry, an Autism Resource Specialist for the Autism Society of North Carolina. The iPad can be used as a powerful tool for communication, but many families are stumped about where to begin. Apps for communication range from simple text-to-speech to full-fledged Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) systems with…
Driving and Autism
Editor’s Note – The following article was written by Linda Griffin, Parent Advocate Director for the Autism Society of North Carolina. I had hoped that my son would learn to drive. And then I hoped that he wouldnāt. Either way, there were going to be consequences. Not driving meant learning to use public transportation and…
Seeing is Believing
Editor’s Note – The following article was written by Amy F. Hobbs, Training Coordinator with the Autism Society of North Carolina. Research shows that video modeling is an effective strategy to use with individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder to improve social and communication skills. As a trainer, I frequently emphasize the importance of showing children…
Action Needed: Personal Care Medicaid Changes Threaten Group Home Residents
Recent news reports have shed light on changes that will have a negative effect on individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder and other disabilities who receive assistance through Medicaid’s Personal Care Services (PCS). Please note that the Personal Care Services described in this blog are not the same personal care services delivered to individuals who are…
Choice: A Building Block of Self-Determination
Self-determination is often described as the combination of skills and knowledge that enables a person to engage in goal-directed, autonomous, and self-regulated behavior. Self-determined individuals have the power to exert control over their own lives in order to achieve the outcomes that they desire. Self-determined individuals make things happen in their lives, and they recognize…
Staying Two Steps Ahead: Safety in the Community and at Home
Parents worry about their childrenās health, happiness, and well-being, but parents of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) must look at their environment closely and take great care to ensure that their kids are safe both inside and outside the home. Why is safety for the person with ASD different from any other safety measures…
Medicaid Waiver (CAP IDD) Changes Take Effect Soon – What you need to know
Editor’s Note – The following update was compiled and vetted by Autism Society of North Carolina Senior Director of Quality and Programs Kerri Erb and Director of Governmental Relations Jennifer Mahan. Both these ASNC staff have been following changes to Medicaid Waiver services for quite some time. Last year, the State of North Carolina submitted…
Structure – an Important Teaching Tool
Editor’s Note – This article was written by Amy Hobbs, Training Coordinator for the Autism Society of North Carolina. To read Amy’s bio click here. It was Sunday and a new group of campers had arrived in the afternoon. I was called to the old dining hall to assist a counselor who was having trouble…
Honoring Direct Support Professionals
Editor’s Note – Last week was Direct Support Professional Recognition Week in North Carolina. The Autism Society of North Carolina employs hundreds of Direct Support personnel and without their dedication and continued efforts many individuals on the autism spectrum and their families would not have needed support services. The following article was provided by Kerri…