This article was contributed by Judy Smithmyer, an ASNC Autism Resource Specialist in the Greensboro region and mom to a daughter with autism. Attending medical appointments with our children can be difficult, but when our child has autism, we can face a whole new set of challenges. Preparation is the key to making a…
LifeLong Interventions: One Year of Changing Lives
This article was contributed by Whitney Luffman, MA LPA, BCBA, Lead Clinical LPA for the Triangle region. When we first met, I was unsure of Johnās* language abilities, because he remained mostly silent. But I could see him watching others speak and could tell that he was receptively listening and taking in everything around him….
IF/THEN: A Strategy to Motivate Your Child 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 books open on the floor and get a few more. Before long, our entire family room floor was carpeted…
Learn About Innovations Waiver Changes, Share Opinions on IDD Issues
UPDATE:Ā The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services has notified us that the changes to the Innovations waiver are now proposed to go into effect November 1 to allow for additional training and preparation, and to provide additional time for approval of the changes by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). The…
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. Havenāt you heard the old saying, āNever judge a book by its cover?ā 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…
Clary Lamberton Named 2015 Winner of Roman Direct Service Award
The Autism Society of North Carolina has named Clary Lamberton of Asheville as the 2015 winner of the John and Claudia Roman Direct Service Award. The annual award honors a direct service employee of the Autism Society of North Carolina who has demonstrated outstanding dedication to individuals with autism and their families. Lamberton is a…
Wrapping Up the 2015 Legislative Session
This article was contributed by Jennifer Mahan, Director of Advocacy and Public Policy at ASNC. The NC General Assembly recently concluded an eight-month legislative session,Ā the longest on record for the past 14 years. During the long session, ASNC continued to advocate for our legislative priorities, including access to high quality services and supports, better education…
Autism Insurance and Annual Enrollment: Proactive Planning Pays
Editorās note: This article is informational in nature and should not replace a thorough reading of your employerās benefits literature. Each insurance plan is different, and often employers offer multiple plans. When enrolling in health care insurance, one must consider many factors: Amount of coverage Out-of-pocket cost Availability of providers (in-network) If you have a…