This article was contributed by Leica Anzaldo, Training Manager for the Autism Society of North Carolina. Social skills has always been a buzz word in the autism community, but what does this really mean? My colleague and I have recently been tasked with developing a training program that addresses teaching social skills within the…
Fair Doesnât Have to Mean Equal
This article was contributed by Bobbi Wells, an Autism Resource Specialist and mom to a son with autism. In a world where it seems to be politically correct to treat everyone the same and give everyone the same privileges, we often miss the opportunity to teach our kids (typical and not typical) a very important…
He Has âMasteredâ This Skill at Home; Why Doesnât He Do It Anywhere Else?
Long ago, I worked with a young child who could answer a variety of social questions such as âWhatâs your name?,â âWhere do you live?,â and âWhat is your momâs name?,â but he could only answer the questions under certain conditions. When asked the questions at school by others, or when the phrasing of these…
Free Workshop: “Autism: How Faith Communities Can Help”
Practicing oneâs faith is important to many families of children and adults with autism and other disabilities. Families often turn to their faith communities for understanding, acceptance, and support as they work to meet the needs of the person with autism and understand his or her strengths and gifts. Yet often they struggle to find…
ASNC Offers Free JobTIPS Classes
October is recognized as National Disability Employment Awareness Month by the U.S. Department of Labor. The national campaign aims to raise awareness about disability employment issues and celebrate the contributions of Americaâs workers with disabilities. The Autism Society of North Carolina has made it a priority to help individuals with autism to secure and maintain…
Voting: What You Need to Know for the 2014 Elections
Election Day falls on Tuesday, November 4, and early voting sites will open Thursday, October 23. North Carolina voters will elect candidates for a variety of offices, including the General Assembly, Congress, state judgeships, and others. Below are a few things you should be aware of since new voting laws were passed in 2013. You…
Recognize Your Direct Support Professional
This article was contributed by Kerri Erb, Senior Director of Quality and Programs. Direct support professional (DSP), community skills instructor (CSI), habilitation technician (hab tech), CAP worker â whatever their names, these individuals should be recognized. Every day, they work one-to-one with individuals with autism, teaching skill acquisition and supporting them in reaching their goals….
Surviving School in a Nutshell
This article was contributed by Kim Tizzard, Autism Resource Specialist and mom to a son with autism. The beginning of a new school year has somehow snuck up on us. For many, the uncertainty of how our childâs needs will be met can be a source of angst. Like a video loop, the same thoughts…