How often are we given a new medication to “try out” and then when we attend a follow-up appointment, the doctor says, “How’s that medication working?” We say something like “Um, it seems to be helping?” Unfortunately, we parents rarely collect objective behavioral data following medication changes. This is a concern not just for people…
Time to get ready for the time change
Many individuals with autism value routine. It makes them feel secure to know when and why something is happening. So when the time changes each spring and fall, some individuals may feel a loss of control and have a more difficult time adjusting than some people do. They may feel disoriented when it stays light…
Prepare Now for Your Best Summer
The weather might be frightful, but summer is just around the corner. And what is even more frightful for a parent is turning the calendar page to June and realizing you are not prepared. Many summer programs and camps (including ASNC’s own Camp Royall) are accepting registrations now, and many options for individuals with special…
Public Policy: Advocacy in 2019 and Beyond
One of the most difficult aspects of advocacy is looking at all of the barriers that one might face and believing, despite all of it, that change is possible. The Autism Society of North Carolina has from the start been dedicated to using advocacy to improve the lives of individuals on the autism spectrum and…
Looking for a Place to Belong? Join an ASNC Chapter
Fall is a great time to join one of the Autism Society of North Carolina’s 50 Chapters and Support Groups around the state. The beginning of the new school year also marks the restart of the groups’ activities and events. ASNC’s Chapters and Support Groups are led by generous parents or family member volunteers who…
Q&A with Dr. Jed Baker, Autism Expert
On Friday, November 4, Dr. Jed Baker will lead a daylong conference that touches on two very important topics for families and caregivers: managing frustration and anxiety and teaching social skills. Dr. Baker graciously shared some insights and previewed his talk in a Q&A recently. Why is it important for caregivers to think…
Kids Loved and Accepted as They Are at New Camps
Six-year-old Marshall Wingfield loves people, but he becomes overwhelmed in public and has always been a bit of a homebody, his mom says. “He wants so much to fit in and have friends,” said Elaina Wingfield of her son, who was diagnosed with autism last year during his kindergarten year. “But his challenges make…