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Breaking Down the Barriers of Social Communication for Young Adults
The transition from adolescence to adulthood is an important and transitory juncture in the lives of modern young individuals. This exciting and oftentimes anxiety-inducing time brings with it a host of challenges: increased independence, heightened self-awareness, the taking on of more personal...
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Accommodations for Students in the Higher Education Environment
The transition from high school to college may be challenging for all students, but especially for those diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) and related learning differences. With so many changes in academic, social/emotional, and independent living demands, it is essential that students...
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Are You Mindful or Is Your Mind Full?
In today’s ever-changing and fast-paced world, the concept of being in the present moment and practicing mindfulness has never been more important. This is especially true as it relates to young adults as they begin navigating the college environment. For those learners who have been diagnosed...
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The Importance of Self-Advocacy Skills for Adolescents on the Autism Spectrum
Self-advocacy is the ability of an individual to speak on behalf of oneself, and is a critical skill to acquire when it comes to moving towards independence. Self-advocacy includes the quest for finding information, the process of making decisions, seeking help in times of need, understanding...
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Support of Coaching to Develop Key Skills that Facilitate Independent Living
Independent living skills, or life skills, are important tools that are needed in order to successfully navigate the world. In the 1990’s, a surge of children were diagnosed with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) and are now approaching adulthood (VanBergeijk, E., Klin, A. & Volkmar, F....
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Social Interventions: The Importance of Considering Program Design and Instructional Methods
Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) are categorized by deficits in social interaction and communication (Jordan & Powell, 1995). With scaffolded supports and structured practice in natural settings, individuals diagnosed with ASD can learn to build the critical skills necessary to engage...
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Autism in the Workplace: Identifying Opportunities and Providing Support
Between 1997 and 2011, the unemployment rate of those diagnosed with disabilities has ranged from 72% to 88%. This is an astounding number of persons with disabilities and Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD), specifically, without a job. Despite the enthusiasm, motivation, and dependability so many job...
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Smart Pens, Tablets, and Word Prediction Software: Utilizing Technology for High School and College Students
As we move through this digital age, students in high school and college are increasingly using technology as a mechanism to support learning. Technology can be used in a multitude of ways, ranging from electronic organizational systems and digital reminders to supporting more complex academic...
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Summer Programs for Adolescents and Young Adults
Summer vacation is a time ripe with opportunities for growth – a time to catch-up on academic learning, strengthen executive functioning, and improve social and communication competence. Opportunities abound during the summer months to engage in learning outside of the traditional classroom by...
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Executive Functioning Enhancement for High School Students with ASD
Educators have made great strides in integrating students with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) into general education over the past several decades; however, at the secondary school level, these students still often experience serious difficulties. A major obstacle to success for adolescents on the...
