Safe and Inclusive Aquatics for Autistic Individuals: An Evidence-Based Approach to Water Safety and Skill Development

• By: Dr. Erin Brooker Lozott, BCBA-D, CCC-SLP Els for Autism Foundation®
• April 3rd, 2026
• aquatic programs, communication supports, family involvement, life skills development, social engagement, Spring 2026 Issue, swimming instruction, water safety
• 224    0

Key Points Autistic individuals often experience significant barriers to recreation, limiting social engagement, physical development, and overall well‑being. Drowning risk remains a major safety concern, with autistic children being 160 times more likely to drown than their neurotypical...

Vocational Skill Building Improves Transition Outcomes for Young Adults with Autism and Low Vision

• By: Alexandra LaVoie, MSOT Ann Phelan, MA, CAGS Transition Center at the Perkins School for the Blind
• January 5th, 2026
• disabilities, employment outcomes, family involvement, independent living, self-determination, transition planning, vocational skill building, Winter 2026 Issue, work-based learning
• 1201    0

For many young adults, the transition from school to adulthood is a time filled with excitement and new experiences. For those with disabilities, it can also present unique challenges. Moving from a supported educational environment and accessing adult services is a big leap. What predicts greater...

The Transition to Adulthood: Bridging Skill Gaps to Strengthen Community Inclusion

• By: Edmar Wasington Matis, MSEd Cooperative for Human Services
• January 5th, 2026
• adult services, community inclusion, family involvement, neurodiversity, person-centered planning, provider training, skill development, transition to adulthood, Winter 2026 Issue
• 834    0

For autistic individuals, the transition to adulthood represents a pivotal developmental period filled with both potential and uncertainty. While for the most part, adolescence through special education programs often comes with robust educational supports and structured services, adulthood...

Psychiatric Hospitalization and ASD

• By: Sophia Francis-Stewart, MD Katherine Cody, PsyD Natalia Appenzeller, PhD Fay J. Lindner Center for Autism and Developmental Disabilities
• July 1st, 2014
• ASD/DD support, behavioral triggers, communication strategies, discharge planning, facility, family involvement, hospital, hospitalization, inpatient, outpatient care, psychiatric hospitalization, structured routine, teatment plan
• 3623    0

Admission to a psychiatric inpatient unit can have varying outcomes for a patient. The success of the admission is determined by the patient’s ability to function after discharge. During the course of treatment, it is important to prepare the patient for life after hospitalization. All members of...

Finding the Right Employment for Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder

• By: Michael J. Cameron, PhD, BCBA-D Pacific Child and Family Associates
• April 1st, 2014
• autism employment, community integration, family involvement, job preparation, social skills, strength-based assessment, vocational support, workplace inclusion
• 1901    0

Locating a place of employment is one of the most prevalent challenges for an individual with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). In fact, according to a study conducted in 2010 by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, only 21% of all adults with disabilities participated in the labor force as compared with...

Providing Opportunities for Employment

• By: L. Lynn Stansberry-Brusnahan, PhD Debra Cote, PhD California State University, Fullerton
• April 1st, 2014
• adolescent mental health, anxiety disorders, avoidance behavior, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), early intervention, employment initiatives, family involvement, functional impairment, school refusal
• 2325    0

Integrated work experiences enhance the quality of life for those living with ASD, reduce financial strain on aging parents, and contribute to the economic development of communities. A lack of supports and low expectations can result in sheltered work experiences, unemployment, and underemployment...