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The Importance of Outdoor Recreation: A Pathway to Wellness and Skill Development
Hippocrates said, “Nature itself is the best physician.” In our work with young adults on the autism spectrum to help them develop the skills to live independently, we follow the ancient Greek physician's advice and ensure that nature plays a crucial role in their growth and...
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Virtual Job Shadow Technology Mash-Up
One of the main purposes of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) is “To ensure that all children with disabilities have available to them a free, appropriate public education that emphasizes special education and related services designed to meet their unique needs and prepare...
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Cut Out for Him: A Father on His Son’s Employment Future
My 15-year-old son Alex (diagnosed PDD-NOS) goes to a special-needs school where some students are old enough to work. A few years ago Alex’s teacher told me about when she approached a local thrift shop about students volunteering there. “We don’t hire the handicapped,” the clerk...
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Summer Bridge Programs: Opportunities to Maximize Transition Success
Summer is right around the corner. Every year parents are faced with the same dilemma regarding what to do with their child on the autism spectrum while school is not in session. There are a variety of activities a child could engage in. The problem is finding the right one that suits your...
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Career Planning for People on the Autism Spectrum
As autistic kids graduate from high school and enter adulthood, parents ask, “What’s next?” Some will go to college, others won’t, but many will want to enter the work force. But what kind of work is the individual suited for? Everyone on the spectrum is different. Deciding on a career...
