THIS MONTH'S SPONSORS
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| Coping with Coronavirus for Families of Children with Autism |
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These are challenging times and daily life is now chock full of the main ingredients for anxiety and worry. Between frequent grim news updates from around the world and new daily living circumstances that can constantly remind us of the increased danger and threat that we all face, it is a stressful time. It is all the more so for families of children, teens and adults with autism spectrum disorders (ASD).
Our research team has spent the last 17 years studying anxiety in people with ASD. Although we don't have all the answers by any means, we do have some suggestions to share that may make coping with the anxiety of the current crisis more manageable. I've broken down my thoughts on anxiety and autism during the coronavirus emergency into three parts: Understanding our anxiety about what is going on, helping parents manage their own anxiety and supporting children in coping with anxiety. Read on... |
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| Op-ed: Two-thirds of our team is autistic. That's helping us survive the coronavirus |
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- At Auticon, a global IT consulting firm, 200 of its 300 employees are autistic.
- The company has found that workers with autism communicate better in remote work settings and often excel at business intelligence, quality-assurance test automation and complex software development projects.
- Hiring more people with autism could be the answer to the tech skills shortage while diversifying a company's workforce.
The coronavirus crisis has led to the largest experiment in remote work anyone has ever seen, with many companies switching to telecommuting almost overnight. Our company has been part of the experiment-and it's taught us some surprising lessons on the power of neurodiversity in a crisis like this. Read on... |
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| Autistic children's repetitive behaviors linked to sleep, sensory problems |
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Early sleep problems predict repetitive behaviors later in childhood1. And toddlers who overreact or underreact to sensory stimuli have more repetitive behaviors and other autism traits later on2.
Together, the findings from two independent studies suggest that early behavioral differences may set the stage for restricted and repetitive behaviors, a core characteristic of autism also associated with other conditions of brain development.
The studies also highlight areas for early intervention, particularly if further research identifies causal links between these traits. Read on... |
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| Infants' interactions with parents may predict autism |
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Younger siblings of children with autism who have insecure attachments to their caregivers are more likely to be diagnosed with autism than are siblings with secure attachments, according to the first study to explore this link1.
The findings do not suggest that insecure attachments cause autism. But such attachments may signal autism early and guide interventions for these 'baby sibs.'
The bond between an infant and caregiver develops through the infant's interactions with her caregiver, especially during periods of stress. The strength of the attachment reflects the child's perceptions of the caregiver's availability and care. Read on... |
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| Family and Others Looking for Help!!! |
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Do you receive SSI? Don't miss out on food benefits!
Beginning June 2019, many Supplemental Security Income (SSI) recipients will become eligible for CalFresh Food Benefits.
There is NO CHANGE or reduction to SSI/SSP amounts. For more information Click, Call or Come in to your county office to apply and find out more.
Click GetCalFresh.org to apply online
Call 1-877-847-3663 (FOOD)
Come in/find an office at CalFreshFood.org
San Diego Futures - I wanted to make sure everyone was aware of this organization because it can be a helpful resource to families in need of computers and other technology who may not have the resources they need to secure technology for their homes. If anyone needs a laptop or desktop and cannot afford one, please consider reaching out to this group. Desktops and laptops are available at VERY low prices for eligible families. https://sdfutures.org/for-individuals/
If you have a question or request for this newsletter group, please send your email request to [email protected]. People who can help you will email you directly with their responses. |
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| 2020 Created On IPad Gallery 3 |
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For Autism Acceptance in April, Art of Autism contributors across the United States and Canada explore digital art as a new medium using iPad with Apple Pencil. What they created was amazing!
Over the last few weeks, participants have been creating new forms of art on iPad. Though some had previous experience with iPad, most artists had not previously worked with Apple Pencil to create art. This is the 3rd gallery that The Art of Autism is posting during the month of April, Autism Acceptance Month. The second gallery is here. The first gallery is here. And, the third gallery is here.
The Art of Autism is a 501c3 nonprofit. We are an international collaboration of talented individuals who have come together to display the creative abilities of people on the autism spectrum and others who are neurodivergent. Our mission is to provide a forum to connect with those who wish to employ these abilities. The Art of Autism accepts many art forms, including blog posts, art, poetry, video submissions and requests for book and film reviews. We seek diverse viewpoints including those from autistic people, parents, siblings, therapists, and others. We look to partner with organizations with similar goals for awareness, acceptance, educational events and the provision of opportunities for our participants. https://the-art-of-autism.com |
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| Groups for children, teens and young adults enrolling now! |
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Wondering if your child might benefit from joining a group? Give us a call at 858-558-9552 to schedule a free consultation.
Tele Health now in use during COVID-19!!!
Social Communication Specialists
5703 Oberlin Dr., Ste 207
San Diego, CA 92121
(858) 558-9552
[email protected]
https://socialcommunicationspecialists.com |
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| Support "Splash for Cash" |
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While we will not be able to hold the 18th Annual Splash for Cash on Sunday, April 26, 2020 in person due to the current situation with Covid 19, this is still our biggest fundraiser of the year and we need your support now more than ever!
Help us raise money for our Pool PALS programs which include swimming lesson scholarships, Surf Camp, and our monthly family events--Family Pizza and Pool Party, and our Family Gymnastics Night. This events may be temporarily on hold, but we will resume them as soon as the state health recommendations allow us to! Priority Registration for Surf Camp for those who raise at least $250 towards the fundraiser will still happen! All fundraisers who have raised $250 or more by April 26th will be notified by email and sent registration forms to complete.
Sign up to fundraise as a team OR as an individual fundraiser.
Sign up here: https://splashforcash.rallybound.org/
Each month we have over 200 children and adults attend our family swim and gym nights. We provide swim lesson scholarships to 100 individuals/year and provide surf camp for 95 children and adults every summer. Your donation keeps all of these popular programs going at a reasonable cost for families.
Thank you for your support! It is making a difference in the lives of so many! https://www.autismsocietysandiego.org |
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| Autism Research Survey |
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Please help us make a difference and change lives with those who are affected with autism by completing our Status of Autism Research survey. PLEASE SHARE with anyone who you know/think maybe able to participate and Contribute.
We are conducting research through Point Loma Nazarene University. The survey will take 10-20 min & your participation will affect the lives of children in many countries.
We want to understand the trajectories in the lives of individuals who have been diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (formerly known as Pervasive Developmental Disorder).
The purpose of this study is to determine the current status of those individuals in order to better inform current treatment practices and create recommendations for the treatments and therapies that will be used for the next generation of kids with autism.
The more people who respond and the more diverse the individuals with autism, the better the statistics and therefore the better quality recommendations will be. Dalia
www.autismresearchstudy.com
This study is open to the following:
* Any parent or caregiver over the age of 18 of a child with Autism
* Any spouse of an individual over the age of 18 with Autism or Asperger
* Any individual over the age of 18 with Autism as long as they can participate without the help of a caregiver/aide.
* The study is open to individuals regardless of current location
*** Apologies to those who object to the term "person with autism" as opposed to autistic person. All questions had to be approved by the IRB and as such had to follow medical guidelines. |
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| 2020 Autism Speaks North County Walk |
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Saturday, November 14, 2020 at 9 AM - 12 PM
Mance Buchanon Soccer Fields
Oceanside, California 92057
The annual Autism Speaks North County Walk is now open for individual and team registrations! Event includes local service provider resources, sponsor booths, Kids Zone, live entertainment, and a beautiful walk through Mance Buchanon Park.
Registration is FREE but fundraising is encouraged. Every dollar raised goes to advancing research, supporting advocacy, and supporting individuals with autism and their families nationwide and locally here in San Diego County.
Click here to sign up today! |
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| FREE! - Building Bridges II: Autism Research Symposium |
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The SDSU Center for Autism is hosting its second Building Bridges event!
Friday, September 25, 2020 at 1:00 PM - 7:00 PM
and
Saturday, September 26, 2020 at 9:30 AM - 1:30 PM
SDSU - Auditorium 11 and West Patio
Storm Hall
5550 Campanile Dr
San Diego, CA 92182
Join us on Friday afternoon, April 25th, for a research symposium showcasing the multidisciplinary autism research at San Diego State University, which spans basic science, applied, and implementation research across the lifespan.
Friday, April 25, 1-5pm (symposium) 5-7pm (reception)
The event continues with a Saturday morning Community Forum-focused on sharing information and gathering feedback from key stakeholders in the autism community. There will also be a screening and discussion of the documentary Autism Goes to College.
Saturday, April 26, 9:30-1 (forum/movie screening and Q&A)
To RSVP for this event, please click on this link: Building Bridges II: Community Forum |
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| ASD Mornings at the NAT |
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The San Diego Natural History Museum (The Nat) is pleased to offer a program for the Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) community: a once-a-month ASD Morning in which the Museum opens early for adults and children on the autism spectrum and their families, friends, and caregivers. This innovative program encourages individuals to explore, play, and discover the treasures The Nat has to offer in an environment that is comfortable for them.
ASD Mornings take place the second Sunday of every month. The Museum will open at 9 AM*, one hour earlier than its standard 10 AM opening time, providing a quiet and less-crowded environment for visitors to explore the Museum's galleries at their own pace. In addition, on ASD Mornings the Museum will offer a "quiet room" from 9 AM to noon if visitors need a quiet space to decompress or desensitize. General admission rates apply during ASD Mornings.
www.sdnhm.org
877.946.7797
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| Autism Accessibility Morning at the Fleet! |
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The third Saturday of every month, Fleet invites the Autism Spectrum Community to enjoy our museum through this special opportunity. Adults and families with children with autism can enjoy the Fleet's exhibit galleries in a quieter setting, an hour before regular open hours to the general public and with access to a special cool-off space. Visitors are welcome to stay and enjoy the museum all day. Admission includes a special IMAX film screening at 10 a.m. with the house lights on and a lower soundtrack volume.
For more information, visit www.fleetscience.org/events/autism-accessibility-mornings.
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| Everyone Deserves a Loving Home |
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| Autism Through the Lifespan |
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Please RSVP for Spanish Translation support
For further information, please contact:
Carolyn Carterette, M.A. (619) 725-8080 email: [email protected]
Grace Fantaroni, Ed.D. (619) 563-2839 email [email protected]
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| Webinar: Learn About RDI with Kiki Haddad! |
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| Webinar: Learn About RDI with Brooke Wagner |
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| Toddler MRI Study at SDSU |
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Our Center's research arm, the Brain Development Imaging Labs, is conducting a fascinating study looking at how young children's brains change as they get older. We are looking for kids (15 months to 5 years old) who are on the spectrum or who are suspected to have autism. Participants get a free assessment (plus assessment summary), free MRI scan, $150, AND a free picture of their brain!
For more info or to sign up, please call us at 619-594-2500 or email us at [email protected]. Thank you! http://autism.sdsu.edu
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| Participate in SPARK at UCSD |
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UC San Diego's Autism Center of Excellence is seeking individuals diagnosed with ASD and their biological family members to participate in SPARK, the largest national genetics research project in US history! The SPARK study aims to gain a better understanding of the causes and potential treatments of autism by building a cohort of 50,000 diagnosed individuals to facilitate research on an unprecedented scale. There is NO cost to participate in the study and it can even be completed without leaving the house!
What we do
SPARK researchers extract genetic data through a saliva sample and analyze information collected from thousands of people with autism and their biological parents. UCSD and over 20 of the nation's leading medical schools are part of this effort.
How to join*
1. Sign up online at
www.sparkforautism.org/ucsd.sarrc -- registration typically takes about 20 minutes. Using this link connects you to our site, which enables us to better follow up with you if you encounter any issues or have specific questions.
2. Complete a few questionnaires online.
3. Provide a saliva sample. A saliva collection kit will be sent directly to your home after registration. When you are done, simply mail it back in the prepaid mailer.
Benefits of joining
1. Individuals with autism will receive gift cards valued at up to a total of $50 for participation.
2. SPARK hosts monthly webinars, featuring psychologists, researchers, or speakers from the autism community, that provide useful information for families and individuals with autism.
3. If a genetic finding is discovered related to the cause of autism, results will be shared back with families.
4. The information you provide may help others with ASD for generations to come!
*Our site also offers the option for home appointments where a member of our SPARK team can come to your home and assist you in the registration process, collect the saliva samples, and mail them in for you! This is typically the preferred method for families as everything gets completed at once. Please note that we ask that both biological parents and individual diagnosed with ASD be present for these appointments. We can accommodate a variety of dates and times outside normal business hours on the weekdays or weekends -- whichever is most convenient for you and your family! Alternatively, we can also schedule in-clinic appointments at our office if that is preferred.
You can visit our SPARK FAQ page for additional details. Please contact us via email at [email protected] or via phone at 858-534-6906 if you would like to set up an appointment or if you have any questions!
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| Older Adults with Autism (40-75 yrs old) Needed for Study |
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We are looking for older adults with autism (40-75 yrs old) to be in our brain imaging study! Anyone with a diagnosis or suspects that she or he has autism is invited to reach out to us. Participants receive a free assessment, free MRI brain scan, and around $150! If you know anyone who might be interested in this, please have them email
[email protected] or call us at 619-594-0176. Thank you!
http://autism.sdsu.edu
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| Participate in a Study at Research on Autism and Development Laboratory at UCSD |
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| SJSU Research Study Participants Needed |
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My research team and I are writing to let you know of an exciting opportunity for your online community to participate in a research study. The research study is looking at friendship quality, social participation, and social networks in young adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). We would like to understand the causes and impacts of social deficits in order to contribute to the development of social skills training programs for use with adolescents and young adults. This is our capstone project to partially fulfil our Master's degree, and the Principal Investigator (PI) of the study is Dr. Megan Chang at San Jose State University.
We are recruiting individuals diagnosed with ASD between the ages of 18-35 who have adequate conversational skills. If you believe that your community may be interested in participating in this study or if you would like additional information, please contact myself at
[email protected]. By volunteering, participants may benefit through reflection and may develop increased self-awareness.
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| SDSU Center for Autism Brain Study Needs Volunteers! |
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The SDSU Center for Autism is conducting a behavioral and brain imaging study with youth (7-21 years old) on the spectrum. We are trying to understand how the brain changes as children become young adults.
Participants get a free assessment, a free MRI scan, about $150, and a free picture of their brain! If you are interested, call us at 619-594-0176, or email us at
[email protected]. Thank you!
http://autism.sdsu.edu
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| Volunteers Needed for Study!!! |
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My name is Thanh Nguyen and I am an occupational therapy student at San Jose State University. My group is conducting a cross-cultural (U.S. vs Taiwan) study, examining the differences in occupational participation of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) at home, school and in the community. We are inviting participants who are parents or legal guardians of children with ASD, 9-12 years of age, in the United States to answer an anonymous online survey that takes approximately 20-30 minutes to complete. I would greatly appreciate if you can share this attached flyer in your newsletter so that anyone who is interested in participating in the study can help us fill out the survey.
Here is the link to the survey:
https://sjsu.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_1LBak1TToSe1RTn
Potential participants can also access the survey by scanning the QR code on the flyer.
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| Autism Resources Research |
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