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  1. Psychiatry’s revamped DSM guidebook fuels debate

    For ADHD, the definition is being broadened, meaning the disorder could be diagnosed in more children. In the case of autism, the opposite is true.

    Posted on 5/17/2013 3:51:09 PM

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  2. Temple Grandin on how the autistic 'think different'

    Grandin, a well-known author who has autism, has four times the typical number of connections in a brain area that controls the visual system. That may explain why she goes through life Thinking in Pictures, as her 1996 book described.

    Posted on 5/2/2013 4:04:29 PM

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  3. Young Adults With Autism Can Thrive In High-Tech Jobs

    The job hunt is complicated enough for most high school and college graduates — and even tougher for the growing number of young people on the autism spectrum. Despite the obstacles that people with autism face trying to find work, there's a natural landing place: the tech industry.

    Posted on 4/22/2013 3:57:58 PM

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  4. 5 Ways to Support Adults on the Autism Spectrum When Engaging in Conversation

    Even the most well-intentioned and informed adults can flounder when it comes to communicating effectively with peers, co-workers, classmates, or gym buddies on the autism spectrum. While no two individuals with autism have the same language and social skills, there a few basic courtesies that you can extend to enhance the level of comfort and understanding between you and another.

    Posted on 4/22/2013 3:56:33 PM

    View Full Story


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The 100th Monkey

A story about social change.

 

Today, you are monkey number 99.

 

By Ken Keyes Jr.

 

 

 

 

 

The Japanese monkey, Macaca Fuscata, had been observed in the wild for a period of over 30 years.

 

In 1952, on the island of Koshima, scientists were providing monkeys with sweet potatoes dropped in the sand. The monkey liked the taste of the raw sweet potatoes, but they found the dirt unpleasant.

 

An 18-month-old female named Imo found she could solve the problem by washing the potatoes in a nearby stream. She taught this trick to her mother. Her playmates also learned this new way and they taught their mothers too.

 

This cultural innovation was gradually picked up by various monkeys before the eyes of the scientists. Between 1952 and 1958 all the young monkeys learned to wash the sandy sweet potatoes to make them more palatable. Only the adults who imitated their children learned this social improvement. Other adults kept eating the dirty sweet potatoes.

 

Then something startling took place. In the autumn of 1958, a certain number of Koshima monkeys were washing sweet potatoes -- the exact number is not known. Let us suppose that when the sun rose one morning there were 99 monkeys on Koshima Island who had learned to wash their sweet potatoes. Let's further suppose that later that morning, the hundredth monkey learned to wash potatoes.

 

THEN IT HAPPENED!

 

By that evening almost everyone in the tribe was washing sweet potatoes before eating them. The added energy of this hundredth monkey somehow created an ideological breakthrough!

 

But notice: A most surprising thing observed by these scientists was that the habit of washing sweet potatoes then jumped over the sea...Colonies of monkeys on other islands and the mainland troop of monkeys at Takasakiyama began washing their sweet potatoes.

 

Thus, when a certain critical number achieves an awareness, this new awareness may be communicated from mind to mind.

 

Although the exact number may vary, this Hundredth Monkey Phenomenon means that when only a limited number of people know of a new way, it may remain the conscious property of these people.

 

But there is a point at which if only one more person tunes-in to a new awareness, a field is strengthened so that this awareness is picked up by almost everyone!

 

From the book "The Hundredth Monkey" by Ken Keyes, Jr.    


What's New at Autism Hangout!

Over 500 videos to help us all "thrive with autism!"

 

TWO New Donna Williams Educational Programs!  

I'm always thrilled when Donna puts together something helpful.  And here are two more entrees for our Educational Library.  Here's what she says about...

Autism and medical interventions - my personal experiences:  

"I have lived with significant ongoing health issues all my life. As a person with autism this meant I had a certain way of adjusting to these things.  In this video I talk a bit about the experiences and strategies I've used to handle a wide range of medical treatments."

And here are her comments on...

Social Opportunities on the Autism Spectrum

"As a person diagnosed with autism and living with my own autism 'fruit salad', I also had my own introduction to social challenges when being on the autism spectrum. I've also been a professional autism consultant since 1996, was one of the founders of Autism Network International, one of the founders of Auties.org, have run a writer's group, a choir, a band (all involving those on the autism spectrum) and, together with my husband Chris, hosted walking groups, dinner clubs and other social activities for adults on the autism spectrum. Autism is a 'fruit salad' and so there are a multitude of reasons why someone with autism will struggle with pursuing, initiating or attending social opportunities. Yet every one of those reasons is addressable and social opportunities are essential to helping people with autism develop and enjoy their lives. In this video I explore the obstacles to socialising, tips for overcoming those obstacles and the how-to of advocating for, seeking out, or setting up face to face social opportunities for people on the autism spectrum regardless of level of disabilities or geographical isolation."

As with the rest of Donna's programs, she's only asking enough to help cover some of her costs .  It's $5 for the Autism and medical interventions and $10 for Social Opportunities on the Autism Spectrum.  Here's the link to the Education Library.  Thank you, Donna!!

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Temple's interview for The Economist.  

Temple is on the talk circuit discussing her new book," The Autistic Brain."

This is an expecially interesting interview as she talks about the importance of people on the spectrum geeking out on interests that can serve as employment.  

She also discusses her new focus on sensory issues.  Thank you for bringing the important issues to the general public, Temple.  And thank you, The Economist.    

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Meet Barbara Cook: The founder/publisher/editor of Australian Autism Asperger's Network Magazine

Most of us already know there’s a fabulous community of people involved with autism. Whether you’re on the spectrum or love someone with autism, there are helpful people with positive news everywhere. In fact, the positive news is being piled up so fast, that new mediums and outlets to distribute this encouragement are called for. 
 
And here to answer that call from down under is editor Barbara Cook. Her new, noteworthy entry is a magazine dedicated to “all things related to autism.” Autism Hangout please welcome today’s guest, the founder, publisher and editor of the Australian Autism Asperger’s Network Magazine, Barbara Cook.
 

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"Asperger Love" - An interview with author Amy Harmon

 

Ignorance isn't always bliss.  In fact, ignorance often gets in the way of understanding. For instance, it's some times heard that people with Asperger's/HFA can't express emotion.  Or, even more foolish, people on the spectrum can't fall in love.  To both statements, today's guest has written an e-book on two Aspies and their approach to love. Two-time Pulitzer prize winner and New York Times reporter Amy Harmon writes this "fly on the wall" look at Aspie Love.

 

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This is HUGE - Controversial Doctor and Autism Media Channel Director proven right 

Two landmark events -a government concession in the US Vaccine Court, and a groundbreaking scientific paper – confirm that physician, scientist, and AMC Director, Dr. Andrew Wakefield, and the parents were right all along.  Read the complete story here.  And apparently, you can only see the video here:  http://www.autismmediachannel.com

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Autism Hangout welcomes new sponsor Australian Autism Asperger's Network!  

From their website:  "The Australian Autism Aspergers Network Magazine will be the first of its kind in Australia, solely dedicate to all things related to the Autism Spectrum. We want to cover all topics from children, adults, men, women, individuals, couples, divorced, single, gay, relationships, friendships – even taboo topics will be covered. We want to show Australia and the world that people on the spectrum have an amazing amount to offer as well as the difficulties that so many struggle with. The magazine will also bring up to date research, health professional advice and their own discoveries, latest book reviews, a section on computers, art and music, education, plus dedicated columns for each issue from respected writers."

 

Welcome to the Hangout!  Looking forward to interviewing you folks!

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Jessica Kingsley to publish "Been There. Done That. Try This!"

Jessica Kingsley Publishing has offered to publish a book of Aspie Wisdom.  "Been There. Done That. Try This!" is a compliation of insightful, helpful essays and stories submitted by "Aspie Mentors." ... older people with Asperger's/HFA that have gained their understanding from first-hand experience.  

Based on reserach of the most stressful issues faced by someone with Asperger's.

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World-renowned Fraser introduces new housing option for Minnesota-based people on the spectrum

In this "Movin' Out" interview, Fraser Program Manager Jessica Enneking describes Fraser's existing housing and introduces Woodstone Apartments as an example of their "Supportive Living" option.  

For more info:  www.fraser.org

 
For more info:  www.fraser.org

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CAR FUMES, lead and air pollution!  These could be the causes!! 

I just read a report on a correlation between an increased occurrence in crime and human exposure to lead (in the environment).  This announcement comes about a month after the discovery of increased occurrence of autism with an increase in air pollution including car fumes.

Looks like we're getting closer to the smoking gun... or in this case, car.  Read more here (the article on LEAD) and here (the article on autism and air pollution including car fumes).  

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10 Aspies Speak out About School Shooting

Aspie Mentors Anita Lesko, Temple Grandin, Jennifer Cook O'Toole & John O'Toole, Rudy Simone, Bob Castleman, Paul Isaac, Jane Strauss, Debbie Denenburg and Dena Gassner have written their reactions to the Sandy Hook tragedy.  

You can read them here

 

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Meet ACR Homes!  A "Movin' Out" Feature Program Series

Minnesota-based ACR Homes has been assisting adults with mental and physical challenges for 30 years . Now they're moving into homes for people on the spectrum. 

In this installment, Resident House Supervisor Annie Giddings and Director of Development Deb Nygaard discuss ACR's philosophies and practices. A tour of one of their group homes is included!

More on ACR Homes here: www.acrhomes.com

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Sensory Overload (Interacting with Autism Project) 

I just noticed this wonderful animation on Vimeo. It's for NT's to help them appreciate just how overwhelming everyday, common sensory stimulation can be.

This beautiful film was done by Miguel Jiron.

 

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Here is what is contained in Part 1 - Questions from people with Asperger's:Dr. Tony is back with insights and answers to your questions about autism!

- Am I over reacting?
- Aspies as psychologists
- Autism and personality disorder
- Swallowing and thumb sucking
- Disclosure and having children

Link to Part 1 here.


Here is Part 2 - Questions from people with Asperger's about diagnosis:
- Finding a qualified diagnostician
- Undiagnosed Aspie friends
- Carrying autism credentials
- Social skills frequently change
- Can autism be "learned?"

Link to Part 2 here.

 

Part 3 - Questions from people who love people with Asperger's/autism:
- How can one motivate an Aspie?
- Autism and sleep disorders
- Socializing is important
- Autism credentials for a crisis
- Working with non-verbal people

Link to Part 3 here.

 

Part 4 - More questions from people who love people with Asperger's/autism:
- Describing friend circles
- One role of imaginative play
- Dealing with bullies in the family
- Toileting regression

Link to Part 4 here.



Dr. Tony's URL is: www.tonyattwood.com.au.  Thank you Dr. T!!

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New Donna Williams Videos added to the Education Library!

Donna has returned with four new insightful additions!  The first of these programs deals with Toileting.  Donna is very aware of the wide range of issues that can come together as a 'toileting drama' for someone with autism. In this video she takes people through the wide range of underlying issues and their associated low/no cost strategies and approaches.

 

The second focuses on Disassociation.  In this video Donna explains why, where Dissociative disorders fit in with autism and what kinds of strategies and approaches can address this piece of 'autism fruit salad'.

 

 

In this Program, Donna explains how attachment disorders can also occur in people who have never experienced abuse, neglect or inconsistency of carers. 

 

 

In this video Donna introduces the viewer to some of the reasons why some functionally non verbal people with autism have confused their audience into believing there was no point trialling typed communication. She also presents resources where people can look at wonderful examples of facilitated and augmented communication in action. 

Thanks Donna!!

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"Never doubt that a small group of committed people can change the world."

 

"If we are to achieve a richer culture, rich in contrasting values, we must recognize the whole gamut of human potentialities, and so weave a less arbitrary social fabric, one in which each diverse human gift will find a fitting place."  

Margaret Mead

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Dr. Tony on "Aspie Mentors" and "Been there. Done that. Try this!"

Dr. Tony Attwood and Craig Evans discuss their forthcoming book with Anita Lesko: "Been there. Done that. Try this! An Aspinaut's Guide to Life on Planet Earth." The book compiles stories and insights from valuable "Aspie Mentor" experiences addressing the 17 most pressing and stressing issues facing younger Aspergians. 

"We want to take this Aspie Mentor concept and really make a contribution. So younger people with Asperger's don't have to suffer some of the trials their older peers did." - Craig Evans

The research survey is online now. If you have Asperger's, please give us your input: www.surveymonkey.com/s/aspiequestions

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"The advice from our book is not just for people formally diagnosed with Asperger's.  There are tens if not hundreds of thousands of individuals now living with similar social  challenges.  These people are making their way in life but have always felt there is something a little different about them.  I'm a perfect example of that.  I was diagnosed in my 50's.  But understanding more about my condition has freed me to be the unique individual I am!  
 
Our goal in writing this book is to share wisdom and insights to help people live rich, full lives… and to be the best individuals they can be!" - Author Anita Lesko
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Announcing the Aspie Mentor Book Series:  "Been there. Done that. Try this! An Aspinaut's guide to life on planet Earth!"

This is big news, folks!  What Dr. Tony and I have been talking about for two years now is about to come to pass!  

Dr. Tony Attwood and I have teamed up with author and 
Aspie Mentor, Anita Lesko to write the first in a series of books entitled "Been there. Done that. Try this! An Aspinaut's guide to life on planet Earth!"  We see this compilation of wisdom and advice as an extraordinary asset to all people with Asperger's.  LIsten to this report for more.  And don't miss what Anita has to say about the project.  

And if you're someone with Asperger's PLEASE FOLLOW THIS LINK TO THE SURVEY!  We need to know the questions YOU would most like to ask of an Aspie Mentor.  

Stay tuned for more updates on this most exciting effort! In the meantime, here's a link to Anita's site.  

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Announcing "Been there. Done that. Try this! An Aspinaut's guide to life on planet Earth." The first of the Aspie Mentor book series - A collaborative effort between Dr. Tony Attwood, author Anita Lesko ("Born with Aspergers") and Craig Evans of Autism Hangout (dotcom).

 

 

Hear Anita describe the inspiration behind the effort.  

 

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New Vendors in the Autism Hangout "Farmer's Market!"

Listen to an Invitation to businesses offering autism-related products and services... and see who's already coming!  

See ALL our vendors here.  

 

Meet Rachel Arntson and her Kids Express Train teaching tools!

While I was at the Autism Shop's Grand Opening, I ran into Rachel Arntson, a Speech and Learning Pathologist thats developed an incredible line of teaching tools!

In this video, Rachel demonstrates the how they work... and why they're so successful.

More at: www.expresstrain.org or order at www.autismshop.com

***

For a complete listing of all Autism Hangout Farmer's Market vendors, go here

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"Frailin with Friends!"  Happy music to brighten your day!

Autism Hangout founder Craig Evans talks about his recently released "Frailin' with Friends" CD. "This CD of happy music was assembled as a day-brightener for those living with the daily challenges of autism. I'm also using all the proceeds from sales to fund Autism Hangout."

Sample cuts from "Frailin' with Friends" can be heard at: www.autismhangout.com/directory/store.asp. Orders can be placed at the same URL.

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* Autism Hangout is looking for writers and video producers of positive, helpful messages about autism. Contact Craig Evans.

Click here for a welcome message from Autism Hangout founder, Craig Evans.

 

ATTEN: Autism thought-leaders!

Post your work here for the autism community to see! Please feel free to use the Discussion Forum or create your own Home Page (complete with pics, blogs and videos). Welcome!



Webinars RSS Feed

Dr. Stephen Shore & Donna Williams: Autism as Strengths

Meet "Raising a Sensory Smart Child" Author Lindsey Biel
Meet "Raising a Sensory Smart Child" Author Lindsey Biel

The Power of Music and Autism
The Power of Music and Autism

"Movin' Out!" Specialized Housing Consultant George Braddock on Homes for People w/ Autism
"Movin' Out!" Specialized Housing Consultant George Braddock on Homes for People w/ Autism

Rachel Rosenman from ALUT talks about autism in Israel
Rachel Rosenman from ALUT talks about autism in Israel



Feature Programs RSS Feed

World-renowned Fraser introduces new housing option for Minnesota-based people on the spectrum

5 Minutes with Dr. Stephen Shore at the Advancing with Autism Conference - 12/14/12
5 Minutes with Dr. Stephen Shore at the Advancing with Autism Conference - 12/14/12

Dr. Tony Returns! Four new installments of answers to your questions. PART 1
Dr. Tony Returns! Four new installments of answers to your questions. PART 1

Kyle Tomson introduces Tense Builder - More "apps for autism"
Kyle Tomson introduces Tense Builder - More "apps for autism"

"Autism in the Workplace. job Success!" - Chef Tom Dickinson returns
"Autism in the Workplace. job Success!" - Chef Tom Dickinson returns


Special Reports RSS Feed

Meet Barbara Cook: The founder/publisher/editor of Australian Autism Asperger's Network Magazine

"Asperger Love" - An interview with author Amy Harmon
"Asperger Love" - An interview with author Amy Harmon

Jessica Kingsley to publish "Been There. Done That. Try This!"
Jessica Kingsley to publish "Been There. Done That. Try This!"

Calling all spectrum artists! We’re looking for original art!
Calling all spectrum artists! We’re looking for original art!

Did you know ? Facts on Asperger
Did you know ? Facts on Asperger


   


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