They are prepared by Autism Hangout Staff Reporters as well as the newsmakers themselves (i.e. guest columnists, researchers, dignitaries/notables and interested Autism Hangout members).

All SPECIAL REPORTS have links to threads in the Discussion Forum (if you'd care to share your experience or insights with others).

"Any fact facing us is not as important as our attitude toward it, for that determines our success or failure."

Norman Vincent Peale

"Where Words Fail, Music Speaks" - Meet Music Therapist Jessica Grooms

If you know of Donna Williams and Dr. Stephen Shore, you've witnessed the incredible power of music in reaching people on the spectrum. Both give testament to the role music played in connecting them with the world.

If you've not yet considered music therapy for your child, listen to Music Therapist Jessica Grooms explain what it is and how it can be used.

Jessica's website is: www.jgmusictherapy.com

Jessica will be back with more helpful Programs on the use of music for speech development, communications, social skills, sensory issues and cognitive development support.

Discuss this in the forums

Posted on 4/7/2010 10:44:50 AM by cevans

The iPad and Autism: One Family's Story of Success.	Introducing Fun and Function (dotcom) - An Autism Hangout Farmers Market Member
Introducing Black Barn Bakery - A Member of the Autism Hangout Farmers Market	Coming Soon: The Autism Hangout Farmer's Market
Autism Websites: Resources and Information - Mark Wirbel for Autism Hangout (dotcom)	"Model Me Kids" Social Skills videos by Sue Klein
Coming soon! The Autism Hangout "Education Section" - A Call for Content!	Autism and grades: Measures of ability...or disability?
An "Attitude of Gratitude" - An Autism Hangout Special Report	"Frailin' with Friends" - Happy Music for a Great Cause!

More Special Reports

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Connecting With Your Asperger Partner - Meet author Louise Weston

Neurotypical Louise Weston has an excellent relationship with her Asperger husband Graham. She'll be the first to tell you it required work. But she's equally as quick to tell you, others can experience the same level of satisfaction in marriage, if one chooses to work on it. Louise has compiled a book on her experiences and insights as well as those from others in similar relationships. The end product - "Connecting With Your Asperger Partner: Negotiating the Maze of Intimacy" - is chocked full of tips, advice and hope.

Posted on 8/4/2010 4:45:12 PM

Partners in Excellence - An Autism Therapy Center. Meet owner/operator Deb Thomas

I went on the road to Burnsville, MN today to visit an Autism Therapy Center I’ve been hearing a lot about. The company is called Partners in Excellence. It’s dedicated to helping equip our special kids for the world in which they live… and it’s been achieving success. It’s run by a vibrant, positive, dedicated woman named Deb Thomas. In this Autism Hangout Special Report, I let her tell you the story.

Posted on 7/28/2010 9:32:24 AM

"Developing College Skills in Students with Autism and Asperger's Syndrome"

Many of our special kids will have the chance to go to college. But as parents will tell you, getting in isn’t the only challenge… or, in some cases, the REAL CHALLENGE. Staying in school requires new skills. Learning and practicing the right skills and disciplines will assure our students a successful college experience. Today’s autism expert - Dr. Sarita Freedman - has just written the book on this subject. It’s called: "Developing College Skills in Students with Autism and Asperger's Syndrome."

Posted on 7/20/2010 3:24:06 PM

"Life After High School: A Guide for Students with Disabilities and Their Families"

Meet authors Susan Yellin and Christina Cacioppo Bertsch. These two seasoned professionals have combined their knowledge in a book designed to help those with disabilities prepare-for and succeed-in college and/or their chosen careers. The book is based on real people (case study approach) and is full of helpful resources. Another excellent contribution by Jessica Kingsley Publishing. More info at: www.lifeafterhsbook.com

Posted on 7/16/2010 9:34:44 AM