Autism Hangout Special Reports Feed

"Libraries and Autism: We're Connected!" A Program Making Libraries Autism-friendly... and more.

cevans@autismhangout.com — Mon, 1 Mar 2010 16:44 CST

Here is one more GREAT Program opening doors to our special kids!

Meet Dan Weiss and Meg Kolaya, directors at Fanwood Memorial Library and Scotch Planes Public Library (respectively). These folks have assembled a remarkable Program and video that assists libraries in better serving this special population of patrons.

In the process, the Program also educates the public AND offers opportunities for the library to facilitate social groups of people on the spectrum (including their parents). It's extraordinary! The best news is, libraries all across the world are signing up. Thank you Meg and Dan!

Learn more at www.thejointlibrary.org/autism

"Breathe. 52 Oxygen Rich Tools for Loving and Living Well with Autism." A Book by Gayle Nobel

cevans@autismhangout.com — Mon, 22 Feb 2010 14:54 CST

Gayle is back with a new book filled with attitude-lifting tools and inspirations for loving and living well with autism.

Take it from one that knows (Gayle is an experienced parent of one on the spectrum). Her advice is priceless... for all those living with the daily challenges of autism.

For more information or to order a book, go to: www.autismwithattitude.com

"Make Friends with Autism" (dotorg) - A Community Education Initiative

cevans@autismhangout.com — Wed, 17 Feb 2010 14:26 CST

Meet Adrienne Robertiello, Community Autism Educator for Children's Specialized Hospital in New Brunswick, NJ. Thanks to a generous grant and partnership with Kohl's the Hospital has now launched www.makefriendswithautism.org - a community education initiative about autism.

"It's the first and only program designed to educate businesses about autism and provide tools to support positive community interactions." All the materials are free and downloadable and soon will be available in both English and Spanish.

See more at: www.makefriendswithautism.org

"Islands of Genius: The Bountiful Mind of the Autistic, Acquired, and Sudden Savant"

cevans@autismhangout.com — Tue, 16 Feb 2010 13:58 CST

Dr. Darold Treffert has spent almost 50 years studying the extraordinary mind of the savant. In this candid discussion, he provides insight, encouragement and techniques to help parents of autistic children develop their child's possible, savant tendencies.

Dr. Treffert is every bit as excited about his research today as he was 50 years ago. The brain has such potential... as do our special kids!

More information at: www.savantsyndrome.com

Write Dr. Treffert here: daroldt@charter.net

"Getting an Independent Educational Evaluation (IEE) at Public Expense" - Attorney David Tollner

cevans@autismhangout.com — Fri, 12 Feb 2010 12:44 CST

In this Autism Hangout Special Report, Special Education Legal Services attorney David Tollner addresses the 6-rules necessary to get an Independent Educational Evaluation (IEE) at Public Expense.

David's advice is based on years of his legal experience dealing with families of special needs kids.

His resume reads:
Special Education legal services for parents struggling to receive the appropriate education for their child with disabilities. David is the former Executive Director of Pacific Autism Center for Education in Sunnyvale and Rebekah Children's Services in Gilroy, as well as a civil litigator in San Jose for 13 years.

David's 6 rules for "Getting an Independent Educational Evaluation at Public Expense" are summarized at the end of the video.

For more information or to contact David, his email address is: davidtollner@gmail.com

"Unique Kids, Unique Surroundings" - Meet author/designer Lauren Henry

cevans@autismhangout.com — Fri, 5 Feb 2010 11:49 CST

It's always a delight to welcome back someone making new, positive contributions to the lives of our special kids. In this interview, Lauren Henry, founder of With A Brush Of Love returns to discuss her new book "Unique Kids, Unique Surroundings: Creative, 'Green', Budget-Conscious Ways to Design the Ideal Environment for Children with Autism and Special Needs."

Parents, caregivers, teachers and more can benefit from Lauren's insights on colors, textures and - most importantly - meeting the needs of the child and the space.

For more on Lauren or to order a book, visit: www.brushoflove.com

Donna Williams Comments on the Autism Hangout Education Library - An Autism Hangout Special Report

cevans@autismhangout.com — Mon, 1 Feb 2010 13:13 CST

Author, singer/songwriter, screenwriter and sculptor Donna Williams returns to talk about her contributions to the Autism Hangout Education Library. She also offers an invitation for others on the spectrum to use this tool to describe their learnings about autism (and possibly profit from it).

In this interview, Donna describes her last 3 contributions to the Educational Library:

* Meaning Deafness, Meaning Blindness, Body Disconnectedness; Agnosias in the Context of Autism,

* Navigating Involuntary and Managing Voluntary Behaviours on the Autism Spectrum and

*Battling With Books.

Find all these WONDERFUL Programs here: http://www.autismhangout.com/education/

Find out more about Donna here: www.donnawilliams.net

Mitra Ahani's "Let's Cook" Update: Free Viewing! - An Autism Hangout Special Report

cevans@autismhangout.com — Wed, 27 Jan 2010 08:14 CST

Mitra Ahani of route2language (dotcom) and co-creator of "Let's Cook" announces free viewing of the entire "Lets Cook" series!

Mywire (dotcom) has generously donated the program to parents, caregivers and educators to use to involve kids on the spectrum with the skills, socialization and fun offered though the preparation of meals.

The series is available at www.mywire.com under "Featured Publications."

Contact Mitra Ahani at: www.route2language.com

Succeeding In The Workplace - A conversation with "Asperger's On the Job" author Rudy Simone

cevans@autismhangout.com — Fri, 15 Jan 2010 16:58 CST

In this interview, Rudy Simone, author of "22 Things a Woman Must Know If She Loves A Man With Asperger's Syndrome" discusses the May release of two new books: "Aspergirls: Empowering Females with Asperger's Syndrome" and "Asperger's On the Job."

Rudy also talks about her newly assembled "Asperger's On the Job" Educational Program - a video + Powerpoint presentation based on her book - that is now available in the Autism Hangout Education Library. This program contains worksheets for determining ideal job categories (based on interest), interviewing tips and advice for how one on the spectrum can succeed on a job.

For more info, see Rudy's "Asperger's On the Job" series located in the Education Library at Autism Hangout.

Follow this link to her Program in the Education Library: http://www.autismhangout.com/education/list.asp?id=5

And here's a link to her website: www.help4aspergers.com

Meet Author Mary Calhoun Brown - An Autism Hangout Special Report

cevans@autismhangout.com — Thu, 7 Jan 2010 08:47 CST

Author Mary Calhoun Brown's latest book - "There Are No Words" - explores the world through the eyes and thoughts of a young, non-speaking girl with autism. It's a charming, delightful, hopeful read.

In this interview, Mary talks about her inspiration for the book, her motives for writing, and her plans for helping others understand more about the challenges disabled people face. Through her "creative writing" classroom work, Mary also is excited to inspire a new generation of writers.

More on Mary at: www.marycalhounbrown.com

Meet Author Mary Calhoun Brown - An Autism Hangout Special Report

cevans@autismhangout.com — Thu, 7 Jan 2010 08:35 CST

Author Mary Calhoun Brown's latest book - "There Are No Words" - explores the world through the eyes and thoughts of a young, non-speaking girl with autism. It's a charming, delightful, hopeful read.

More on Mary, here: www.marycalhounbrown.com

Mother Nature and the Beautiful Mind of Mr. Kim Peek

cevans@autismhangout.com — Sun, 27 Dec 2009 13:57 CST

The passing of the real "Rain man," Mr. Kim Peek is indeed cause for reflection. The man recalled over 98% of the content of 9,000+ books! What a wonderful example of the potential for Mother Nature's extremes.

Autism can be seen as Mother Nature's ongoing attempt to improve our species. Environment is clearly one of the triggers for her experimentation. And our special kids are evidence that she's at work. As parents of kids with autism, we're the first line of science. We need to pay close attention to - and learn from - the results of her efforts. Mr. Peek is one incredible example of what we may find!

Meet Deena Hoagland and Island Dolphin Care

cevans@autismhangout.com — Tue, 24 Nov 2009 12:21 CST

In treating autism, there are a few proven therapies, although that list is growing. Partially because of that, the interest in alternative therapies has never been higher. Indeed, folks are taking their special kids to experience surfing in California, horses in Mongolia and dolphins in Key Largo, Florida. Today we're going to learn of the latter.

For more information: www.islanddolphincare.org

Write Deena at: fonzi@islanddolphincare.org
Or call: 305.451.5884

Parenting and Autism: What's Really Important - L. Mae Wilkinson

cevans@autismhangout.com — Mon, 23 Nov 2009 07:55 CST

Parents of children with autism aren't much different than those with typically developing children. Developing confidence, regard for others, self-control and strengths (as much as or more than ameliorating weaknesses) in our children seem to be top priorities.

Visit L. Mae Wilkinson's blog: www.autismisnottheboss.com

Maximum Potential Kids! At-home, At-school ABA curriculum

cevans@autismhangout.com — Fri, 6 Nov 2009 12:53 CST

Garrett and Christy Butch are extraordinarily compassionate people. They're also very driven. They're driven to find a way for other families experiencing autism to benefit from ABA without the expense or the hassle. They didn't have that luxury... so they're providing for others that come after them.

Garrett and Christy founded Maximum Potential Kids (dotcom)... a company "committed to providing the highest quality of support for children with autism." They've developed an affordable, recognized, disc-based ABA curriculum to teach parents, educators and others in the child's environment how to use the time-proven therapy.

For more info, see: www.maximumpotentialkids.com or call 877.629.7654

Coming soon! The Autism Hangout "Education Section"

cevans@autismhangout.com — Fri, 6 Nov 2009 09:28 CST

I’m building out a new section at Autism Hangout to help decrease the amount of time it takes for current thought on "how to thrive with autism" information to reach the general autism population… those of us that need tips, wisdom and insights NOW to help us best live with the condition. I’m calling it the "Education Section". It will consist of Autism Hangout-prepared and autism expert-contributed materials. Some examples can include: Conference presentations, articles, tips for better living and more.

Who is an autism expert? Anyone with wisdom, knowledge, tips or insights to share that will allow us all to thrive with autism. That includes, parents, teachers and professionals as well as authors, researchers and conference speakers.

Got something to contribute? Write me! cevans@autismhangout.com

"R U Autistic? Ask Ur iPhone!" - Meet Developer Graham Streeter

cevans@autismhangout.com — Wed, 4 Nov 2009 14:54 CST

Documentary producer/director Graham Streeter (Imperative Pictures) teamed up with Dr. Simon Baron Cohen to bring the AQ (Autism Quotient) test to the iPhone. The AQ test is a proven tool to measure one's "autistic traits."

In addition to his film work, Graham Streeter, a former Apple employee funded the development of the iPhone AQ test tool to help familiarize the general population to the occurrence of this condition. "We're all a little bit autistic." But most of us can use it to our advantage!

For more on the AQ test, Google "AQ test iPhone"

For more on Graham Streeter and Imperative Pictures, go to: www.normalfolk.com

Mark Wirbel on the H1N1 Vaccine - An Autism Hangout Special Report

cevans@autismhangout.com — Tue, 20 Oct 2009 12:35 CST

As a parent of a child on the spectrum, Mark is keenly aware of the inherent risks associated with vaccines. In this very candid report, Mark shares his concerns.

If you too have an opinion, please share it in the Autism Hangout Discussion Forum linked to this report.

Aspergers On the Job. Meet Author Rudy Simone

cevans@autismhangout.com — Fri, 11 Sep 2009 16:32 CST

Autism author, advocate and individual on the spectrum, Rudy Simone visits with Craig Evans about her latest book: "Aspergers On the Job" (Future Horizons Publisher).

This book, written for employers, HR professionals and people with autism details Aspergian behavior and provides clear direction for how these valuable employees - with understanding and facilitation - can succeed in the workplace.

For more information on Rudy and her book, visit: www.help4aspergers.com

An Interview with Attitude Author Gayle Nobel - An Autism Hangout Special Report

cevans@autismhangout.com — Wed, 9 Sep 2009 14:45 CST

Author and autism advocate Gayle Nobel stops by Autism Hangout to chat with Craig Evans about her newest book (working title: "Breathe"... set for a late fall '09 release).

Gayle is an expert on how to maintain a GREAT attitude when dealing with the daily challenges of life with autism.

More on Gayle and her books here: www.autismwithattitude.com

"Frailin' with Friends" - Happy Music for a Great Cause!

cevans@autismhangout.com — Wed, 19 Aug 2009 20:05 CST

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

An "Attitude of Gratitude" - An Autism Hangout Special Report

cevans@autismhangout.com — Tue, 18 Aug 2009 12:15 CST

If you've got a child on the spectrum, you pretty quickly figure out that YOUR positive attitude is one of your best strengths. Life with autism can be challenging. But if you look deeper, you can find reasons and moments to be grateful. Indeed, an "attitude of gratitude" will open the door to your being able to "thrive with autism."

Here are a few other reasons I'm grateful!

"Better Living Through Autism" - An Autism Hangout Special Report

cevans@autismhangout.com — Wed, 12 Aug 2009 11:25 CST

You know, it occurred to me the other day... in living the best life we can for our special kids (free of the bad stuff like chemicals, additives, unnecessary ingredients), we're really being FORCED to behave in the manner of a responsible citizen if of the planet earth. That's NOT a bad thing! In fact, we can show that it's really NOT that hard to do, either... and make the world a better place in the process.

I may be returning to my hippie roots, here. But with a 30 year career in business under my belt, I'm corporate and capitalist smart... and I KNOW where we spend our dollars DOES make a difference. We CAN change the world for the better. And we start with our purchases. So here's a plan: "Better Living Through Autism."

Pass it on.

It's All About Attitude Moment #3- Moments of Love by Author Gayle Nobel

cevans@autismhangout.com — Mon, 10 Aug 2009 09:12 CST

Author Gayle Nobel shares Chapter 3 from her book "It's All About Attitude: Loving and Living Well With Autism." Chapter 3 is titled Moments of Love.

Not EVERY moment with your child need be a therapy moment. A great attitude opens the door for not just surviving, but thriving with autism. Slow down. Look for the special times... and moments. The more you notice them, those moments of love are worth reflecting and exploring.

"Spotlight the moments of love in your mind and in your heart. They are there, waiting to be found and then celebrated. They will lift you up from the inside out."

Sage advice! Thanks, Gayle!

Autism Hangout Announces Webinar Series - An 8/3/2009 Update

cevans@autismhangout.com — Mon, 3 Aug 2009 14:31 CST

Autism Hangout announces Five Webinar Series (beginning in the fall of '09):

* Autism Crossroads - Advice and discussion around age-related, autism issues.

* "Movin' Out" - Next steps and options for kids on the spectrum approaching adulthood.

* "Hot Off the Press" - Topical conversations with today's authors.

* Developmental Tools/Best Practices - What's working in treatments, therapies and teaching practices.

* Autism Around the Globe - Conversations about autism in other countries, and what they're doing.

Dates and times of webinars along with guest experts will be announced prior to air. Webinars can be viewed "live" (during taping) at www.livestream.com/autismhangout.

Each Series will be archived at Autism Hangout (for repeat viewings) and updated on a regular basis.

Autism Hangout Webinars are designed to deliver insights and current thought... so that we all may "thrive with autism."