-
Webinar: Preparing for Puberty in Children with Autism
In this recorded webinar, Cora Taylor, PhD, discusses puberty in individuals with special developmental needs, including: Helping children understand and prepare for body changes associated with puberty Encouraging good hygiene Understanding public/private behaviors Handling issues...
-
Preparing School-Age Students for Post-Secondary Education
Preparing school-age students with autism for the transition into post-secondary education is perhaps as challenging for teachers as it is daunting for parents. According to a National Autism Indicators Report, “Young adults with autism have a difficult time following high school for almost any...
-
Overcoming Challenges with Technology: One Individual’s Journey from Hospitalization to a Career
Individuals with complex profiles can display behaviors that are dangerous enough to lead to frequent involvement with police and hospitalizations. Such was the case for Bob (pseudonym), who had a history of significant aggression, property destruction, and elopement behaviors. Bob lived at home...
-
Being Smarter with Smarter Tech: YAI Center for Innovation and Engagement
Technology is an essential part of all of our lives. It can have a profound impact, whether allowing us to connect with family; reminding us to take medication; or keeping us safe at home, at work, or on the road. The coronavirus pandemic has only highlighted the centrality of technology for...
-
Using Cell Phones to Increase Independence in the Community for Young Adults with Autism
All individuals deserve to be active members of the community in which they reside. However, independent societal participation for young people with disabilities, particularly those with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) who also have a secondary disability diagnosis (e.g., intellectual disability)...
-
Cultivating Independence Through Technology
Is it possible to live independently with a disability? This question is often a source of concern for those with a disability like autism. However, it is important to remember that independence can look different for everyone, and technology can play a valuable role in fostering independence. At...
-
Prevention of Abuse and Neglect: Melmark’s Organizational Approach
There is always concern among both family members and providers that abuse and neglect of vulnerable populations can occur. Horror stories of such treatment have been chronicled in history, and there are still current reports of such atrocities (e.g., Bailey & Burch, 2016). As an organization,...
-
Values-Based Behavior Planning – Responding to Challenging Behaviors for Individuals with Complex Profiles via Comprehensive Planning
Though a small percentage, some individuals with autism and other developmental disabilities can display dangerous challenging behaviors such as high intensity aggression or self-injury. While the field of applied behavior analysis has made great strides in the assessment and treatment of...
-
Ensuring Safety in an Inclusive Workplace
According to the Office of Disability Employment Policy, “Americans on the autism spectrum experience substantial challenges to attaining competitive integrated employment opportunities that match their interests, gifts, and talents. They experience substantial unemployment and underemployment,...
-
Smart Home Technology and Autism
Good parents worry about their children’s safety. For most, this centers on keeping toddlers away from medicine, sharp objects, electrical outlets and other physical dangers in the home. As children grow, parents can usually start worrying less about these things and focus on their children’s...
