Autism programs focus on early intervention

This is a great article in the Toledo Blade on line. The children have one on one with a teacher. Wow! I wonder how this is funded! You can read more and watch actual video clips at http://toledoblade.com/article/20100307/NEWS32/3070309/-1/news13

Lily Lyons was reading books while still in her crib, but speech continues to mostly elude the 3 1/2-year-old Toledo girl.

Although Lily didn't speak a word before enrolling in Mercy Children's Hospital's intensive preschool for autistic children in April, she now talks some - and uses a specialized picture book to communicate with her family. Her twin brother, Luke, who also is autistic and attends the same preschool, has advanced from speaking a few words to talking in complete sentences.

Such progress helps show that intensive early intervention is critical for those with autism, a developmental disability that can affect communication and behavior in varying degrees. Lily and Luke were diagnosed shortly after turning 2 and were enrolled in Mercy's Clinic Home Intensive Program in hopes of improving their education.

Save the date

Saturday, May 1, 2010

Special Needs Mini Conference at Catawba College for 8:30-12:00

Great sessions for parents
Many booths with community resources

Tip of the Week - Following a Morning Schedule

Tip of the Week: Increase your child’s independence

Establishing a morning routine for your child with autism is a great way to increase independence, as well as make sure everyone gets out of the house on time.

Follow this link: http://www.rethinkautism.com/community/news/Story.aspx?ID=429

Strategies for your child's behavior

This week you'll see some other possible functions of problem behavior, and more strategies so that you can manage your child's behavior.

Follow the link:

http://www.rethinkautism.com/community/news/Story.aspx?ID=421

Would you like to learn how to manage your child's problem behavior?

For families of children with autism, dealing with problem behavior at home, school and in the community can be a challenge. In order to come up with solutions, you must first understand the purpose or "function" of the problem behavior. Follow the below link and watch the short video clip for ideas:

http://www.rethinkautism.com/community/news/Story.aspx?ID=420