Guide Archives - Living with Autismhttps://101autism.com Autism Resources for DaylifeTue, 18 Nov 2025 10:45:14 +0000en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.9https://101autism.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/101-1.pngGuide Archives - Living with Autismhttps://101autism.com 3232Halloween Autism Safety Guide 2025: Fun, Comfort & Safety for Every Childhttps://101autism.com/halloween-autism-safety-guide-2025-fun-comfort-safety-for-every-child/ https://101autism.com/halloween-autism-safety-guide-2025-fun-comfort-safety-for-every-child/#respondThu, 16 Oct 2025 13:17:03 +0000https://101autism.com/?p=690220For parents and caregivers — Halloween can be magical and overwhelming. This friendly guide helps you plan a sensory-aware, safe, and fun night. It includes practical steps, scripts, and gear that genuinely help.
TL;DR (Quick Wins)
Preview the plan with a simple visual schedule and clear start/end times.
Test costumes for comfort (tags, seams, temperature). Bring a backup layer.
Use visibility: reflective tape, clip-on lights, or glow sticks.
Choose a short, familiar route and go before dark if possible.
Have a “pause/go home” signal card or hand sign.
Consider non-food treats (Teal Pumpkin) and label clothing/ID bracelet.
Why Halloween Can Be Tricky — And Totally Doable
Unfamiliar costumes, crowds, noises, and changes to routine can overload the senses. The key is predictability + comfort: preview what will happen. Make the route and timing easy. Build in quick “calm breaks.”
Prep Week: Comfort First
Walk the route early (daytime) and note safe crossings and “calm spots” (park bench, car).
Practice the costume for 10–15 min: check tags, seams, warmth, hats/masks. Prefer face paint over masks.
Make a visual schedule (pictures or icons): get dressed → short walk → 5 houses → home hot chocolate.
Set expectations with a social story: one page with simple “first/then,” bonus stickers, and an end time.
Safety basics: label clothing, use an ID bracelet, and consider a discreet tracker (AirTag/Tile) if appropriate.
Trick-or-Treat Safety Plan
Route & timing: familiar, short, and earlier in the evening. One adult per child if needed.
Visibility: reflective tape on sleeves/hem, clip-on lights, or glow sticks. Keep hands free.
Communication: bring a simple “script card”: “Trick or Treat” / “Thank you!” or use AAC app — both are perfect.
Food flexibility: check labels, swap candy later for preferred snacks or small toys; look for Teal Pumpkin homes.
Stay regulated: offer micro-breaks every 10–15 minutes; use headphones/sunglasses when needed.
At-Home Alternatives (Same Fun, Less Stress)
Treat Station at home with favorite snacks and small toys.
Micro-party with 1–2 trusted friends/family; soft lighting, short games (sticker bingo, glow bubbles).
Scavenger hunt around the living room with picture clues.
Cozy movie night with weighted lap pad and warm drink.
Is it OK to skip trick-or-treating? Yes. A home treat station or scavenger hunt can deliver the same joy with less stress.
What if my child won’t wear a costume? Choose comfy clothes in a Halloween color (orange/black/purple) or a favorite character T-shirt — participation, not perfection.
How do I handle candy and allergies? Sort together, read labels, and consider swaps for preferred snacks or non-food rewards. Look for Teal Pumpkin homes offering non-food treats.
What’s a simple safety step that helps most? Visibility + predictability: reflective tape/lights and a clear visual schedule with a pre-agreed end time.
Editor’s note: This guide is for general education and is not medical advice. Adapt to your child’s needs and consult your care team when needed.
]]>https://101autism.com/halloween-autism-safety-guide-2025-fun-comfort-safety-for-every-child/feed/0690220Top Autism Schools in Indiana: A Guide for Parentshttps://101autism.com/top-autism-schools-in-indiana-a-guide-for-parents/ https://101autism.com/top-autism-schools-in-indiana-a-guide-for-parents/#commentsFri, 15 Aug 2025 07:54:26 +0000https://101autism.com/?p=688306
Your quick guide to the best autism education and therapy options in the Hoosier State
15+
Top Schools & Centers
5:1
Best Student-Staff Ratios
K-22
Ages Served
Best Autism Schools & Programs
Hopebridge Autism Therapy Center
Why it’s #1: Complete “360 Care” model with diagnosis, ABA, speech, OT, and family support all in one location. Multiple Indianapolis locations.
Applied Behavior Center for Autism
Standout feature: Same-day verbal diagnosis, comprehensive ABA programs, and clinical oversight across multiple Indiana locations.
Little Star Center (LittleStar ABA)
Special strength: Sensory-friendly environments, strong family advocacy, and programs from early childhood to adulthood across 6 Indiana locations.
Essential Information for Parents
Best Approach Types: ABA (Applied Behavior Analysis), TEACCH, Verbal Behavior, and RDI models available
Age Range: Programs serve ages 5-22, with some preschool options starting earlier
Student-Teacher Ratios: Best programs offer 5:1 or lower ratios for individualized attention
Location Coverage: Indianapolis has the most options, but programs available statewide
Services Included: Many offer speech therapy, occupational therapy, and behavioral support
Financial Help Available: Public school services, vouchers, IDEA funding, and Medicaid waivers
Where to Find Programs
Indianapolis (Most Options)BloomingtonCarmelFishersNoblesvilleWestfieldLafayetteClarksvilleWest LafayetteNewburgh
Quick School Selection Checklist
Must-Have Features
Small class sizes Autism-trained staff Sensory-friendly environment Visual learning supports
Therapy Services
Speech therapy Occupational therapy Behavioral therapy Family training
Academic Focus
Individualized education plans Communication skills Social skill development Transition planning
Financial Assistance Available
Public School Services: Free appropriate education required by law
Indiana School Vouchers: Help cover private school costs based on need
IDEA Funding: Federal grants for special education services
Medicaid Waivers: Cover therapy and support services
First Steps Program: Early intervention for young children
Tax Benefits: Deductions and credits for special needs expenses
Indiana has a wide range of educational opportunities for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). With proper support and intervention, children with ASD can thrive academically and socially. This guide gives an overview of the top autism schools and programs in Indiana. It aims to help parents find the right fit for their child.
Introduction
Autism spectrum disorder is a developmental disability that affects communication, social interaction, and behavior. The characteristics and severity of ASD vary significantly among individuals. Some children with high-functioning autism can participate in mainstream classrooms with extra support. Others require specialized schooling to address their needs.
When looking for the right school, it’s essential to consider the child’s skills, challenges, and sensitivities. Factors like classroom size, teacher-student ratio, communication methods, and behavioral approaches should align with the child’s requirements. Consulting with doctors, therapists, and special education coordinators is critical to finding an appropriate placement.
Top Autism Schools in Indiana
The Indiana Resource Center for Autism (IRCA)
RCA is a reputable organization that offers comprehensive training and consulting services to schools and families across the state. They specialize in developing evidence-based programs catered towards students with autism in both general and particular education settings. They are committed to providing tailored support and resources. This underscores their dedication to enhancing the overall quality of education for students with autism.
Contact Details Address: 2810 E Discovery Parkway, Bloomington, IN 47408 Phone: 812‑856‑4722 Fax: 812‑855‑9630 Alternate phone listed elsewhere: 812‑855‑6508 Website:https://www.iidc.indiana.edu/irca (as part of Indiana Institute on Disability and Community) Note: IRCA does not provide diagnostic evaluations or run a school—rather, it supports existing programs with training and materials
Options Charter School – Indianapolis
The public charter school mentioned in the previous message adopts the Verbal Behavior approach. This method supports students with autism. It caters to individuals aged 5 to 22 years. This approach focuses on functional language and social skills. It is designed to cater to the communication and learning needs of individuals with autism spectrum disorder. The school maintains a low student-teacher ratio. This ensures individualized instruction. Personalized attention caters to the unique learning requirements of each student. The school aims to create a supportive environment for the student’s holistic development. It also focuses on academic progress within the specified age range.
Contact Details:Indiana Charter School Board (oversees many Indianapolis charter schools):
The Mind Trust (organization supporting Indianapolis charter schools):
Address: 1630 N. Meridian St., Suite 450, Indianapolis, IN 46202
Phone: 317-822-8102
Some individual charter schools in Indianapolis:
Enlace Academy: (K-8)
Vision Academy at Riverside: (K-8)
Website: visionacademy-riverside.org
Christel House Indianapolis:
Website: chindy.org
Paramount Schools of Excellence:
Main office phone: 317-519-4588
Address: 1203 E St Clair St, Indianapolis, IN 46202
SENSE Charter School:
Address: 1601 Barth Ave., Indianapolis, IN 46203
Phone: 317-423-0204
Park Tudor School – Indianapolis
The Visceral Autism Program has been designed to meet the unique needs of every student. It features an impressive 5:1 student-to-staff ratio that ensures personalized attention and support. The holistic program provides customized social skills and behavior training and a comprehensive academic curriculum. This tailor-made combination enables students to grow academically, socially, and emotionally, fostering a supportive and enriching learning environment.
Contact Details:
Address: 7200 N. College Avenue, Indianapolis, IN 46240
The previous response mentioned an educational institution. It supports students in Crawford and the surrounding counties. The institution focuses especially on those with autism. The institution’s specialized classrooms and targeted services are crucial in meeting the unique needs of each student. Additionally, they offer a WORK program designed specifically for individuals aged 18-22, demonstrating the institution’s commitment to holistic support. This program aims to prepare students to transition into adulthood and the workforce.
Contact Details:
Official Name: South Central Area Special Education Cooperative
Quality Achievement & Success Academy (Q.A.S.) – Noblesville
The center-based program is specifically designed to meet the unique needs of students with autism. It supports individuals from kindergarten to 12th grade. The program aims to foster a supportive and enriching learning environment using applied behavior analysis and structured teaching techniques. With a focus on individualized education plans and personalized attention, the program seeks to address each student’s unique strengths and challenges. The program integrates social, emotional, and academic development by emphasizing a holistic approach to promote growth and independence. The program empowers students and cultivates essential skills for lifelong success through collaborative efforts involving educators, therapists, and families.
Contact Details:
Miller Success Academy
Part of the Noblesville Schools district, the Miller Success Academy is housed within the Noblesville Schools Community Center.
Offers ASPIRE, a well-regarded inclusion program with a resource classroom for students with autism and learning differences.
The ASPIRE program has received recognition for its commitment to supporting students with autism. It also aids those with learning differences in the educational setting. The program’s resource classroom offers a nurturing environment where students receive personalized support to improve their learning experience. This inclusive approach benefits the students involved and contributes to creating a more diverse and understanding school community. Through the ASPIRE program, students access the tools they need. These resources help them to excel academically and personally. This makes their educational journey positive and empowering.
Contact Details:
Address: 110 E. 16th Street Indianapolis, IN 46202
The ACE program is designed to cater to the unique cognitive and learning needs of students with autism. It is based on the TEACCH model, which emphasizes providing structure and utilizing visual learning techniques. The ACE program creates an environment that fosters learning by incorporating structured activities. It also uses visual supports to aid development for students with autism. The program aims to empower students with evidence-based practices. It provides personalized support. This equips them with the tools and strategies they need to thrive academically and socially.
The LIFE Program is designed to provide comprehensive support for students with autism. It includes a range of interventions. The therapies are evidence-based and tailored to their individual needs. The program focuses on key areas such as communication, academics, vocational skills, and independence. It aims to empower students to achieve their full potential. Students are encouraged to thrive in both academic and real-world settings.
The LIFE Program equips students with the tools and resources they need through a multi-faceted approach. It helps them enhance their communication abilities. The program helps them develop essential academic skills. It builds a foundation for future vocational pursuits. The program emphasizes the cultivation of independence. This focus fosters self-reliance and self-advocacy. Ultimately, it prepares students for a successful transition into adulthood.
The LIFE Program places a strong emphasis on evidence-based practices. It strives to stay at the forefront of innovative and effective interventions. This ensures that students receive the highest quality of care and support. The program addresses the diverse needs of students with autism. It endeavors to create a nurturing and inclusive environment. In this environment, every individual has the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive.
Contact Information
Address: 301 N. Oriental St., Indianapolis, IN 46202
Offers center-based applied behavior analysis programs for preschool to high school students with autism in Westfield.
This center is dedicated to providing specialized programs. These programs are comprehensive applied behavior analysis. They are tailored to meet the unique needs of children and adolescents with autism. The team at this center uses a holistic approach. They prioritize creating a supportive and enriching environment. This is where students can learn, grow, and thrive. The center’s focus on center-based programs ensures that students have access to a structured and nurturing setting. This fosters their development across various domains. The center is located in the vibrant community of Westfield. It is ideally positioned to serve families and students in the area. This offers a convenient and accessible option for those seeking high-quality support and education for individuals with autism.
The RDI model stands for Reuven Feuerstein’s Dynamic Intelligence. It is a program designed to enhance cognitive and learning skills in individuals. Unlike traditional models, the RDI model considers intelligence to be dynamic and modifiable rather than a fixed attribute. This suggests that individuals can develop and improve their cognitive abilities throughout their lifetime.
In Indianapolis, the education system emphasizes the principles of the RDI model. This provides students with the opportunity to develop their dynamic intelligence. Small class sizes allow for personalized attention and tailored instruction. This fostering creates a supportive learning environment. Students can engage actively with the material. Additionally, the focus on vocational skills ensures that students gain academic knowledge. They also acquire practical abilities that are valuable in real-world settings.
Extracurricular activities further complement the RDI model. They offer opportunities for students to apply their skills in diverse contexts. This fosters creativity, problem-solving, and teamwork. These activities are vital for the holistic development of students. They nurture dynamic intelligence and provide outlets for personal growth. They also encourage expression.
The combination of the RDI model and the educational offerings in Indianapolis creates a well-rounded approach to learning. This approach nurtures dynamic intelligence. It equips students with the tools they need to succeed both academically and in their future endeavors.
Contact Details:
Address: 4122 Madison Avenue Indianapolis, IN 46227
What makes them stand out: Their “360 Care” model brings diagnostic assessments, ABA, speech, OT, feeding therapy, and family guidance all under one roof—so you’re not juggling multiple services in different places. Total care, total convenience.
**Primary Location (East Indy):** Address: 6635 E. 21st St, Ste 100, Indianapolis, IN 46219 Phone: (317) 608‑2824
What makes them special: A sensory‑friendly and structured environment that supports tailored ABA programs for all ages—from early childhood to adulthood. They also rock advocacy and support navigating insurance.
Locations & Contacts:
Bloomington: 3101 Canterbury Ct, Bloomington, IN 47404 • 812‑650‑3032 LittleStar ABA Therapy
West Lafayette: 2555 Yeager Rd, West Lafayette, IN 47906 • 765‑269‑7756 LittleStar ABA Therapy
Newburgh: 3777 Haley Dr, Newburgh, IN 47630 • 812‑490‑0904
Applied Behavior Center for Autism
Why families love them: They deliver front‑row, center‑based ABA, speech, OT, diagnostic testing, and social‑skills programs with clinical oversight. Same‑day verbal diagnosis offered in many cases—so fast and focused. theimagineacademy.com+4imagineacademyforautism.org+4LinkedIn+4
Why it’s highlighted: It is a nurturing, positive-reinforcement, individualized learning space. It’s been praised in case studies for fostering independence and confidence. There has been big progress in social skills and overall growth. goldenstepsaba.com
Contact Info: Unfortunately, I couldn’t locate precise address or phone number for Imagine Academy in Lafayette, IN. Their website exists but lacks contact details publicly. May want to reach out via the site or local directories. imagineacademyforautism.orggoldenstepsaba.com
Autism Schools in Indiana Comparison table.
Organization
Description Highlights
Contact & Location
Hopebridge Autism Therapy
Comprehensive “360 Care” in one spot—diagnosis + ABA + therapies + family support
East Indy: 6635 E 21st St, (317) 608-2824 West Indy: 6925 Parkdale Pl, (317) 597-4553
Little Star Center
Sensory-friendly ABA across ages, strong advocacy for families
Bloomington, Carmel, Fishers, Clarksville, West Lafayette, Newburgh with phones above
Applied Behavior Center for Autism
Center-based ABA + speech + OT + fast diagnosis
Corporate HQ: 7901 E 88th St, (317) 849-5437 (plus many branches)
Imagine Academy – Lafayette
Individualized, positive reinforcement environment; great social & independence outcomes
Contact info not publicly available—website needs to be contacted
School/Program
Location
Grades/Ages Served
Key Features
Indiana Resource Center for Autism
Statewide
All ages
Training and consulting for schools and families
Options Charter School
Indianapolis
Ages 5-22
VERBAL Behavior approach, low student-teacher ratio
Park Tudor School
Indianapolis
K-12
Visceral autism program, 5:1 staffing, social skills training
Crawford County Special Education Cooperative
Crawford County area
K-12, ages 18-22
Specialized classrooms, WORK transition program
Quality Achievement & Success Academy
Noblesville
K-12
Center-based, ABA and structured teaching
John Herron High School
Indianapolis
9-12
ASPIRE inclusion program with resource room
Holy Cross Central School
Indianapolis
K-8
ACE program based on TEACCH model
Zionsville Community Schools
Zionsville
K-12
LIFE Program focuses on communication, vocational skills
Awareness Academy
Westfield
Preschool-12
Center-based ABA program
Autism Model School
Indianapolis
K-12
RDI model, small class size, vocational skills
These are just a few of the many school options in Indiana. The Indiana Department of Education’s website has an extensive directory of special needs schools and services searchable by location.
What to Look for in an Autism School
When researching schools, visit and ask about their approach. Key things to look for include:
Small student-teacher ratios allow for individual attention.
Teachers and staff trained in autism and sensitive to sensory issues.
Emphasis on communication, socialization, and life skills.
Optional speech, occupational, or behavioral therapies.
Visual schedules and structured physical environments.
Sensory rooms or quiet areas to decompress.
Positive behavior modification techniques.
Options for mainstreaming in regular classes if appropriate.
Individualized education and transition plans.
Parent training and family involvement.
Technology tools and learning aids like picture exchange communication.
Finding the most suitable program requires understanding your child’s needs and priorities. Indiana offers a wide range of options. Parents can find an environment where their child can gain academic skills. They can also develop social and real-world skills.
Financial Assistance
The cost of specialized schooling can be a significant concern for families. Here are some options for financial help:
Public school systems must provide free appropriate education, including autism services.
Indiana grants vouchers for students to attend private schools based on financial need.
IDEA funding and grants help schools cover the higher costs of special needs services.
State agencies like First Steps offer early intervention programs for young children at reduced cost.
Medicaid waivers can provide therapy and support services apart from school.
Scholarships and funding are available from local autism societies and advocacy groups.
Tax benefits, including deductions, credits, and exemptions for special needs costs.
Contact the Indiana Family and Social Services Administration. They can help you explore eligibility for Medicaid. You can also check eligibility for Social Security. Explore other aid based on the child’s disability. Appealing insurance denials and petitioning for appropriate public school placement are other tactics parents use to secure services.
With some research and creativity, Indiana families should be able to access tuition assistance. They could also find scholarships or financial aid. This support can cover specialized autism education.
Making the Transition
The step into a new classroom setting can be challenging. Here are tips for making a smooth transition to an autism school:
Schedule several visits and a trial run beforehand for your child to acclimate.
Create a customized social story describing the new school.
Pack familiar and comforting items like headphones or fidgets.
Set up ongoing contacts between previous and new staff to align instruction.
Ask about options to phase in attendance from part-time to full days slowly.
Collaborate with the IEP team and autism specialists at the new school.
Find other parents who can share their transition experiences.
Prepare using visual supports like picture schedules and classroom maps.
Explain the upcoming change simply and positively. Provide reassurance.
With preparation and consistency between all support providers, students with autism can successfully shift learning environments.
Finding the most appropriate educational placement is crucial for setting up children with autism for success. Indiana offers top-notch autism schools and programs for students at all levels. This guide outlines what to look for when researching options and how to access financial help. With the proper support, Indiana’s exceptional students with ASD can thrive.
]]>https://101autism.com/top-autism-schools-in-indiana-a-guide-for-parents/feed/3688306Autism potty traininghttps://101autism.com/autism-potty-training/ https://101autism.com/autism-potty-training/#commentsFri, 02 Aug 2024 13:10:09 +0000https://101autism.com/?p=5195735 Tips to Successfully Toilet Train Your Autistic Child
Toilet training your autistic child can be difficult. It’s easy to feel frustrated when they don’t do it as normal kids do. But with the right plan, you can quickly get your child out of diapers! Try these five tips to successfully toilet-train your autistic child and see how fast they learn!
1) Find your child’s motivation
Toilet training can be difficult for any child, but it can be especially challenging for children with autism. The key to success is finding your child’s motivation. Here are five tips to help you get started
1) Find out what your child enjoys doing and use that as the reward for successful toileting.
2) Make sure a space in the bathroom will allow your child to do his or her toileting without being disturbed.
3) Set up a reward system or chart that they can see so they know how close they are to their goal of successfully toilet training.
2) Start before they are ready
Potty training is something that every parent looks forward to, but for parents of autistic children, it can be a daunting task. Here are a few tips to help you get started with the process early on and have your child potty trained by the time they’re ready:
– Make sure that your child knows what toileting is and does before teaching them how to do it
– Talk about toileting with your child
– Show them how toileting is done by doing it yourself in front of them – Set up a reward system with their favorite toy or activity when they use the toilet successfully
3) Set clear expectations with your child
1. Talk to your child about what you expect from them during toilet training. Explain that they need to use the toilet when they feel the urge to go and that it’s okay to make mistakes.
2. Make a schedule and stick to it. This will help your child know when to use the toilet and give them a sense of routine.
3. Reward your child for using the toilet successfully. This could be through praise, stickers, or small treats. The rewards can gradually get more significant as their progress increases. You can also provide positive reinforcement by rewarding them with extra playtime on the playground or allowing them to pick out a new toy at the store.
4. Create a chart to track progress. Children with autism may not understand how close they reach their goal until there is visual evidence, so create a chart with precise increments of success (such as five stars).
4) Structure their day
If you want your child to be successful in toilet training, it’s important to structure their day, so they have regular opportunities to use the restroom. Try setting a timer for every hour or two and bringing them to the bathroom. You can also try putting a sticker chart in the bathroom to reward them for using the toilet. It is essential to stay positive and consistent during this process because kids with autism may not understand if they are angry or frustrated.
A great way to help your child understand that peeing and pooping are happening down there is by showing them pictures of where those bodily functions happen on their body. Then, once they know the process, introduce new words such as pee-pee, poop-poo, wee-wee, etc.
5) Have patience and celebrate every success
The toilet training process can be long and frustrating, but it’s essential to have patience and celebrate every success. Here are five tips to help you successfully toilet train your autistic child
Some products that can help you with potty training
Autism potty training in 3 days
Autism potty training pants
autism potty training tips pooping
toilet training adults with autism
toilet training autism bowel movements
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intensive potty training autism how to potty train a nonverbal autistic child
how to get an autistic child to poop in the toilet
At what age should an autistic child be potty trained? How do you discipline a 3-year-old with autism?
Is delayed potty training a sign of autism? How do I get my autistic child to poop in the potty?
]]>https://101autism.com/autism-potty-training/feed/3519573Suggestions for the best gift for 2 almost 3 years old with autismhttps://101autism.com/suggestions-for-the-best-gift-for-2-almost-3-years-old-with-autism/ https://101autism.com/suggestions-for-the-best-gift-for-2-almost-3-years-old-with-autism/#commentsFri, 02 Aug 2024 13:08:04 +0000https://101autism.com/?p=514324Some Hand-Picked Recommendations I picked on Facebook for gifts for two almost 3-year-olds with autism.
If you go on Amazon and type in sensory gifts, it comes up with loads of things, as I have an autistic kid who x
We got some fruit and vegetable sets from Melissa and Doug. We also got some puzzles with animals for sensory. Additionally, we purchased a mic from Dollar Tree. He began to vocalize along with Thomas the Tank Engine and STEM Tank Engine.
It depends on his or her preferences and abilities. If your child receives services, such as behavior therapy, occupational therapy, physical therapy, or speech therapy, these providers usually have good ideas. They can help you find options that combine fun, preferences, abilities, and ways to increase skills.
Blocks. Wood blocks. Lowercase letters to help build phonics recognition. NOTHING with noise. He may hate it or he may stim with it, either way, no bueno. I would focus on early literacy skills with the child. All children need those. Phonics, phonemic awareness, syllables, and sound blending. If you need sensory toys, PLAYDOUGH works perfectly well for all kids on and off the spectrum.
Don’t overthink it. All kids need sensory toys, as they help with learning. All kids need early reading skills.
At that age, my son’s favorite toys were his alphabet and number bots. They were toys that were transfigured into robots. They were great at getting him to learn his alphabet and numbers. We even used them to help him learn & spell sight words. He’s ten now, and they are still in his room, lol
My son, at the time, was 2. He LOVED to spell and do his shapes A and 1-100. He also enjoyed anything rainbow. He liked the bag full of plastic balls of different colors. He also enjoyed the stacking toys from big to small. Those were his favorite things to do all day, and he is now extremely smart from playing with learning toys
I’m making my daughter a Toy Story weighted blanket.
]]>https://101autism.com/suggestions-for-the-best-gift-for-2-almost-3-years-old-with-autism/feed/1514324Autism Speaks Launches Transition Tool Kit to Help People with Autism Navigate the Journey from Adolescence to Adulthoodhttps://101autism.com/autism-speaks-launches-transition-tool-kit-providing-practical-information-and-resources-to-guide-the-transition-to-adulthood/ https://101autism.com/autism-speaks-launches-transition-tool-kit-providing-practical-information-and-resources-to-guide-the-transition-to-adulthood/#respondWed, 22 Nov 2023 15:44:37 +0000https://101autism.com/?p=1131Autism Speaks, the world’s largest autism advocacy organization, has launched a new transition toolkit to help people with autism navigate the journey from adolescence to adulthood. The toolkit, available online, provides information and resources on various topics, including self-advocacy, independent living, employment, and housing.
“The transition to adulthood can be a challenging time for anyone, but it can be especially difficult for people with autism,” said Mark Roithmayr, president and CEO of Autism Speaks. “Our new transition toolkit is designed to provide families and individuals with the information and resources they need to make the transition to adulthood as smooth as possible.”
The toolkit is divided into four sections:
Self-Advocacy: This section provides information on how to develop self-advocacy skills, such as how to communicate your needs and wants, how to set goals, and how to advocate for yourself in different settings.
Independent Living: This section provides information on how to develop independent living skills, such as how to cook, clean, do laundry, and manage money.
Employment: This section provides information on how to find and keep a job, how to develop job skills, and how to succeed in the workplace.
Housing: This section provides information on different housing options for people with autism, such as independent living, group homes, and supported living arrangements.
The toolkit also includes a section on resources, which provides a list of organizations and websites that can provide additional information and support.
The transition toolkit is a valuable resource for families and individuals with autism. It provides information and resources to help make the transition to adulthood a smoother and more successful experience.
In addition to the transition toolkit, Autism Speaks offers a variety of other resources and support services for people with autism and their families. These resources include:
The Autism Speaks Autism Treatment Network: This network of over 100 clinics provides comprehensive, evidence-based treatment for autism.
The Autism Speaks Autism Response Team: This team of trained professionals provides free, confidential support to families affected by autism.
The Autism Speaks Autism Resource Center: This website provides a wealth of information and resources on autism, including articles, videos, and fact sheets.
Autism Speaks is committed to helping people with autism live full and productive lives. The transition toolkit is just one of the many ways that Autism Speaks works to make a difference in the lives of people with autism and their families.
Here are some additional tips for helping people with autism transition to adulthood:
Start planning early. Transitioning to adulthood can take several years, so it’s essential to start planning early. Talk to your child’s doctor, therapist, and other professionals.
Get involved in your child’s education. Make sure your child is getting the support they need in school. This may include special education services, such as speech therapy, occupational therapy, or behavior therapy.
Help your child develop social skills. Social skills are essential for success in adulthood. Encourage your child to participate in activities that will help them develop social skills, such as sports, clubs, or volunteer work.
Help your child develop independent living skills. As your child ages, help them learn how to do things for themselves, such as cooking, cleaning, and managing money.
Talk to your child about their future. Talk to your child about their dreams and goals for the future. Help them develop a plan to achieve their goals.
The transition to adulthood can be a challenging time, but it can also be a time of great opportunity. With planning and support, people with autism can live full and productive lives.
TL;DR: Top Autism Schools in Indiana
Best Autism Schools & Programs
Hopebridge Autism Therapy Center
Applied Behavior Center for Autism
Little Star Center (LittleStar ABA)
Essential Information for Parents
Where to Find Programs
Quick School Selection Checklist
Small class sizes
Speech therapy
Occupational therapy
Behavioral therapy
Family training
Individualized education plans
Communication skills
Social skill development
Transition planning
Financial Assistance Available
