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Autism News and Views will provide regular updates on news about Autism. In addition, we have provided important links to a wide variety of web sites that will provide you with information on Education, Health, Safety, Advocacy, Service Providers and much more. Use Autism News and Views as your source for the best information on the Autism Spectrum.

Sunday, January 1, 2012

Top 10 Autism Research Achievements of 2011; First Responders Receive Training To Help Those With Autism; Autism Frostbite 5K; Choosing The Right Jobs For Individuals With Autism

"In my opinion, focusing on an individual's disability minimizes that person's humanity. I've always had more success in focusing on abilities and the world of possibilities. After all, isn't that what living is all about?"---Jerry Komar, Editor Autism News and Views

Before I begin, I want to take this opportunity to wish all a safe, happy and healthy New Year.


2011 Autism Research Achievements

Autism Speaks reported on the top 10 autism research achievements for 2011. These include major genetic discoveries to the importance of earlier autism screening. Take a few minutes and visit Autism Speaks to read this piece {Top 10 Autism Research Achievements of 2011 in their "Science" section}.

First Responders Helping Those With Autism

People with autism have longed posed a challenge for law enforcement and first responders nationwide. The good news is that police, firefighters and first responders around the country have been receiving more training in responding to individuals with autism.  Many states now require autism-recognition instruction for their police officers. In addition, this training has been extended to firefighters and first responders.

The North Alabama Reserve Corps was awarded a $7000 grant to train more than 200 first responders to work better with those individuals with autism.  Recently, Michigan State Troopers have also been trained. (Niles Daily Star)

If your local municipality does not provide this training to its law enforcement and first responder personnel, make a point to advocate they do so. Grants are available from organizations like AmeriCares. Also, contact your local social service and behavioral health care providers to see if they would be willing to set up a training program.


Autism Frostbite 5K


How about an event that's really cool---literally? A 5K race in Allison Park, PA, will benefit ABOARD (The Advisory Board and Related Disorders). The Autism Frostbite 5K will be held on Saturday, January 12, 2012. The race starts are 10 am at North Park Boathouse in Allison Park. For additional information call: 412-980-0085




Choosing the Right Jobs for Individuals with Autism



The following are examples of jobs for people with autism and Aspergers recommended by Dr. Temple Grandin, Ph.D.:

Good Jobs for Visual Thinkers:
  • Computer Programming
  • Drafting
  • Commercial Art
  • Photography
  • Handcrafting such as wood carving, jewelry making and ceramics
  • Video Game Designer
  • Building Maintenance

For Non-Visual Thinkers and Individuals Good in Math, Music and Facts:
  • Accounting
  • Library Science
  • Computer Programming
  • Taxi Driver
  • Inventory Control
  • Bank Teller

Individuals Who Are Non-Verbal or Have Poor Verbal Skills:
  • Factory Assembly Work
  • Janitors
  • Warehouse Worker
  • Lawn and Garden Work
  • Fast Food Restaurant
(Autism Research Institute)


4 Your Bookshelf

Girls Growing Up On The Autism Spectrum: What Parents and Professionals Should Know About Pre-Teen Girls and Teenage Years by Shana Nichols, Gina Marie Moravcik and Samara Tentenbaum.

 

Autism News and Views Resources

Just a reminder to all readers to take a moment to review the many resources available on this blog for educators, parents, researchers, clinicians and those interested in autism. Just take a look to your right---->

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