As I have noted in previous posts, I have begun to notice a rift (or two) in the field of autism research and advocacy. There are those who would consider themselves to be engaged in a war on autism's wrath and it's evil doings (Ex-Playboy Gal McCarthy) and those who advocate for the neurodiversity movement, a movement which sees those with ASDs as different/eccentric and merely requiring acceptance from the… Continue

Today's walk was amazing. Thousands of people supporting their loved ones, raising awareness, and making their voices heard. Hearing familes and friends cheering for their loved ones who have autism was incredibly touching and powerful. Our team, Team Love and Hope, raised nearly $1000 for this special cause and I'd like to double that next year. I learned some new things today as well. I learned that Cure Autism Now (CAN) has now merged with Autism Speaks and that there is now an… Continue

"Study with the Best" is CUNY-TV's (channel 75) Emmy-nominated show that features different faculty at CUNY. On Sunday, June 15th at 8am and 8pm, CUNY-TV will feature an interview with Professor Shirley Cohen of Hunter College about how the college is raising awareness about autism education. There will be some footage of one of the NEST programs (P.S. 112) and its teachers. The episode will also show some footage of Elijah… Continue

http://www.autismspeaks.org/press/days_of_our_lives_autism_story.php So the soap opera Days of Our Lives has created a story line about a couple with a son diagnosed as autistic. While I have my concerns about how they approach it, as well as not being a fan of the genre, I also think that it is a good thing that people who might otherwise only have Rainman as a source for info about ASDs now might see other things as well. Just thought it was interesting and another way that som… Continue

The New York Center for Autism Charter School (NYCA) is a public school located on 433 East 100th street in Manahattan (it is part of P.S. 50). Due to the significant rise in the number of students diagnosed with autism spectrum disorders, the demand for appropriate educational placements have continued to overwhelm the NYC Department of Education (DOE). Although the NYC DOE has begun to respond to the needs… Continue