Resources for Autism

What is autsim? 

Autism is not just one thing, it is actually a range of conditions with a range of symptoms and characteristics. That's why you'll often hear them referred to as "autism spectrum disorders," (ASD). This means autism can look very different from person to person. The Centers for Disease Control describes ASDs as: “a developmental disability that can cause significant social, communication and behavioral challenges. There is often nothing about how people with ASD look that sets them apart from other people, but people with ASD may communicate, interact, behave, and learn in ways that are different from most other people. The learning, thinking, and problem-solving abilities of people with ASD can range from gifted to severely challenged. Some people with ASD need a lot of help in their daily lives; others need less.” For more information about autism as it relates to language and communication (symptoms, diagnosis, treatment) visit ASHA.org. 

TIPS FOR COMMUNICATING WITH SOMEONE WHO HAS AUTISM

Links for families of students with autism:

The Autism Society of Alabama provides a directory of resources, services, programs, events, and information for families of people with autism. They offer a comprehensive website with a resource directory as well as a toll free number to call for information. 

The Alabama Regional Autism Network (AL-RAN) serves those who have questions, concerns, or resource needs regarding themselves, a family member, friend, client, patient, or student with diagnosed or suspected Autism Spectrum Disorder by providing information and connecting your with various local and national resources. You can call and talk to a real person, or view their online resource list. 

Many autism organizations focus heavily on children with autism, but the Autism Society  also makes a point of emphasizing the needs and goals of adults with autism. They encourage self-advocacy, which means people with autism speaking for themselves, not just their loved ones or professionals saying what they need or want or do; they have an advisory panel made up of people who actually have autism. Check out their "Living with Autism" sections for information on ASD through the lifespan, community inclusion, and future planning. 

The Annual Autism Conference is hosted by the University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa each year. It is an opportunity for professionals and parents to hear from a variety of experts and speakers on autism research, treatment, programs, and more. 

SAFETY IDs

Safety IDs are used to provide critical identification and medical information for people who might not be able to speak. Medical alert jewelry is not just for people with diabetes or allergies. Nonspeaking individuals are clear candidates, but speaking individuals may also have times when they are unable to communicate effectively, such as when they are overstimulated, having a meltdown, or are very anxious. If an event occurred where a child was separated from their caregiver or their caregiver was unable to speak for them, these IDs provide a way for someone to figure out how to help the child. There are lots of different options that your children can wear to provide information about their names, your contact information, and what their specific needs are. They come in a variety of styles such as dog tags, silicone bracelets, Velcro strap brackets or ankle bands, silver chain bracelets, and stickers for your home and vehicle so emergency personnel will know there is a child with special needs inside (and that they may not respond to verbal commands.) 

Search online for a variety of options for your child, vehicle, wallet, and home using keywords like "medical ID jewelry," "autism ID tag," and "special needs wearable identification."

Have a question about Autism? 

Get in touch! We're happy to help you find the answers you're looking for. 

Contact your child's school SLP via email. 

Please note, the information on this site is by no means exhaustive or fully comprehensive! These are just a few tips and resources to help you along the way. For more information, please speak to your child's speech-language pathologist or other related professional. 

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