Autism Weekly

Every child with Autism has unique needs. Some children with ASD are able to join a typical classroom, other children require a more tailored approach to their education. Today we discuss education options, the IEP process, and how to make sure your child gets the education they need and deserve. Today we are joined by Juliette. P White. Juliette practices law professionally and is on the board of trustees of the Disability Law Center here in Utah. Juliette’s experience as a parent of a child with autism has motivated her to help people with disabilities live full and satisfying lives as integrated members of our community.If you have questions about the IEP process, we have provided some resources below: Guide to Individualized Education Program (IEP) - Autism SpeaksIEP 101 - Utah Parent CenterIf you'd like to learn more about the disability law center, you can do so by clicking the link below: Disability Law Center - Utah

This week we welcome Laura Anderson. She’s the mother of a young adult with Autism and is a member of the Autism Council of Utah. She is proud to be the co-founder of the parent support group called the “Big MAKs” group. MAK stands for “Mothers of Autistic Kids.” Today we are going to talk about elopement and Autism Spectrum Disorders. Elopement in this case means to “run away, bolt, or wander.” Elopement is a huge safety concern and is more common than you may think in children and teens with Autism Spectrum Disorder. That’s why we are thrilled to learn more from Laura’s experience with Elopement.If you'd like to join the Big MAKs Facebook group, you can do so by emailing Laura directly at [email protected]

This week we welcome Scott Revlin, a Board Certified Behavior Analyst in, California, and a board member for the Autism Society of Ventura County. Over the past 20 years, he has been heavily involved in Autism advocacy and parent training. In this episode, we talk about Feda Alamati's lasting legacy as an advocate for children on the Autism Spectrum. Her voice empowered parents and families to seek opportunities for their children to live thier best lives. She focused on advocacy, parent training, and education. She sadly passed away last month in a house fire. Learn more about Feda's legacy and her tragic passing here. We hope you enjoy listening to Scott's experience and take inspiration from Feda's story. If you have feedback, please fill out the form by clicking here.

Children with Autism are more likely to have mealtime and nutrition challenges. What does this look like in the real world? There was a story in the news recently where a person with Autism ran out of her preferred food (sphagetti-o’s) due to covid. At the time, this was the only food that this person would eat. That being said, running out was a huge issue. The feel-good part of the story is that people sent her the preferred food from all over the country. We are excited to talk about the story today and break down dietary challenges in the world of Autism. This week we welcome Dr. Aaron Fischer. Dr. Fischer is a Licensed Psychologist and Licensed Board Certified Behavior Analyst  Moreover, he is a professor and the director of the interdisciplinary pediatric feeding disorders clinic at the University of Utah Neurobehavior HOME program. He will offer an informative perspective on the issue. Spagetti-os and AutismNews Article Referenced: https://www.washingtonpost.com/lifestyle/2020/09/22/autistic-girl-spaghettios-every-meal-food-shortage/Dr. Aaron Fischer's Feeding Clinic: https://www.u-tteclab.com/project-descriptions.htmlParent Resources Referenced During Podcast: https://www.feedingmatters.org/

This week we are excited to learn from Dr. Katie Jolma, a pediatrician as well as a mother of a young gentleman with Autism.  She explains that the benefits of a good night's sleep are immense. Sleep can impact a person's mood and their ability to accomplish their day to day tasks. Individuals diagnosed with an Autism Spectrum Disorder are more likely to experience difficulties with sleep. Finding solutions to a better night's sleep for your child may aid them in accomplishing their learning and behavior goals. When developing a plan, or bedtime routine, consistency is key.  Thank you for listening to Autism Weekly. Please email us any suggestions at [email protected].  We are excited to collaborate with the communities we serve.

This week we welcome Joey Hannah from the Utah Parent Center as well as Dianna Davis-Wilson who is the Chief Executive Advisor and Behavior Analyst at Aspen Behavioral to discuss how to spread Autism awareness and foster relationships between Law Enforcement and individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders. Today’s conversation regarding autism and first responders could not have been more timely. Education, awareness, and communication are critically important in emergency situations involving children with Autism. We need to promote autism awareness so that we can all be the best neighbors, public servants, parents, and advocates that we can be. It’s important that we all educate ourselves so that we can be better and do better. The lack of preparation and education can lead to challenges and results that are traumatic and unacceptable.

Welcome to Autism Weekly. The podcast that discusses Autism news, current events, and inclusion. Each week we welcome a guest to the program to share their unique perspective and expertise as it relates to the fascinating world of Autism.This week we welcome Leslie to the podcast. She is the owner of 4 Cookie Cutter Hair Salon Franchises in across Utah.  She is an experienced hairstylist that has developed strong skills in serving children with special needs. You’ll find Cookie Cutter locations across the country. To learn more about their services, visit https://www.haircutsarefun.com.

This week we welcome Eric Stoker to the podcast, a young gentleman with Autism who offers a valuable perspective on inclusion through helping to manage a high school basketball team. We also welcome one of his colleagues, Coach Mason Sayer, who is currently the coach of the West Jordan Basketball team.Their stories help us gain perspective on how to create a more inclusive space for all community members. Every person has different strengths that are both helpful and important. Eric's advice to follow your dreams and ask for help if you need it is an inspiration to all of us.

“Back to school” is in full swing and it will look different this year due Covid-19. Do you have a “back to school” plan? Read the full article here This webinar & podcast have been produced by Alternative Behavior Strategies, Inc (ABS).