Ten Myths about High Functioning Autism and Sensory Integration Disorder

This article (part 1 in a series of three) addresses common myths about Sensory Integration Disorder (SID) or Sensory Dysfunction (SD). The experiences, insights and opinions of over 150 individuals with high functioning autism (HFA) were gathered by the author as the basis for this article.

Treat Sensory Issues Before Addressing Socialization and Communication? YES!

Of all the characteristics associated with autism, people on the spectrum consistently state that understanding and addressing how their bodies interpret sensations is one of the most beneficial things that neurotypicals (people without autism) can do to be supportive and develop insight into the world of high functioning autism (HFA).

Although people on the autism spectrum have been saying it for several years, treating sensory issues first is a relatively new concept for autism professionals who are typically accustomed to addressing socialization and communication difficulties before and sometimes to the exclusion of sensory problems.

Read more of the Hubpages article HERE.

In First, Sesame Street Goes Sensory Friendly

First it was the movies, then Broadway. Now, Sesame Street Live will do a performance designed to meet the special needs of those with autism and other disabilities.

The show Friday night at the Fox Theatre in Detroit will not be altered, but will feature several accommodations for the audience. Organizers say they are providing parents with production notes in advance so that kids can be prepared. What’s more, there will be quiet areas at the venue for anyone needing a break during the performance and extra space will be offered in the seating areas so that audience members can move around.

The performance of Sesame Street Live “Elmo Makes Music” will be the first to offer an autism-friendly experience, but those behind the show hope to do more, according to Tom Riopelle, Midwest regional director at Autism Speaks, who helped organize the event. Read more of Michelle Diament's Disability Scoop article HERE.

One Place For Special Needs - Resources for Driving with Disabilities, Sensory Activities and Holiday Tips for Children with Disabilities

Visit their website for:

Driving with Disabilities HERE
Sensory Activities HERE
and Holidays with Children with Disabilities HERE.

Adapted Screening Movie "How to Train Your Dragon"

Dear Families,



I have arranged another adapted screening for our kids. This time it is "How to Train Your Dragon". This is NOT the 3D version. The 2D version will not be available for viewing after the 21st.


Those of you who are not familiar about the adapted screenings here is what the theater does for our kids.

They will show the film with the following adjustments:
*Lowered volume
*No Trailers
*Theater set to dimmed lights. (not completely dark)

Date: Wednesday, April 21st

Time: 1:40 - 3:58Where: Regal Hacienda Crossings
5000 Dublin Blvd.
Dublin, CA94568

*The cost is $7.50 per child. Purchase your tickets at the inside counter or outside at the window. One parent/adult per child (special needs or typical) will be allowed FREE admission as the child's "attendant". Typical friends and siblings are welcome of course. You may also send your child with a therapist. This is a great "community outing" experience. Feel free to pass this on or post it on ASD sites.

There is NO NEED to RSVP to these films. Just mention that you are seeing the adapted screening when purchasing your ticket/s.


~Michelle Singh
Group Moderator
Special Parents 4 Special Kids

Upcoming Communication Works Workshops

WHAT: Friendship: Social Language and Social Learning, presented by Eliabeth Sautter, Ma, CCC-SLP. Presentation on how and why social learning groups work. Common communication problems for kids with AD/HD.

WHEN: Thursday February 25

TIME: 7pm -9pm


WHERE: CHADD Support Group

COST: Free to CHADD members, $5 donation from non members.

RSVP: Carol Katz, 510-551-6914
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WHAT: Emotional Regulation, presented by Leah Kuypers, MA, Ed OTR/L. A program to foster self-regulation for students who struggle with managing their emotions and sensory needs.

WHEN: Friday February 26

TIME: 12:30pm -2pm

WHERE: Ann Martin Center in Piedmont


COST: Free

RSVP: (510) 655-3999, ext. 333

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WHAT: The Zones of Regulation, presented by Leah Kuypers, M.A., OTR/L . The Zones for Regulation is a cognitive-behavior based strategy that helps students become more aware of and independent in controlling their emotions and impulses, managing their sensory needs, and improving their ability to problem solve conflicts. Practical ideas are provided that can easily be incorporated at home, school and in the community.

WHERE: Communication Works, Oakland


WHEN: Tuesday, March 16th


TIME: 6:30pm-8:30pm


COST: Parents: $20, Professionals: $30


RSVP: rsvp@cwtherapy.com
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WHAT: Social Learning and Related Social Skills Part II, presented by Hillary Kissack, M.A., CCC-SLP and Elizabeth Sautter, M.A., CCC-SLP. This workshop provides hands on tools and strategies to increase awareness and comfort in the area of social learning. Strategies for home and school will be discussed to support: Increased perspective taking Understanding the hidden rules and social expectations, Self monitoring and cognitive flexibility, Independence and self confidence Structure and routine.

WHERE: Communication Works, Oakland


WHEN: Tuesday, April 20th

TIME: 6:30pm-8:30pm

COST: Parents: $20, Professionals: $30

RSVP: rsvp@cwtherapy.com
_________________________________


WHAT: Social Learning for Pre-Teen, Adolescents, and Adults, presented by Kristen Wilson, M.S., CCC-SLP and Elizabeth Sautter, M.A., CCC-SLP


WHERE: ASD Support group at the Walnut Creek Barnes and Noble

WHEN: Monday, May 10

TIME: 7pm

COST: Free
________________________________

WHAT: When my Worries get Too Big, presented by Kari Dunn Buron, author of "The Incredible 5-Point Scale" and "When My Worries Get Too Big". This presentation will address specific issues related to the impact of social anxiety on students with social learning challenges. It will cover how anxiety and the lack of social skills can lead to challenging behaviors and difficulty building relationships. Teaching strategies and tools will be introduced and discussed.

WHERE: Communication Works, Oakland


WHEN: Thursday May 13


TIME: 6:30-8:30pm

COST: Parents: $20, Professionals: $30

RSVP: rsvp@cwtherapy.com

Free Workshop on Emotional Regulation

Communication Works is hosting a free workshop on emotional regulation on Thursday, July 9th at 7pm in Oakland. The workshop will teach:
-How to identify the level of arousal and sensory needs
-Which calming strategies work
-The impact of calming strategies and when to use them
-Problem solving solutions
You can find more information here.