Since autism has no physical manifestation it’s hard to know that this child in the middle of a meltdown is autistic. By Tulika Prasad A few days back while I was browsing the aisles of a store my nine-year-old son brushed against another customer. I was hoping it wouldn’t be a big deal but sh…

In 2017, the Social Stories Spectrum Project provided a structured opportunity for high-functioning verbal young adults (ages 18-25) with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD) to meet up with their peers and practice social skills, participate in organized trips to seven museums in Balboa Park, and work…

By Alex Frank My sister Mia, who is now 24 years old, was at a crossroads before being employed at Popcorn for the People. Most people who are autistic or have special needs struggle intensely to find some form of employment. In fact, the unemployment rate for adults with disabilities in America is …

Wendy describes the challenges for someone on the autism spectrum for what many would call a simple outing. By Wendi E. Powers Going out in public is always an adventure for those of us on the autism spectrum.  While I can’t speak for the others, I can share a personal example.  Just…

How painting unlocked one woman’s ability as a savant. Congratulations to Amanda LaMunyon who on the Megyn Kelly show this morning! Here’s the video for those who missed it! Here’s a link to the Today show article Source: The Art of Autism

Ryan Smoluk talks about the importance of not listening to other’s negative projections for the future. By Ryan Smoluk “Oh no, no Ryan don’t think about going to university! You will never be able to do that!” a teacher in elementary told me. I was crushed. Was that true? I only ever tho…

As an autistic person myself, I do not take being verbal for granted and I understand how powerful writing can be to express oneself. I understand Pam’s saturation in books, her safe places to escape to and think, because I had mine too and still do. I identify with the types of “beyond the norm” gi…

By Stephie King Are you one of those readers who devours material about autism with a dry well of content to drink from? Check out some of the books loved by autistic creator, Lizzie, as well as her own contribution to the book pile. A new book project is looming on the horizon of completion you may…

Austin shares what it is like to have a panic attack and wants others to share their experiences. By Austin John Jones What I am about to talk about I think is a very personal experience for me. However, I want to tell you about it because I know I can’t be the only person on earth who has felt this…

By Jasmine Dyoco Going back to school can be exciting and fun for some kids, but for others, it can cause anxiety and stress. It’s normal to be nervous about the unknown. New teachers, classmates, schedules, classrooms, and subjects can cause the jitters in just about anyone. But for children and te…

Helen Wallace-Iles explains different types of empathy and dispels myths about autism and empathy. By Helen Wallace-Iles So many of the general public believe that autistic people don’t feel empathy towards others, so this post is designed to help set the record straight. First of all, what is empat…

Joshua Perry has been inspired by his brother Jahred who is on the autism spectrum. After six concussions Joshua Perry, the Seahawks linebacker, at age 24 has decided to leave football. On the Today show this morning he talked about his career in football and his brother with Aspergers. Jahred Perr…

Mozart and the Whale is a film adapted from Jerry Newport and Mary Newport’s autobiographical book Mozart and the Whale: An Asperger’s Love Tale. By Nils Skudra I first watched the 2005 film Mozart and the Whale several years ago and have since viewed it numerous times. I just saw it aga…

why I’m no longer employed By an anonymous female on the autism spectrum Sorry, I had to title my first AOA blog with my favorite saying from the King’s Quest video game series. In game VII a very ugly (to some) troll asks the beautiful Princess Rosella for a kiss. Upon rejection his rep…