October is National Disability Employment Awareness month. I struggled for years with employment; I am now gainfully employed going on 13.6 years in the mental health field and 18 years part-time as a professor of theology and speak at over 70 events a year. As I refined my talents and special inter…

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…

Many people on the autism spectrum need a family member or a job coach to help facilitate successful employment. By Janice Killey Entering the workforce can be an exciting, yet challenging time for anyone who hasn’t done it before. However, when you’ve been diagnosed with autism it can be even more …

By Debra Muzikar I write this blog on the eve of my son Kevin’s 22nd birthday. For typical children there are certain ages that are milestones – age 5 – first day of Kindergarten – age 16 – driver’s license – age 18 – graduation from high school. This is no different for childre…

By Debra Muzikar Tonight I was impressed that PBS News Hour is focusing on adults on the autism spectrum. John Donvan, co-author with Caren Zucker of In A Different Key: The Story of Autism, visits a program in Phoenix, First Place Transition Academy, that is creating independence, meaningful work a…

by Debra Muzikar In the last decade the world has changed dramatically. Today’s teens unlike prior generations have grown up with iphones, ear buds, tablets, and apps. Although many teens may be digitally savvy they may lack the personal skills needed to make new friends or land a job. Smile &…

By Debra Muzikar 2016 is starting out to be a very good year. Last week I received  the most comprehensive and practical book for those working with young adults with autism or learning differences aged 16 – 26. The book is called “Autism and Learning Differences: An Active Learning Teac…