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April is Autism Awareness Month. Once considered a single disorder, autism is, in fact, a series of different neurological disorders, known as autism spectrum disorders. These include autism, Asperger's syndrome, and Pervasive Developmental Disorder. These disorders affect a child's social interaction, communication skills and behavior. A child suffering from an autistic disorder may not be able to speak, may become fixated on a particular object or may not be able to tolerate a simple hug or other physical contact.
There is no known cause, and no known cure. Suggested causes include genetics, vaccines containing mercury, even men fathering children in older age, or the time of year a person is born. Also, diseases such as encephalitis, fragile X syndrome, tuberous sclerosis and untreated phenylketonuria may trigger autistic behavior.
| | MUSIC THERAPY UPDATE
Christopher Purdy visited the music therapy clinic at Ohio University in Athens on April 23, 2008, to talk with Professors and therapists Anita Louise Steele and Kamille Geist, and student therapist Sarah Paysack. We listen in on a music therapy session with 10-year-old Christian, a young man with autism. He uses the piano and songs as a bridge to language. Listen to this interview by clicking here.
For more information, contact Professor Steele steelea@ohio.edu
JOHN AND JANNA BROCKERT are Christian's parents. They tell us about the struggles and the joys of raising a child with autism. The Brockstets describe the "early signs" of autism in Christian, plus struggles with school, family, and socialization. Listen to this interview by clicking here.
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AUTISM SCHOLARSHIP-OHIO DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION
Parents can be reimbursed up to $20,000.00 in expenses for their autistic child's education.
Christopher Purdy talks with Paul Sogan and Carolyn Head, Educational Consultants, Department of Exceptional Children, Ohio Department of Education. Listen to this interview by clicking here.
Call them at 614.466.2650, or visit www.ode.state.oh.us (search 'autism scholarship')
How does my child qualify?
How do I apply for the scholarship?
What expenses are covered?
Must therapies come from one provider?
What if I can't find professional services in my district?
Paul Sogan and Carolyn Head can help with these and more questions.
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AUTISM SOCIETY OF CENTRAL OHIO
www.autism-centralohio.com
This organization is a good introduction to local resources for parents and all those affected by an autism spectrum disorder. Listen here for a visit with Autism Society of Central Ohio President Pat Cloppert She also discusses a program for young adults with Autism at Ohio State, ASPIRATIONS
ASPIRATIONS contact: Jeff Siegel, MSW (614) 292-4185 siegel.45@osu.edu |
 | | Founded in 2005, Haugland Learning Center (HLC) was created to serve the educational needs of autistic children in Central Ohio. The center personalizes each child's curriculum to help fill the needs of that child, from ABA-based direct instruction to classroom inclusion with other children. HLC staff has extensive experience working with children on the Autism Spectrum. |
Coming soon:
Music Therapy and Autistic Children, Part 2
Notes from a pediatrician
The Ohio Department of Education and the Autism Scholarship
..and Gary's story
Additional material:
The Autism Collaboration Web site: http://www.autism.org
AN AUTISM FACT SHEET- some FAQs and links to resources
About.com:Autism - Do Vaccines cause Autism?
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