Autism Awareness Centre

Every month I do a blog post for the Autism Calgary Association about what in the world is going on in the field of autism. Here is the February post.

The University of Ulster in Northern Ireland has launched a new Master’s Degree program that will expand and enhance the management of Sensory Processing Disorder by occupational therapists and other allied health practitioners. The new Master of Science in Sensory Integration degree is based  on a series of modules conducted in partnership with the not-for-profit educational organization, Sensory Integration Network (UK and Ireland).

For individuals with as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), dating can a real challenge. It is a misconception that people on the spectrum don’t want relationships – often they do, but they just don’t know how to meet people or understand the nuances of relationships. How do we effectively teach relationship skills?

I recently became a guest blogger on the Autism Calgary website. I am writing a monthly blog called What in the World is Going On? which features the latest news in the field of autism. Here is my second post for the month of January that I'd like to share with our Autism Awareness Centre readers.

As we welcome in the New Year, let’s have a look back at the Autism Speaks Top Ten Autism Research Achievements of 2011 released this list last month. Some highlights include genetics, prenatal vitamins, brain discoveries, and earlier autism screening.

The University of British Columbia has launched a pilot program for people with intellectual disabilities age 18 and up. The Canadian Inclusive Lives Learning Initiative (CILLI) 8 month web-based program gives participants the opportunity to learn about decision-making, employment, financial literacy, legal matters and how to access outside resources. The program is a combination of on-line learning modules and telephone sessions with facilitators. People with intellectual disabilities can enroll in the course on their own or with a family member or friend. Each month, participants log onto a website to complete a learning module on a topic. In addition, participants receive telephone calls from an expert on that month’s topic and a program co-ordinator who helps them incorporate what they’ve learned into their life plan.

As 2012 fast approaches, I like to spend time reflecting on the past year and all the things to be grateful for. I receive e-mails from all over the world and hear the struggles facing families and professional in other countries. Even though I complain at times, I do realize we have support and options in the field of autism in Canada. Although some areas of the country are stronger than others and more options exist in urban than rural areas, there is still support to be found in most areas along with funding.