Gaining Independence as an Individual with ASD
Also inside: Driving with autism? Alternatives to Driving? and upcoming events ... 
March 22, 2018
Many resources are available to help teens with autism learn to drive.
In this Issue: Gaining Independence 

Living independently is a goal for many teens with autism, especially as they transition to adulthood. Having the ability to travel from place to place with little to no assistance helps young adults claim this independence. For some, this means driving. Others may need another solution.

How do families decide whether their teen with ASD should drive? What resources exist to help them learn to drive? 

Each article in this issue of Dispatch explores how young adults on the autism spectrum can gain independence through driving and public transportation. Read on to learn more...
How can families determine if their teen with autism is ready to drive? 
Is Your Teen Ready to Drive? 

Driving is a milestone for all teens and young adults. Parents of teens with autism might wonder if driving is a possibility for their child. What factors should families consider when determining if their teen is ready to drive?  

Read more about how families can determine if their young adult is ready to drive. 
How many teens with autism are getting their drivers license? 
Getting Licensed

Did you know  the majority of teens with autism who receive a license do so at 17 years old, just like many other teens? 

A recent study from the Center for Injury Research and Prevention and the Center for Autism Research at the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia shows that many families with teens on the autism spectrum choosing to become licensed drivers.

Read more to learn about this research on teen driving and autism and tangible recommendations from clinical experts. 
Teens need to practice their driving to become experienced, skilled drivers. 
Driving Practice

Where can teens and young adults with autism and their parents go to learn about driving? The Center for Injury Research and Prevention at the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia has developed an evidence based website, TeenDriverSource.org, to help parents and teens navigate the steps from thinking about driving, to obtaining a permit, and becoming a licensed driver. 

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What are the alternatives to driving? 
Driving Alternatives?

While obtaining a license often means independence, it's not for everyone. What options exist for teens and young adults with autism who are not driving, but want to be independent?   

Why is Stephen taking the Eagles Autism Challenge?  
To help others understand what it means to be on the spectrum
(click below to watch the video)


We want to hear from you! What's moving you to take the challenge? Share your story with us on Facebook or email us!

Saturday, May 19th, join the Philadelphia Eagles players, alumni, coaches, executives, cheerleaders and SWOOP on Lincoln Financial Field for the 
first-ever 
Eagles Autism Challenge bike race and 5K run/walk to 
raise funds for collaborative autism research and programs at CHOP, Drexel University, and Thomas Jefferson University.

 
or 
learn more and start your own team at  www.EaglesAutismChallenge.org.
Upcoming Workshops & Events

Sunday, April 22, 2018 - 9am-1:30pm

Wednesday, May 30, 2018 - 9am-4pm

boy w. magnifying glass
You Can Help Us Learn More about ASD!

Advances in understanding autism and related disorders are only possible as a direct result of the participation of individuals and families. We have opportunities for all ages, and you do not need an autism diagnosis to participate.

Simply put - scientists cannot make real progress without your help. We need you!
Learn about current studies 

  
Get Up to Speed  on  CAR News & Upcoming Events!

STAY CONNECTED!

The Center for Autism Research | Children's Hospital of Philadelphia
267-426-7450 | autism@email.chop.edu