Finding Wisdom in Words

How books helped unlock my understanding of autism

Photo - Kieran enjoys reading. Here he is reading about the History

of Door County, Wisconsin, on a recent vacation. 

 

Dear Ohio Autism Community,


I am, at heart, a reader. Whenever I want to learn something or find answers, my first stop is the library or a bookstore. Back in 1995, when Kieran was first diagnosed with Autism, I instinctively turned to books for guidance, but there wasn’t much available at the time. One book, however, stands out—There's a Boy in Here by Judy and Sean Barron. That book gave me invaluable insight, more than any other resource, by showing me that Kieran’s perceptions of the world were likely different from mine. This understanding helped me develop greater compassion and patience as he navigated the challenges of daily life.


Fast forward nearly 30 years, and today, I’m amazed at how much information is available on Autism. It’s hard to keep up with the number of new books yearly! Since October is National Book Month, I wanted to share a few titles that have resonated with me (see sidebar). While this isn’t a comprehensive list or an endorsement of any particular author, these books offered comfort, understanding, and practical guidance throughout my journey.


This month is also a wonderful time to recognize the power of reading, writing, and literature for everyone. An excellent resource is the Next Chapter Book Clubs, which offers inclusive reading opportunities for adults with developmental disabilities. Kieran has been a proud local club member for over 10 years, and it remains his favorite activity of the week. I encourage you to find a club near you.


Today, I’m grateful for our progress, with more resources available to families and individuals affected by Autism. Yet, the most powerful resource is our community, where families, professionals, and advocates unite to create change. As we expand access to services and build inclusive environments, I encourage you to explore our resources, connect with our programs, and remember—you’re never alone on this journey.


Wishing you the joy of a good book this month!


Kathi Machle, President, Autism Society of Ohio


Please don't hesitate to reach out if you need someone to talk to. You can always email info@autismohio.org or call 614-495-7551. We are here to help!

 

Books That Have Made an Impact


Unwritten Rules of Social Relationships

By Dr. Temple Grandin and Sean Barron


Ten Things Every Child with Autism Wishes You Knew

By Ellen Notbohm


I Will Die on This Hill

By Meghan Ashburn and Jules Edwards


The First Look Series

By Pat Thomas


Teach Your Child to Read in 100 Easy Lessons

By Siegfried Englemann


The Reason I Jump: The Inner Voice of a Thirteen-Year-Old Boy with Autism

By Naoki Higashida


Uniquely Human: A Different Way of Seeing Autism

By Barry Prizant


Communication Alternatives in Autism

By Edlyn Vallejo Peña


October is Adaptive and Alternative Communication Month

FALL ACTIVITIES TO ENJOY!

Join Local Autism Societies for Fun and Supportive Celebrations

Looking for sensory-friendly Halloween and fall activities? Local Autism Societies are offering a variety of inclusive events to ensure everyone can enjoy the season in a supportive environment. From trunk-or-treats to pumpkin decorating, these events are tailored to meet the needs of the Autism community while ensuring a fun and festive experience for all.


Here’s a roundup of some great activities happening in your area:

Autism Society Central Ohio will offer three separate Trunk or Treats in Delaware County (October 25th, 6 to 7 pm, 2163 State Route 37 East, Delaware, OH) , Franklin County (October 27, 2 to 3 pm, Embassy Suites, 5100 Upper Metro Place, Dublin, OH) and Fairfield County (October 20, 3 to 4:30 p.m., The Learning Spectrum South, 6355 Winchester Blvd, Canal Winchester, OH). For more information, email info@autismcentralohio.org


Autism Society of Dayton's Annual Trunk or Treat, October 19, from 1 to 3 p.m., 4801 Springfield St., Dayton OH.  


Autism Society of Greater Akron is offering Halloween in the Park, Sunday, October 20 from noon to 3 pm at Trail Lake Park, 605 Ravenna Rd., Streetsboro, OH. For more information or to register (required), go to https://autismakron.org/halloween-in-the-park/


Autism Society of Mahoning Valley will have a Fall Harvest Festival and Trunk or Treat on October 26 from noon to 3 p.m. At Cornerhouse Christian Church, 6954 Chestnut Ridge Rd., Hubbard, OH. To register, go to https://autismmv.org/event/october-2024-family-outing-fall-harvest-festival trunk-or-treat-in-partnership-with-aatap/

Trick of Treat Cards

Introducing our Printable Trick-or-Treat Cards! Perfect for kids or adults who may be non-verbal or have difficulty communicating, these cards make Halloween fun and inclusive for everyone. Simply print and bring along while trick-or-treating to easily share a friendly message. Spread some Halloween joy, one card at a time! Download yours today!

ASO NEAR ME

 

Walk with Purpose

Autism Society of Northwest Ohio your calendars for the 12th Annual Autism Walk, the premier autism awareness event in Northwest Ohio, happening Sunday, October 27, 2024, from 9 - 11 AM at Franklin Park Mall in Toledo! This heartwarming community event not only promotes awareness but also raises essential funds for the Autism Society of Northwest Ohio (ASNO). Every dollar raised stays local, directly benefiting families and individuals affected by Autism in Lucas and surrounding counties.Family friendly fun plus access to valuable resources from local autism organizations! Register now at asno.org/register to sponsor the event, or sign up for the walk today!

REGISTER HERE
 

OTHER EVENTS

 

AUTISM PARENTING SUMMIT


Learn how to help your child THRIVE!


Free Autism Parenting Summit October 11-14, 2024. Autism experts will provide strategies on a broad range of subjects like communication, social skills, sensory needs, anxiety, and picky eating. For a FREE pass to this virtual event, click HERE.

 
 

The Great Pumpkin Race & Fall Festival


How fast can your gourd go? ï»żJoin us The Great Pumpkin Race and Fall Festival, October 12, 10 am to 2 pm, Lindon Grove Elementary, 4122 Myrtle Ave, Cincinnati, OH. Registration is limited – sign up HERE!

 

RESOURCES

 
 

Webinar Video Link “What to do if Your Child is Arrested"


The recent webinar, co-hosted by our Maryland affiliates and the Autism Justice Center, is now available for viewing. The event, featuring facilitators Melissa Rosenberg (Executive Director, Autism Society Maryland), Thai Greene (Board President, Autism Society Baltimore-Chesapeake), and Carlean Ponder (Director, Autism Justice Center), is a revealing session that promises to enlighten you with the do’s, the don’ts, and what to be aware of if your loved one is arrested.


Panelists represent public safety, parents, autistics, attorneys, and community members who will share their stories, best practices, and advice on what to do if your child/autistic adult is arrested. There is great strength in knowledge from the experienced, so let’s build a community of knowledgeable support for positive outcomes. Check out the recorded video and resources from this powerful event using the links below!


CLICK HERE for links to the videos and resource materials

CLICK HERE for the video recording in English

HAGA CLIC AQUÍ para ver la grabaciĂłn del vĂ­deo en español

Bring Programming to Your Area!


Autism Ohio established grants of up to $750 to empower local initiatives. These grants offer financial assistance to foster community-driven solutions in counties without direct coverage from one of our affiliate offices. If you want to establish a support group, organize seasonal events, or assist families in your community, please contact us at 614-495-7551 or email info@autismohio.org. Let's make a difference in the lives of individuals with Autism and their families across Ohio and their families across Ohio.

HEAR THE STORY
 

SUPPORT OUR MISSION

 

Double Your Impact and Make Every Dollar Count for Autism Support


Did you know that many companies offer matching gift programs to encourage philanthropy among their employees? Some companies even extend this benefit to spouses and retirees! That means once you’ve donated to the Autism Society of Ohio, your employer may match your donation dollar for dollar, doubling your impact.


The Autism Society of Ohio is a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit organization and is eligible for corporate matching from companies that offer this benefit. Take a moment to check if your employer participates in a matching gift program. If you need assistance or have questions, please contact us at info@autismohio.org.

 

ADVOCACY

 

AT THE STATE HOUSE


Bridging the Gap for Autistic Individuals in the Legal System


The Autism Scholarship Program (ASP) gives the parents of children with autism who qualify for a scholarship the choice to send the child to a special education program other than the one operated by the school district of residence to receive their education and the services outlined in the child's Individualized Education Program (IEP) or Autism Education Plan (AEP). 


Eligibility


Any student may qualify for the Autism Scholarship Program if they meet at least one of the following criteria:


1) A student who has been identified by their district as a child with autism and for whom the district has created an individualized education plan (IEP). The student must have a current IEP from the district of residence that is finalized and all parties, including the parent, must be in agreement with the IEP.


OR


2) A student who receives a private diagnosis of autism and reflects this in their individualized education plan (IEP) or in an autism education plan (AEP) developed by the district of residence. 

LEARN MORE

ON CAPITAL HILL


Autism Justice Center: Advocating for Equity and Empowerment


The Autism Justice Center, created in partnership with the Autism Society, Decriminalize Developmental Disabilities, The Arc, and the Consortium for Citizens with Disabilities, aims to address discrimination faced by individuals with Autism and other developmental disabilities in areas like housing, healthcare, employment, education, and the criminal legal system. Through advocacy, empowerment, and justice initiatives, the Center supports individuals and families with resources, legislative advocacy, and legal assistance. Its groundbreaking work includes training for first responders, creating resources for legal professionals, and addressing the intersection of racial and developmental justice. Learn more about the Center’s mission and efforts to create a more equitable future for the Autistic community.

LEARN MORE

Your voice matters in advocating for policies that support the Autism community. Stay informed and get involved!

 

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P.O. Box 545, Worthington, Ohio 43085

Email: info@autismohio.org 614.495.7551 autismohio.org