Monthly News | September 2023

Hello Administrators,

September is an exciting time for all of us at ARI as we move toward awarding ARI’s 2023 Scientific Research Grant Awards, which will fund innovative investigations that show realistic promise for impacting the lives of autistic people. Research is the foundation of progress. It helps us better understand the unique needs and strengths of people with autism. It empowers the community to develop appropriate strategies to improve health, well-being, and overall quality of life.

Our online educational resources provide the community with the knowledge to advocate for research and appropriate medical care. If you haven't already, be sure to check them out at Autism.org/webinars.

As we look to the months ahead, I want to emphasize the importance of continued collaboration within our organization and with other research institutions, professionals, and, most importantly, the individuals and families of the autism community. 

Stephen M. Edelson, Ph.D.

Executive Director

New Editorial from Dr. Edelson: Revisiting Two Lesser-Known Teaching Strategies to Enhance Speech Production in Autism

New on Autism.org: Sexual Victimization in Autism

** Trigger warning: this article discusses sexual victimization and suicide **

Back-to-School Resources

Whether you’re a parent preparing a child for grade school or an adult transitioning into or out of college, the back-to-school season can present unique challenges for families and individuals with autism. Not only do schedules and priorities change, but social and sensory processing skills are tested in new environments with new people.

As with any transition period, navigating and coping with these changes can be challenging. Take a look at these informative articles and webinars for insight and tips on what to expect.

Our Latest Annual Report is Online Now

Enrolling Now: Autism Biomarker Study

From ARRI: New multi-national study adds to evidence linking alterations of the gut microbiome to autism

From ARRI: Prenatal exposure to cannabis may increase likelihood of autism

Participate in Research

Participants needed: Enroll for a new Research Study that aims to understand how autistic adults use strategies in their everyday lives to help them with sensory, executive functioning, and other differences.

ARI Webinar 9/6:

Examining the Transition to Adulthood in Autism*

Learn about the transition to adulthood, including considerations for advancing service access and navigation, employment support, and post-secondary education access.

Presented by

David Nicholas, PhD

University of Calgary

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1 p.m. Eastern Time (U.S.) 9/6/23

ARI Webinar 9/13:

Screen Time and Social Engagement

Learn about emerging research on the impact of screen time on social engagement of autistic children during early childhood development.

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Presented by

Dr. Karen Heffler, MD

Drexel University College of Medicine 

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1 p.m. Eastern Time (U.S.) 9/13/23

ARI Webinar 9/20

Social Media Use and Autism – Teens and Adults

Learn research updates on the impact of social media use on teens and adults with autism.

Presented by

Dr. Pamela Wisniewski

Vanderbilt University

1 p.m. Eastern Time (U.S.)

9/20/23

*This is a joint presentation by ARI and the World Autism Organisation.

Making a Difference in 2023