Easing the Transition

Strategies for creating a smooth shift from summer to school

Dear Ohio Autism Community,


As the calendar turns and summer winds down, the first day of school starts to loom large, bringing with it a surge of anxiety. For students with Autism, transitioning from the freedom of summer to the structure of a new school year can be particularly challenging.


It's important to acknowledge these feelings and provide support to help them prepare mentally and emotionally for the new school year. As a parent who has guided six children and four exchange students through this transition, I want to share some strategies to help ease this process.


First, start by talking to your child about their feelings regarding the new school year. Encourage them to express any worries they may have. If they can articulate their concerns, work together to develop coping strategies.


For those who struggle to communicate their anxiety, draw on your understanding of their needs to anticipate and prepare for potential challenges.


Creating a step-by-step plan can be particularly helpful if transitions are stressful. For instance, if meeting new classmates is difficult, provide a simple script they can use, such as, “My name is Joe, what's yours?”

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Additional Resources


Take advantage of these online sources to help your student mentally prepare: 


Nickelodeon Pack


Navigating College


Resource Overview

Enjoy the remainder of the summer! Wishing everyone a smooth and successful start to the school year. Don't forget you can always email info@autismohio.org or call 614-495-7551. We are here to help!


Warmest regards,


Kathi Machle, President, Autism Society of Ohio

FEATURED PROGRAMMING

Sharing the Olympic Spirit


Thanks to an ASO Programming Grant, individuals of all ages in Brown, Adams, and Highland Counties had a Summer Olympic Games-themed event that included Olympic-themed events, pizza, and ribbons. 



Autism Ohio established these 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. 


Want to start a group or offer programming in your community? We are here to help! Contact us at 614-495-7551 or info@autismohio.org to get started.


AUTISM SOCIETY NEAR ME

Making Medical Visits Easier


The Autism Society of Dayton is taking significant steps to enhance comfort and accessibility for individuals by announcing the availability of healthcare sensory kits.



Healthcare settings can often be overwhelming for individuals with autism, especially during procedures like vaccinations, bloodwork, and other medical appointments. To address this, these kits contain various items that can help individuals manage sensory sensitivities and reduce anxiety, making healthcare experiences more manageable and less stressful. Request a kit here.

Church Hosts Car Show Fundraiser


New Beginnings Church in Delaware is ready to attract car fans this month with the Get Revved Up for Autism car show. This exciting event will take place on Saturday, August 24, from 9 AM to 3 PM.


The event aims to bring together car enthusiasts, families, and Autism supporters for a day filled with fun, cars, and community spirit. Attendees can expect to see a stunning display of classic cars, muscle cars, and custom vehicles, all showcased in the spirit of supporting a great cause. The funds raised during the car show will directly benefit the Autism Society Central Ohio programming.

Teacher Grants for Autism Supplies


The Autism Society of Mahoning Valley is currently accepting applications for its 8th Annual Autism Teacher Mini Grant Program. Awards will be given in three denominations: $500, $250, and $100 to applicants from public and private schools in Mahoning, Trumbull, or Columbiana counties. Online applications are being accepted at their website through August 18, 2024.

Sponsored by the Goulish-Kosco Insurance Agency, ASMV holds this annual program to show appreciation and support for the great teachers in the Valley who help children on the autism spectrum and other special needs. The ASMV Board, a group consisting of community members and parents, will review the applications and select the winners in late August.  

The Autism Society of America is excited to announce the launch of its new Training and Resource Center, an online learning platform offering training courses and resources, tailored to support the diverse needs of the Autism community. It is envisioned to become the leading online training and resource community, empowering learning and creating connections across the community and throughout the country.  Its initial course, Foundations of Autism, explores Autism and its key characteristics, highlighting diverse experiences within the Autism community. Use coupon code Launch10 at checkout to receive $10 off the registration price. This offer expires on August 13, 2024. 

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SUPPORT OUR MISSION

Looking for a fun and impactful way to support those with Autism in your community or throughout the state? Consider hosting a third-party fundraising event! Whether you're an individual, business, or organization, there's something for everyone to get involved in. These events raise vital funds, spread awareness, promote inclusivity, and can significantly impact families living with Autism. 



Let's make a difference together!

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ADVOCACY

AT THE STATE HOUSE


MAKE A DIFFERENCE FOR OHIO FAMILIES


The Autism Society of Ohio (ASO) advocates to improve Ohio’s disability system for a better quality of life for individuals with Autism and their families.  This coalition of the Ohio affiliates of the Autism Society of America actively participated in establishing the Autism Scholarship program, the Communication Disability database, and adding those with disabilities to the Silver Alert system.


We need your help to have legislators take action!


Ohio’s Medicaid-eligible children have little to no access to the gold standard of Autism treatment, Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy. We are requesting an emergency hearing in the Joint Medicaid Oversight Committee (JMOC) to discuss action items needed to stabilize ABA coverage in Ohio Medicaid. Please call or email your state legislator and let them know you support this action. Learn more here.

ON CAPITOL HILL


The Autism CARES Act must be reauthorized by September 30. This act was initially passed under President George W. Bush and has resulted in crucial programs aimed at understanding and managing Autism, Send a message to your US Senators and Representatives to urge them to support reauthorization. Autism Society makes it easy for you here. 


For up-to-date information about federal legislation and policy, check out the Autism Society's Capitol Connection newsletters

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P.O. Box 545, Worthington, Ohio 43085

Email: info@autismohio.org 614.495.7551 autismohio.org