Navigating Dental Care: Advocating for Autism-Friendly Practices

Kathi J. Machle, President | info@autismohio.org

Kathi's son, Kieran, at the age of 4.


As we navigate through February, I'm reminded of the importance of advocacy and support within our community while we honor Black History Month. Let's also shed light on National Children's Dental Health Month and address the unique challenges that children with Autism face in maintaining oral health.


Children with Autism encounter specific issues related to their oral health. Read on to learn how ASO is working to create a world where dental care is accessible and accommodating for every individual.

FEATURED PROGRAMMING

Making Dental Visits a Success  

Establishing a dental routine for children with Autism can be challenging, but it can become a positive experience with careful planning and communication. Click for some tips to make dental visits smoother and more successful!

LEARN MORE
DOWNLOAD THE DENTAL HANDOUT
DOWNLOAD THE ALL ABOUT ME HANDOUT

AUTISM SOCIETY NEAR ME

Sip, Savor, and Support!


Autism Society of Mahoning Valley - The inaugural Wine & Chocolate Dinner, held this month, was an enchanting evening of culinary delights and heartfelt generosity to support the newly launched Sophia's Gift project. This vital project addresses significant long-term needs, inspired by the moving true story in the film "Sophia, I Love You." The event also marked the local premiere of this award-winning short film chronicling the inspiring journey of a local family.  


Read more about the Autism Society of Mahoning Valley's successful event here.

SUPPORT OUR MISSION

As the incidence of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) has increased, the need for increased resources, such as local programs and services for individuals and families across Ohio communities, grows with it. One of the ways that we fund support programs and raise awareness in our state, ASO works with the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles to offer an Ohio Autism Awareness license plate. The specialty license plate costs $35 annually - of that, $25 goes directly to ASO who then shares a percentage of that with all of its statewide affiliates. Please consider getting a plate, too!

PURCHASE YOUR PLATE

NEWS FROM THE STATEHOUSE

House Bill No. 321 was recently introduced by OH State Representatives Gary Click (R-Vickery) and Brian Lorenz (R-Powell) to create an electronic, state-wide special needs database within the 9-1-1 system.  This would allow Ohio residents to register for the system to indicate information such as a medication or allergy to assist in emergency treatment.  Autism Society of Ohio communicated support of this bill as a means to assist in the identification, safety, rescue, and treatment of those with Autism, particularly the non-verbal, pointing out that nearly 50 percent of the Autism population wanders at one time or another.   The bill is currently being considered in a House committee.  ASO will continue to monitor its progress and keep you up to date.

CAPITAL NEWS FROM ASA

The Disability Policy Seminar is a three-day legislative conference taking place April 8-10 that strengthens federal advocacy efforts through providing training, learning opportunities, and updates. Register online by March 29 or register onsite in Washington D.C. from April 7 -9 for full access to all sessions, meeting materials, and meals. Learn invaluable skills and organize your community to take action!

REGISTER


P.O. Box 545, Worthington, Ohio 43085

Email: info@autismohio.org 614.495.7551 autismohio.org