Genetics plays outsized role in autism, large study shows

The Colors Of Music

At the intersection of autism and trauma

Study links subset of genetic variants to autism, intellectual disability

Survey shows widespread skepticism of flu shot

Family and Others Looking for Help!!!

FDA Approved Therapy for Anxiety!

Trick or Treat in Mira Mesa Area!!!

Therapeutic Approach to Growth Offering Relationship Development Intervention (RDI)

Sensory-Friendly Trick or Treat

Cortica Care: Comprehensive Autism Treatment

Opening Night Tickets! JK Rowling's The Crimes of Grindelwald

Participate in Research!!! Can a Safe 'Fever' Help Autism Syptoms?

4th Annual Captain Conference on Supporting Inclusion

IEP Evaluation Day in Rancho Bernardo, October 27th

Free Special Education Seminar in Santee, October 27th!

Participate in Research: Caregiver/Family Member Survey

Celebrate at BEERS & CHEERS FOR AUTISM

15th Anniversary Race for Autism at Balboa Park!

NFAR Race for Autism, Justice League Special

Autism is more heritable than anorexia, alcohol dependence, depression and obsessive-compulsive disorder, according to an analysis of data from nearly 4.5 million people1.

At 64 percent, its heritability is similar to that of schizophrenia, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and bipolar disorder, the new study shows.

Heritability refers to the degree to which differences in people's genes, as opposed to environmental factors, account for their traits. The new study measures the heritability of these conditions by calculating how often pairs of siblings - who share about half their DNA - have the same diagnosis compared with half siblings, who have about one-quarter of their genes in common. Read on...

By Jeremy Sicile-Kira

Truly I love music. I'm happy to say that an art gallery asked me to submit paintings for an exhibition about harmony and music. I chose to paint the two musicians and one symphony included in this blogpost because I enjoy their music. First I listened to their music, then translated the sounds of the instruments I heard into emotions, then translated the emotions into colors. Here are the three paintings and descriptions: Read on...

Autism and post-traumatic stress disorder share many traits, but the connection between them was largely overlooked until now.

Having autism can sometimes mean enduring a litany of traumatic events, starting from a young age. And for many, those events may add up to severe and persistent post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Before Gabriel could even talk, his father's girlfriend at the time told him his mother had abandoned him. At age 3, he was sexually abused by a cousin. He was mercilessly bullied once he started school, showed signs of depression by age 7 and by 11 began telling his mother he did not want to live. About three years ago, while at summer camp, he almost drowned. Shortly after that, he experienced life-threatening heatstroke when he went to get his Legos from the car trunk and accidentally locked himself in. Six months ago, just after his grandmother died, he attempted suicide. Read on...

Genetic variants across the genome contribute to about 8 percent of the risk for certain developmental conditions - much more than previously thought, according to a study published last week in Nature1.

The study looked at nearly 7,000 people who have a condition of brain development, such as intellectual disability, developmental delay or autism. The participants are all severely affected, suggesting that their conditions are the result of rare mutations, some of which are spontaneous or noninherited.

The new study found that common variants - those present in more than 5 percent of the population - are also important, however. Read on...

When a child gets the flu, they're not only sick in bed for a week or more, but the illness can also have serious and even life-threatening consequences. In fact, 180 children died after contracting the flu during the 2017-2018 season, one of the most severe on record. Despite the consensus of the medical community, a new national survey by Orlando Health Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children finds that a shocking number of parents are still skeptical about the safety and effectiveness of the flu shot.

"We know that there are a lot of myths and misconceptions about the flu," said Jean Moorjani, MD, a board-certified pediatrician at Arnold Palmer Hospital. "In this day and age we have so many ways to get information, so if anybody has questions or concerns, we recommend they talk to a doctor they trust to get the right information about what's best to protect themselves and their families."

The survey found that more than half of parents with children under age 18 believe that their child can get the flu from the flu shot, while a third think that the shot does not protect against the flu. Read on...

I am a mother of a 12 year old boy, diagnosed with moderate autism, almost nonverbal. I am having to work more hours, as result he will be under care of different care takers. I am searching for a GPS/Tracker where I could hear his surroundings and if needed talking to him to calming him down. He is not able to use a cell phone so this will not be an option. I will appreciate ideas. Thank you [email protected]

I have a freshman son who will be having a transition plan IEP soon to discuss high school, and post high plan vocational/education objectives.

I am looking for parents that can give an overview of what this process entails with do's and don'ts, or whoulda, shoulda, coulda's. What do we need to know to as parents to guide our teens yet still advocate and work with the school for the best outcomes and objectives. I know a few other parents with freshman and we are all at different high schools looking for support and guidance in this education process. Any help and resources are appreciated. Thank you so much!
-gina
[email protected]

I have a three-year old son with ASD. We toured a preschool today that's part of SD Unified that is not a good option for him. Does anyone have any recommendations for the best preschool programs for children with ASD? We are more than willing to relocate to a different school district, including Del Mar, Solana Beach, etc. All referrals are greatly appreciated! Thank you!! [email protected]

My family & I are relocating to San Diego in November for my husband's new job in Sorrento Valley. We have two boys aged 8(2nd grade) & 10(5th grade) who have high functioning autism. Academically they are on par, but have the behavioral/social issues. We are trying to figure out what the best school district would be for our boys in terms of in-school programs. We currently live in North LA county (the Santa Clarita area). They are in a SDC for high functioning autism & they have programs that go all the way through high school. Some of the places we are looking to buy in are Rancho Bernardo (Westwood), South Carlsbad, Rancho Peñasquitos, Scripps Ranch. I know that is all over the place but we'd like to stay in north county and are open to any other suggestions. Schooling for the boys is most important in our move. I would love any input. Not just for elementary schools but beyond. We are open to charter schools as well if you know of any that would suit their criteria.

I hear so many opposing opinions as to which are the best and the worst districts. So hard to navigate and I am feeling lost:( I would really appreciate any guidance.
Thank you in advance,
Sharon [email protected]

If you have a question or request for this newsletter group, please send your email request to [email protected]. People who can help you will email you directly with their responses.

Safer Than Prescription Medication for Anxiety and ADHD/ADD and the Effects are Permanent!

Microcurrent 4 Kids is San Diego's premiere pediatric microcurrent therapy program for children, teens and adults with special needs. Our program is the BEST therapy for Autism & ADHD, as you will see by the rapid improvement in your child's skills and abilities, because of how well it promotes developmental growth and couples with ALL other therapies.

Some of the neuro-developmental issues we commonly see include:

• Autism/Asperger's
• Sensory Processing Disorder
• Anxiety
• Depression
• ADD/ADHD
• Tourette's Syndrome
• Developmental Delay
• Epilepsy
• And many more!

Center for Thoughtful Lasting Change and TERI Crimson Center for Speech and Language are hosting a Halloween Trick or Treat event for you and your family!

Saturday, October 27th at 1pm to 4pm
9606 Tierra Grande St.
San Diego, CA 92129

--Bring the entire family and wear your best costumes
--Children can practice social skills such as greetings, knocking on doors, and conversation skills
--Children can run through the trick-or-treat routine in a safe, familiar environment
--We will be dressing up, but not excessively scary
--We will have different treat options for those with special diets
--This is a free event but there will be snacks available for purchase

https://www.crimsoncenter.com

Therapeutic Approach to Growth believes that every individual is unique and has the potential for significant growth. We assume and foster competence while honoring family values and priorities. Our holistic approach is built upon trusting, supportive relationships and collaboration between disciplines and families.

We specializing in the development and implementation of individualized comprehensive programs utilizing Relationship Development Intervention (RDI), Occupational Therapy, Sensory Integration, Sensory Processing, Applied Behavior Analysis, Art Therapy, and Life Balance Yoga Therapy.

Offering support in the San Diego, Carlsbad, Orange County, and the Inland Empire.

In addition to supporting our clients directly, we offer guidance to parents, grandparents, therapists, teachers, siblings, school staff, babysitters etc.

Therapeutic Approach to Growth
http://tagforgrowth.com
[email protected] (858) 689-2027

Trumpet Behavioral Health and Regus is putting on a Sensory Friendly Trick or Treat event for families the day before Halloween. Kids with Special Needs and without are invited to participate. PLEASE register here: www.tbh.com/events (scroll down to find the San Diego Trick or Treat event, click the "register button", and follow the prompts to include your contact name and information).

Date: 10/30/18
Time: 3:30-5 pm
Location: 9920 Pacific Heights Blvd. Ste #150, San Diego, CA 92121
Who: ALL community member are invited that are looking to trick or treat in a safe and quieter environment

We will have activities and refreshments in the lobby for families and children!

Contact Lauren Cox with any questions:
(408) 499-0700
[email protected]
www.tbh.com

Experience a unique and effective approach to autism therapy.

Our aim is to bring to families everywhere the most effective therapies for the treatment of autism. Our integrated care model is based on the scientific research and clinical practice of our founder, Dr. Suzanne Goh. We seek to set a new global standard for autism care by achieving superior developmental outcomes for the children and families we serve.

At Cortica, we believe the world needs a higher standard of care for all those living with autism, or a potential diagnosis of autism. Families like yours deserve effective, collaborative, caring therapies that are accessible and reasonably priced, no matter who you are or where you live.

The Cortica Care Model:

• Neurophysiology
• Family and Home
• Biochemistry
• Cognition and Behavior
• Sensorimotor
• Communication

As a thanks for your continuous fan support, we're giving you the first opportunity to purchase tickets to this year's special needs movie fundraiser!

Join us November 16, 7 pm at UltraStar Cinemas Mission Valley for the wizardly celebration of Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald.

Our events offer much more than just seeing the movie on OPENING NIGHT. As our guest, you can dress in your house colors and show off your themed souvenir event badges. You can create a magic potion bottle and wizard wand with other J.K. Rowling fans! You'll also enjoy movie snacks and fantastic prizes. All before viewing the much anticipated sequel, Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald.

Proceeds from this event will benefit the Special Needs Resource Foundation of San Diego. The mission of SNRFSD is to help parents and advocates in the special needs community to overcome challenges of the family's journey by bringing together people, information and resources in the resource guide called Flourishing Families. Special Needs Resource Foundation of San Diego is a nonprofit 501(c)(3). All donations are 100% tax exempt for federal income tax purposes. Tax ID #46-4543603

Buy your OPENING NIGHT tickets today - before everyone else!

This pilot study will enroll 12 families with ASD children ages 6-16 years old in a controlled study, within the San Diego.

If you are interested in participating in this pilot study please contact Frances Poteet at [email protected].

Participants who complete the entire study will receive a $20 Amazon gift card!

Saturday, October 27 at 8:30 AM - 3 PM
Liberty Station Conference Center
2600 Laning Rd, San Diego, California 92106
$15 registration in advance - $30 at the door

Learn about the research and practical guidelines for using evidence-based practices to promote inclusion throughout the lifespan.

Register at https://autismsocietysandiego.rallybound.org/4th-annual-captain-conference/Donate/Tickets

Thomas S. Nelson, Esq.
The Special Education Advocacy & Law Firm of Thomas S. Nelson
16466 Bernardo Center Drive, Suite 106
San Diego, California 92128
Tel: (858) 945-6621
www.specialedlaw.us

RSVP Required: 858-945-6621 or [email protected]

Please join Andrea Katz, Ed.D. and Andrea Bazer, M.Ed. to:
-Share your experiences with other East County Parents
-Become an empowered parent advocate
-Get feedback to your questions with one on one time with an advocate

Saturday, October 27, 2018
10:30 A.M. - 1:30 P.M.
10:30-11:15 Group Informational Presentation
11:15- Specifics of your child's IEP

Bring your child's IEP to:
7467 Mission Gorge Road, Santee, CA
Inside the clubhouse, ample parking spaces

Please register by contacting, Andrea Bazer at [email protected] or online at http://bazeradvocacy.com

My name is Richie Sapp. My twin brother, Mikey, has been attending the TERI day program for several years now. I am a third-year medical student (MS3) at Stanford School of Medicine where I am currently taking a research year to focus my efforts in medical education, specifically to improve patient care for individuals with disabilities. I am creating an elective course for medical students/PA students for Winter Quarter 2018/19 and I could use your help.

Please consider completing this first survey and if your son/daughter would like to complete the second survey on their own, I would welcome that too.

1) This survey is for parents/caregivers of individuals with disabilities. Caregiver/Family Member Survey, which will help me with what content to put together for the course. Please feel free to share the survey with anyone who might be interested in sharing their experiences. Here is the link: https://goo.gl/forms/FC0pVxymGi92OBq73

2) Additionally, if you know anyone with a disability who would like to speak about their own experiences, there is a separate survey for individuals with disabilities. The link is below:

https://goo.gl/forms/S2aJ7DuFOqhqgxl73

Thank you so much for all your support!

Please email me if you have any questions.

Thank you,
Richie Sapp
([email protected])

Thursday, November 01, 2018
Time 5:00 PM
Mike Hess North Park, 3812 Grim Ave, San Diego
Cost: $35

Lincoln, Gustafson & Cercos Law proudly present the 5th Annual Beers and Cheers for Autism benefiting Autism Society San Diego. Join us for a relaxing evening out at Mike Hess Brewery North Park and help us raise money for our recreational programs.

Your ticket includes:

• 4 Beer Tastings
• Dinner from Born in Brooklyn Food Truck
• Hess Souvenir Beer Glass
• Dessert Courtesy of Alicias Delicias and Little Hunny Cakery
• Silent Auction Filled with a Variety of Fun Items

Saturday, April 6, 2019
Balboa Park, San Diego

Join us at the Race for Autism as we come together to celebrate 15 years of making a difference for those with autism in San Diego. It's going to be SUPER!

Please note: This year's Race is the first weekend in April during Autism Awareness Month!

PLUS: Don't miss out on our Family Friendly Pricing available through December 31st.

Learn more or contact NFAR at 858-679-8800

Special Pricing Good Thru 12/31/18

Attention Team Captains - here's a great way to form a team for the Race for Autism! Take advantage of our Justice League pricing package for the 15th anniversary!

Justice League Special - $25 flat rate for 15 persons! This includes timing fees and larger T-shirt sizes.

To apply or learn more, please contact us at 858-679-8800.
https://www.raceforautism.org