Autism in Real Life

A Mother's Journey: Hoping, Coping & Succeeding

by Kymberly Grosso

10 Tips for Making Middle School Work for Kids With Autism

Middle school can be an extremely positive experience. Sure, it can be a time of growing pains and tween angst, but it can also be a time of extreme maturity, growth and independence. Read More

Snorkeling and Autism: The World Beneath the Surface of Things

It reminded me yet again that there are so many things our kids can do…from karate to playing drums to now snorkeling. Yes, the journey with autism is a long and hard road, but as parents, there are times when we need to stop and acknowledge how great life is at that moment. Read More

Students Traumatized in Special Education Across America, Seclusion, Restraint, and Aversives

So I am left wondering, “What exactly needs to happen to our children with autism before America says enough is enough?” In order to get this bill passed, exactly how many kids need to be traumatized? How many kids need to die? I am pleading for America to wake up and end the civil rights injustices that happen to disabled children in the name of education. Read More

Getting Through The Holidays After Losing A Loved One???

This will be the second Christmas we are celebrating without Mom, and I still find myself asking, "How do you get through the holidays after losing a loved one?" Read More

A Conversation with James Durbin: His New Album, Music and Autism

"My mom always talks about being prideful and being proud of who I am. And I was made this way for a reason. Growing up I never knew what that reason would be until I got the pleasure of going on American Idol and sharing with the world who I am." ~ James Durbin Read More

Autism...Acceptance Versus Cure?

As for the cure versus acceptance debate, society often forces us to take sides on issues. People like the “neatness” of black and white, since gray is often messy and complicated. I’ve come to the conclusion that there is no “right” answer to the cure versus acceptance debate. Read More

Teaching Teachers about Autism

Our children with autism will spend the majority of their lives as adults with autism. It is in society's best interest to educate our children to the best of our ability and that includes using autism teaching competencies. Read More

5 Reasons Why Autism Moms Rock!

From running support groups to advocating on behalf of our children, these women are passionate, fearless and a force to be reckoned with. When I look at the autism moms I know, it is easy to see commonalities despite their many differences. So my fellow autism Moms, here's my 5 top reasons for why you rock: Read More

Balancing Budgets on the Backs of the Most Vulnerable...Children with Autism

Do Legislators Not Understand the Impacts of the Budget on Children with Autism?... Or Do They Simply Lack Compassion? Read More

Never Giving Up Hope

When you face the unknown, the joy of witnessing a huge accomplishment can bring you to your knees. It is the feeling of finally letting yourself feel happiness and allowing yourself to dream again for what the future holds for your child. Positive dreams. Read More

Moving Beyond Autism Awareness to Action

April is Autism Awareness Month. Yet I can't help feeling frustrated as we pass out ribbons and light bulbs. Instead of asking "What is autism?", we should be asking "What can I do today, right now, to help kids, adults and families affected by autism?". Read More

Do Couples Divorce Because Of Autism?

After the Diagnosis...Parent Perceptions of Divorce and Autism Parents share their perceptions of divorce and autism. Was autism a reason for their divorce and why? Read More

10 Things You Can do to Help a Family Affected by Autism

What happens when you find out that your friend, family member or neighbor has a child who has been diagnosed with autism? There are many ways you can assist from talking to offering a playdate. Here are 10 things you can do to help a family whose child has been diagnosed with autism: