Check this page for useful resources for parents!
Websites:
http://www.autismspeaks.org/ Autism Speaks is a national organization dedicated to increasing autism awareness, funding research, and advocating for the needs of individuals with autism and their families.
http://maapservices.org/ MAAP Services is a nonprofit organization that was established to provide information and suggestions to families of individuals with autism and Asperger Syndrome. Parents can subscribe to a quarterly newsletter, access links to information about their legal rights, and see information about upcoming conferences presented by MAAP Services.
http://www.udel.edu/bkirby/asperger The O.A.S.I.S. site (Online Asperger Syndrome Information & Support) was created by a parent of a child with Asperger Syndrome. This site is designed to give individuals with autism, their families, and professional access to a multitude of information about autism, include links to research, support groups, schools and camps, information about social skills, software, and an entire page devoted to contributions from family and friends of people with autism.
http://www.usevisualstrategies.com/ This is a site with information about using visual strategies with children with autism and links to printable picture cards that can be used to support skills in hygiene, housekeeping, and more.
Books:
Two parents of adult sons with autism co-authored this book in which they reflect upon their experiences parenting children at opposite ends of the spectrum and the similar lessons they both have learned along the way.
This book is designed to help parents and professionals teach social and life skills to adolescent and young adults with high functioning autism and Asperger Syndrome; it focuses on specific skills that will enable these individuals to be more independent and socially appropriate as they prepare for life as an adult.
Local Supports:
- The Arc of Orange County offers advocacy and services to individuals with developmental disabilities in Orange County and their families. Some of the activities hosted through the Arc include spin class, cooking class, swimming, and outings for adults as well as a monthy teen night.
Telephone: 919-942-5119
Website: www.arcoforange.org
- The Autism Society of North Carolina is a state organization with local chapters (including an Orange-Chatham County Chapter) that offers services and advocacy to individuals with autism spectrum disorders and their families.
Website: www.autismsociety-nc.org
- TEACCH is a service, training, and research program for individuals with autism spectrum disorders. Some of the services offered through the TEACCH program include evaluations, parent training and support groups, social groups, counseling, and supported employment, and many of these services are free to North Carolina residents.
Telephone: 919-966-4127
Website: www.teacch.com