danny's wish

We Are Now On Wordpress!

2010-07-26T10:49:00.000-07:00

We have some exciting news to share, we are now on wordpress! This is where all of the new Danny's Wish blog posts will go from this moment on so please make a note of the change.

Here is the NEW link to our blog: http://www.letschatautism.com/

See you there!

This week's featured app: iWriteWords

2010-07-20T11:33:00.001-07:00

Here is another of our favorite iPad apps! iWriteWords is nicely pictured here below on the iTouch, but now imagine it on the much larger screen of the iPad! It is wonderful for all children and especially wonderful for our autistic children! Interactive, fun and all about learning!

Product description from developer: “iWriteWords teaches your child handwriting while playing a fun and entertaining game. Help Mr. Crab collect the numbers in sequence by dragging him with your finger – and drawing the letter at the same time. Once all the letters in the word are drawn properly, a cute drawing appears. Tilt your iPhone or iPod Touch and watch the letters slide into the rotating hole and advance to the next level.”

Check out more about his app HERE!

Free App! "Autism Xpress"!

2010-07-13T12:41:00.000-07:00

Danny's Wish would like to highlight another amazing App from the iPad called "Autism Xpress" Please check out the description below and go here to download it for FREE! Woot!

The ‘Autism Xpress’ iPhone Application has been created to help promote greater awareness about autism spectrum disorders. It is designed to encourage people with autism to recognizes and express their emotions through its fun and easy to use interface.

We Love ACC apps for the iPad!

2010-07-06T11:36:00.000-07:00

We at Danny's Wish really love all the ACC apps for the iPad! The one we are featuring this week is called Prologuo2Go.

Proloquo2Go, the augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) system that has taken the world by storm, is now available on iPad. Proloquo2Go is latin for speak out loud and that’s exactly what it helps people do! It is pronounced “Pro” as in professional, “lo” as in low, and “quo” as in quotation. The “2Go” means mobile.

Proloquo2Go version 1.3 has been optimized for the iPad and will be a free update for existing users.

Because the iPad has a significantly larger screen than the iPod touch and iPhone you will be able to use grids of up to 64 items. Proloquo2Go 1.3 also supports all device orientations allowing you to hold the iPad any way you like. Proloquo2Go 1.3 is a universal App allowing you to use the exact same application on an iPad, iPhone and iPod touch. Now you can use it on an iPad at home, at work or at school and use it on an iPod touch or iPhone when going to the movies, a restaurant or hiking.

Information for this article found here: http://www.proloquo2go.com/About/article/ipad

Legislators vote to mandate autism coverage

2010-06-29T12:22:00.000-07:00

New York lawmakers have approved legislation to require health insurance companies to provide coverage for screening, diagnosis and lifetime treatment of autism spectrum disorders.

The bill passed in the Senate last week and in the Assembly on Monday night.

Citing a federal Centers for Disease Control estimate that one out of 110 children is diagnosed with the disorder, sponsors say the measure could increase overall health insurance premiums by as much as 2 percent in New York. The state would join 20 others that already require coverage.

Affected children struggle with social interaction and communication, ranging from mild to severe symptoms.

Sen. Roy McDonald, a Saratoga Republican, said he has two grandchildren with autism. “My guys don’t talk, and it’s a very serious thing,” he said.

Under the bill, which still needs Gov. David Paterson’s signature, state health officials will identify minimum coverage options for clinically proven treatment and therapy. Paterson will review it, spokesman Morgan Hook said Tuesday.

“The new law will prevent denial of coverage on the basis that treatments are educational rather than medical in their necessity, the most common grounds for refusal,” said Assemblyman Joseph Morelle, a Rochester Democrat and bill sponsor. “To that end, it allows families to appeal denials to an independent review panel if an initial grievance to the insurer is unsuccessful.”

Therapies covered by the new scope of insurance must be clinically proven and peer reviewed, Morelle said. Some parents had urged coverage of experimental treatments as well.

The Health Plan Association, which represents insurers, generally opposes mandates because they increase the cost of health care, spokeswoman Leslie Moran said.

“This bill is particularly troubling because it is so far-reaching,” she said Tuesday. “There is no age limit on coverage. There’s no annual or lifetime cap on the amount that would have to be paid for services.”

Moran said many of the services are currently available in more appropriate settings like schools, and insurers don’t believe they should pay for services such as teaching daily living and academic skills. They also think the 2 percent estimate is low - New Yorkers already pay almost $28 billion in annual health care premiums, and that would mean at least another half-billion dollars.

Judith Ursitti, the regional director for Autism Speaks whose son Jack was diagnosed in 2005, said her family’s out-of-pocket costs have ranged from about $60,000 a year initially to about $25,000 to $30,000 now that he is in school and almost 7 years old. “It’s rare that parents are able to access coverage for children or adults,” she said.

Jack, who was diagnosed at the severe end of the spectrum, is speaking after many thousands of dollars and years of therapy, Ursitti said. She and other advocates stressed the importance of early diagnosis and said it should happen between 18 and 24 months, though only about half of insurers reimburse for a simple screening test.

Info from this article found here: http://libn.com/blog/2010/06/23/legislators-vote-to-mandate-autism-coverage/

Another iPad Success Story!

2010-06-24T11:37:00.000-07:00

We posted about Danny's success with the iPad earlier this week and now we wanted to post another success story we found.

Shannon Rosa @shannonrosa (on twitter) posted an amazing article on her blog: http://www.blogher.com/ipad-nearmiracle-my-son-autism It is about her son Leo who has autism and all the success he has found with the iPad. Here is a small part of the article:

"My son Leo's life was transformed when a five-dollar raffle ticket turned into a brand-new iPad. I'm not exaggerating. Before the iPad, Leo's autism made him dependent on others for entertainment, play, learning, and communication. With the iPad, Leo electrifies the air around him with independence and daily new skills. People who know Leo are amazed when they see this new boy rocking that iPad. I'm impressed, too, especially when our aggressively food-obsessed boy chooses to play with his iPad rather than eat. I don't usually dabble in miracle-speak, but I may erect a tiny altar to Steve Jobs in the corner of our living room."

Read more of Shannon's article here: http://www.blogher.com/ipad-nearmiracle-my-son-autism Below is a clip of Leo using his iPad :) Go Leo!!

Wonders of the iPad with Danny!

2010-06-22T11:12:00.000-07:00

We sometimes don’t realize the little things we take for granted. Like having a say, a voice, vast vocabulary, and the opportunity to make choices. All qualities that Danny unfortunately does not possess. With a limited vocabulary and conversation capabilities that extend only as far as answering yes and no questions, communication as you can imagine is extremely difficult. Sure, Danny has had experience with the chunky oversized temperamental Dynavox Mt4 augmentative communication device, but nothing compares to the world of opportunity the iPad offers at the mere touch of a screen, literally.

With augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) apps such as TaptoTalk, Danny’s communication flourishes. Similar to the Dynavox, TaptoTalk allows family members to set up folders with both commands and “wants” essentially, by using pictures accompanied by voice dictations of the word. For example, if Danny is hungry and wants to go to his favorite diner “Taby’s” for a plate of fries, we no longer have to read tell tale signs of hunger on his face and assume its french fry depravation! He can simply press tabs that say “I am Hungry” with a picture of him eating, and then move along to “I want to go to Taby’s,” with a picture of the restaurant. Simple, efficient, and miraculous. Now Danny not only has a voice, but a choice. And we don’t have to drag out that bulky Dynavox and pray there is an outlet close by.

Aside from the AAC TaptoTalk, which undoubtedly is the most useful and important application the iPad can offer Danny, there are other benefits to this wonder pad. As you may or may not know, many Autistic children have a need to “stim” or focus on some act, usually physical, and repeat it multiple times to establish balance, clarity, and comfort. Using games on the iPad, such as memory, Danny’s “stims” have become a lot more productive and mind engaging. We are anxious to try out other educational applications like First Words and iWrite Words to see if they have a similar effect.

All these benefits prevail, on top of the classic functions equip with most iProducts, including the ability to watch movies and listen to music. These two past times are Danny’s favorites. The large screen allows Danny to enjoy his favorite movies, like “The Little Giants” and “Richie Rich” comfortably while in transit. And when he craves sensory stimulation to calm his nerves and subdue his tics, he has his entire music library at his fingertips. We are extremely proud of Danny’s accomplishments with the iPad and simultaneously impressed by his ability to pick up the functionality so quickly.

Most importantly it has given us, his family, a chance to communicate easily, often, and efficiently with our favorite little guy. There is nothing more valuable in this world to us than this. The iPad and accompanying applications have brought us miles closer to Danny, and for that we are entirely grateful and even more so, excited for the future.

-This article was written directly by Danny's sister Kristina.

Some Fun News In The World Of Autism!

2010-06-15T12:05:00.000-07:00

We found a few fun things to share with you in the world of Autism! Enjoy!

The Albany Chapter of the Autism Society of America is sponsoring an Autism Friendly Film Showing at Colonie Center’s Regal Cinema. They will be showing Pixars "Toy Story 3". The special showing will take place Saturday June 26, 2010 starting at 9:30 a.m. Admission will be $7.50 for ages 12 -59, $7 for children 11 and under and senior citizens ages 60 and over. Tickets can be purchased at the door.

Autism friendly films allow for kids to move around during the film, have the sound lowered and the lights are left on so that children on the autism spectrum are more comfortable. The Albany Chapter ASA is extremely grateful to Mark LeChevet, general manager, for the opportunity to partner with Colonie Center’s Regal Cinema to make this event happen. They have been extremely helpful and accommodating in ensuring the needs of kids with autism are met.

Go here to find a location playing near you: http://www.autism-society.org/site/PageServer?pagename=sensoryfilms

If you are on facebook you can find details here: http://www.facebook.com/#!/event.php?eid=130038800347407&ref=mf

Jet Li says he hopes that his new movie about autism offers a refreshing alternative to the historical and kung fu epics that dominate the Chinese industry.

The veteran action star plays an aquarium worker who cares for his autistic son in the low-budget "Ocean Heaven" — his first Chinese-language production since the 2007 release of "The Warlords."

"Nowadays everyone is making blockbusters. Making a 7 million Chinese yuan ($1 million) movie requires a lot of sincerity," Li told reporters in Hong Kong. "This movie is about sincerity. It shows that in this day and age that filmmakers are willing to do something for society."

The actor promoted the movie by visiting the dolphins at Hong Kong's Ocean Park with a small group of mentally handicapped and autistic adults.

"I hope everyone can examine what is the most important relationship in life — the relationship between parent and child," he said.

A noticeably thinner Li said he lost 18 pounds (8 kilograms) from a thyroid condition.

Like Jackie Chan, a fellow kung fu star who crossed over to Hollywood from the Hong Kong movie industry, Li also now juggles careers in Chinese and American films.

His recent Hollywood releases include "The Forbidden Kingdom," which costarred Chan, "The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor" and "The Expendables."

Information from: http://abcnews.go.com/Entertainment/wireStory?id=10844018

The Mansion Ride For Autism

2010-06-10T12:27:00.000-07:00

The Mansion Ride For Autism

9th Annual Ride, Sunday June 13th 2010

A Cycling Event on Nassau County's Gold Coast

Choose 16, 40 or 62 miles

The Mansion Ride for Autism celebrates it's 9th annual event on Sunday June 13, 2010. Just $50 to ride.

Since the all-volunteer Mansion Ride began in 2002, it has served as a platform to unite hundreds of riders.

Collectively, we have raised AUTISM awareness and over $375,000 (net).

100% of those funds are donated to support the education of Children with Autism.

Learn more are visit their website here: http://www.mansionrideforautism.com

Contact The Mansion Ride For Autism here: http://www.mansionrideforautism.com/contact.html

New Study! New Statistic! and the Benefits of Early Intervention!

2010-06-08T09:56:00.000-07:00

The new statistic on those being diagnosed with Autism is now 1 in 110 children and 1 in 70 boys. Although more children are being diagnosed with autism, early intervention can help them live productive lives. Speaking of early intervention, in recent news researchers in London have found a possible way to detect autism in very young children by way of urine test. Article below and can also be viewed here: http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2010/06/100603091641.htm

Autism Finding Could Lead to Simple Urine Test for the Condition

ScienceDaily (June 5, 2010) — Children with autism have a different chemical fingerprint in their urine than non-autistic children, according to new research published tomorrow in the print edition of the Journal of Proteome Research.

The researchers behind the study, from Imperial College London and the University of South Australia, suggest that their findings could ultimately lead to a simple urine test to determine whether or not a young child has autism.
Autism affects an estimated one in every 100 people in the UK. People with autism have a range of different symptoms, but they commonly experience problems with communication and social skills, such as understanding other people's emotions and making conversation and eye contact.
People with autism are also known to suffer from gastrointestinal disorders and they have a different makeup of bacteria in their guts from non-autistic people.
Today's research shows that it is possible to distinguish between autistic and non-autistic children by looking at the by-products of gut bacteria and the body's metabolic processes in the children's urine. The exact biological significance of gastrointestinal disorders in the development of autism is unknown.
The distinctive urinary metabolic fingerprint for autism identified in today's study could form the basis of a non-invasive test that might help diagnose autism earlier. This would enable autistic children to receive assistance, such as advanced behavioural therapy, earlier in their development than is currently possible.
At present, children are assessed for autism through a lengthy process involving a range of tests that explore the child's social interaction, communication and imaginative skills.
Early intervention can greatly improve the progress of children with autism but it is currently difficult to establish a firm diagnosis when children are under 18 months of age, although it is likely that changes may occur much earlier than this.
The researchers suggest that their new understanding of the makeup of bacteria in autistic children's guts could also help scientists to develop treatments to tackle autistic people's gastrointestinal problems.
Professor Jeremy Nicholson, the corresponding author of the study, who is the Head of the Department of Surgery and Cancer at Imperial College London, said: "Autism is a condition that affects a person's social skills, so at first it might seem strange that there's a relationship between autism and what's happening in someone's gut. However, your metabolism and the makeup of your gut bacteria reflect all sorts of things, including your lifestyle and your genes. Autism affects many different parts of a person's system and our study shows that you can see how it disrupts their system by looking at their metabolism and their gut bacteria.
"We hope our findings might be the first step towards creating a simple urine test to diagnose autism at a really young age, although this is a long way off -- such a test could take many years to develop and we're just beginning to explore the possibilities. We know that giving therapy to children with autism when they are very young can make a huge difference to their progress. A urine test might enable professionals to quickly identify children with autism and help them early on," he added.
The researchers are now keen to investigate whether metabolic differences in people with autism are related to the causes of the condition or are a consequence of its progression.
The researchers reached their conclusions by using H NMR Spectroscopy to analyse the urine of three groups of children aged between 3 and 9: 39 children who had previously been diagnosed with autism, 28 non-autistic siblings of children with autism, and 34 children who did not have autism who did not have an autistic sibling.
They found that each of the three groups had a distinct chemical fingerprint. Non-autistic children with autistic siblings had a different chemical fingerprint than those without any autistic siblings, and autistic children had a different chemical fingerprint than the other two groups.

Autism and Theatre, A Great Match!

2010-06-04T10:19:00.000-07:00

We are excited to tell our followers that the inspiration for "Danny's Wish", Danny himself is going to be in an upcoming play this weekend! Go Danny!!

We thought this would be the perfect time to highlight an amazing theatre called "International Association of Theatre for Autism".

International Association of Theatre for Autism (IATA)

"An online network uniting professionals and parents interested

in applying theatre techniques to help individuals with autism."

IATA was created to unite professionals and parents interested in using theatre to help individuals with autism. IATA is the first network to bring people from around the world together to strengthen theatre-autism work. The collaborative work of network members will be used to develop best practices, create new techniques, spread the word about theatre interventions for individuals with autism, generate data to support claims of effectiveness, and ultimately increase the quality of life for individuals with autism.

Theatre Aspects
Body Awareness

Emotional Expression

Emotional Recognition

Empathy

Group Dynamics

ASD/AS deficits

*marked impairments in the use of multiple nonverbal behaviors such as eye-to-eye gaze, facial expression, body posture, and gestures to regulate social interaction

*a lack of spontaneous seeking to share enjoyment, interest or achievements with other people

*lack of social or emotional reciprocity

*failure to develop peer relationships appropriate to developmental level

Visit their website for more info about the "International Association of Theatre for Autism"

http://www.autismtheatre.org

A Regular Guy: Growing Up With Autism

2010-05-25T10:03:00.000-07:00

“I hear autistic people are brilliant”. “Is your son like Rain Man?” These are comments I hear when people learn that my eldest son is autistic. A Regular Guy: Growing Up With Autism is a memoir about life with an autistic son, Matthew, written from a mother’s perspective. It answers the many questions that people have about autism through the story of Matthew’s life, from the tender years of diagnosis to young adulthood. A Regular Guy illustrates the many ways in which family, friends and strangers are touched by Matthew’s profound desire to be a regular guy, and how his brutal honesty and social awkwardness bring out the best and worst in people in touching and humorous ways. In turn, A Regular Guy leads readers to love and accept Matthew, quirks and all, and inspires them to understand and tolerate the differences in others.

About Laura

Laura Shumaker is the author of A Regular Guy: Growing Up With Autism and is a City Bright for the San Francisco Chronicle. She has contributed to several anthologies, including Voices of Autism, A Cup of Comfort for Parents of Children with Special Needs, Writin’ on Empty, and the forthcoming Gravity Pulls You In. She is a regular contributor to NPR Perspectives and a columnist for 5 Minutes for Special Needs. Laura’s essays have appeared in the San Francisco Chronicle, the Contra Costa Times, Literary Mama, the East Bay Monthly, The Autism Advocate and on CNN.COM.

Laura speaks regularly to schools, book and disability groups.

She lives in Lafayette, California with her husband Peter and her three sons.

Source of this article

Laura Shumaker describes the book:

"A Regular Guy: Growing Up With Autism is a memoir about life with my autistic son, Matthew. It answers the many questions that people have about autism through the story of Matthew’s life-and our family’s life- spanning from babyhood to young adulthood. The story tells the many ways in which family, friends and strangers are touched by Matthew’s desperate desire to be a regular guy, and how his brutal honesty and social awkwardness bring out the best and worst in people in touching and humorous ways. Those who’ve read the book have told me that the book inspired them to understand and tolerate the differences in others."

Autistic Basketball Phenom Inspires Cornell Team

2010-05-18T10:03:00.000-07:00

Our last blog post was about teaching you Autistic child basketball. Soon after we saw a very inspiring story of Jason “J-Mac” McElwain. Below is an article from The Autism News.

‘J-Mac’ Secret Weapon of Cornell Basketball Team During NCAA Tournament

By David Muir and Christine Brozyna

If Cornell is this year’s Cinderella story at the NCAA tournament, than Jason “J-Mac” McElwain certainly would be its prince.

J-Mac, who has autism, first captured the heart of the nation four years ago when, in the last game of his high school basketball team’s season, he was given his first chance to play. In just four minutes, he scored six three-point shots and finished with 20 points. He even tied the school record.

One of J-Mac’s admirers is Cornell basketball coach Steve Donahue, whose own son, Matt, has autism. Donahue reached out to J-Mac after that electrifying high school basketball game and the two have stayed in touch ever since.

“It was one of the greatest inspirational stories I had ever heard,” Donahue said. “Jason was having so much fun and enjoying the experience. It made me really happy that one day my son could have kind of experience as well in his high school.”

This year, J-Mac, now 21-years-old, joined Donahue at the NCAA tournament selection. In addition, he’s been calling and texting Donahue with advice for the team — including how to beat top NCAA teams Temple University and University of Wisconsin.

“Jason’s advice is unbelievable. The kid is on the money,” Donahue said. “What better way to motivate our guys then to have Jason come in and talk to them. He’s got a lot of great ideas and always ends them with an inspirational thought. I love hearing from him.”

Still, J-Mac, who is not a student at Cornell, is humble about his involvement with the team.

“I’m not taking anything away from the team,” J-Mac told ABC News.

But it was J-Mac’s text in the final minutes of the Wisconsin game that has had the most impact. It read, “If you don’t dream to become a champion, you won’t become a champion.”

Moments later, Cornell won again.

As J-Mac’s story continues to unfold, a new chapter is developing for the inspiring young man. He’s decided to turn his attention to the sidelines, and in addition to giving advice to the Cornell basketball team, he volunteers as a junior varsity assistant coach for his alma mater — Greece Athena High School in New York state. Next year, he’ll help with the varsity team.

He also works a job in the Greece, N.Y., area.

In the meantime, J-Mac continues to dole out advice to the Cornell team.

“I’ve been a part of many comebacks,” he said. “I’ve been a part of teams that have come back against us. I told them you have to finish the game.”

Teaching Your Autistic Child Basketball

2010-05-11T11:45:00.000-07:00

Basketball is a great sport for kids to play. It is safer, requires less physical prowess and is less complex than many other sports. It is true that it requires some depth perception and height is a key benefit, but it is a great choice at early ages, and giving your child the experience of playing a sport will be a memory they keep forever.

It is very common for autistic children to have little interest in sports related activities, for example, basketball. When they are very young, they often start out with some interest, and will join a basketball team. After some time, the child may loose interest in venturing out on to the basketball court, or eventually may not want to attend practices or games at all.

This can be very frustrating to parents, especially fathers or grandfathers that have fond memories of playing basketball and the life-long friendships they made being part of a team.

It is still possible for many autistic children, especially aspergers type, to have an interest and play basketball. What is important is that you do not have expectations that your child is going to follow of the traditional rules and expectations that most children do when joining a basketball team and learning the game.

In fact, you may have to consider strictly recreational non-team style play. If your child is not able to follow and focus on the instructions, and is not responding well to the coach or other players, it may be time to consider going a different route. It is much more important that your child is happy and feels accepted, especially by the parents than you being happy that your child is part of a basketball team.

If you find that the team style basketball play is not working, consider having a regular play at home, or at a local park. Be sure to give your child some time away from the sport before doing this as it may not be received well.

When your child starts to show some interest, be sure to keep things free-form. Do not worry about all the rules, skills, techniques and such. It is important to simply have the child enjoy the time spent with you, which happens to also be time spent holding and hopefully throwing a basketball.

You might simply try passing the ball back and fourth. Possibly bouncing the ball off a wall. Make some fun games such as try to dribble the ball three times in a row - if you succeed, the parent has to jump around like a silly frog!

Later you can slowly add little modifications such as a tip on how to pass the ball, or where to aim when throwing the ball for a layup. Again, take it slowly, and always make it positive. If you add criticism, or lots of rules, it is very likely your autistic child will loose interest quickly, and in fact may resent the sport completely.

HERE is the source for this article

Understanding and Encouraging a Child With Autism

2010-05-04T09:45:00.000-07:00

Social success, for your child with autism, is comprised of the following elements:

• Reacting to others

• Knowing and choosing when to apply specific social skills

• Choosing what words to say

All this social success depends on our own ability to "read a situation." Neurotypical persons naturally interpret what is going on in other's faces, gestures, and adjust their own behavior accordingly. It's like ants who communicate with each other by touching antennae. The challenging part for children on the autism spectrum is that it's as if they are missing their social antennae.

Social antennae are akin to the term "social inferencing," which is comprised of the following components:

1. The meaning of spoken words.

2. How a person's body language contributes to the overall meaning.

3. How a person's facial expression contributes to the overall meaning.

4. How a person's eye contact contributes to the overall meaning.

5. The person's overall intent or motive.

6. How the social context and social environment helps us better interpret all of the above.

Children, teens, and adults on the autism spectrum often have very strong academic smarts, but they need help in bridging the often confusing social divide. The following is an exercise taken from Michelle Garcia Winner's book, Thinking About You Thinking About Me:

This exercise can be used in a group, working with siblings, or working 1:1 with the child as a parent, teacher, or therapist.

Pretend that you are forming a detective agency. Teach the child (or children) about what detectives do: first they must find the clues, and then they must make a smart guess to try to solve the problem.

Here are some activities that can be part of forming the detective agency:

1) Pretend to be a detective. Dress in make-believe detective hats and parents' suit jackets.

2) Find different types of clues: concrete and absract

a) Concrete clues:

1. Make a series of written clues, each leading to the next clue, so that they can ultimately find a hidden object. This is essentially like a treasure hunt. For example, in a summer camp, the kids' snacks were hidden, and they were given clues to find their own snack. This lays the groundwork for small guesses, and for making inferences.

2. Children can make their own clues. This gives the child or children experiencing in being able to think about what information the other person who is searching will need in order to find the hidden 'treasure.' If a parent is present in the therapy session, the parent or therapist can work with the child to write the clue in a way that is not going to be too hard or too easy.

3. There are books in the library that you may be able to check out in order to help children research the more abstract clues in detective work. Spy's Guide Book, (Sims and King, 2002) and The Detective's Handbook (Civardi, Hindley, and Wilkes, 1979) can be utilized to help kids understand how to be detectives, and how to look for more subtle clues. Topics such as wearing disguises, changing your walk, and hidden messages, all of which provide chances to teach children about body language, facial expression, toney of voice, and paying attention to what is going on around you.

3) Use DVD's. You can use DVD's, commercials, and TV shows to make 'smart guesses' about what will happen next. The child you are working with can use environmental or non-verbal cues to make guesses about what will happen based on the information already provided. Discuss how the information helped them make a guess.

4) Write clues and messages in different ways; use secret codes to reframe information. This will help the child develop the cognitive flexibility to see that all information is not presented exactly as it is to be understood. There is a book, Secret Codes (O'Brien and Riddell, 1997), that can be helpful in helping you come up with these codes.

The idea of the detective games is that it helps develop a vocabulary and environment that makes inferencing and smart guessing fun activities. Imagine, taking something that a child is not naturally good at, and making it fun to learn. Thank you, Ms. Michelle Garcia Winner, for these wonderful ideas!

Article Source: http://ezinearticles.com/?Understanding-and-Encouraging-a-Child-With-Autism&id=4147019

The Story Behind "Danny's Wish"

2010-04-27T09:18:00.000-07:00

Ever wonder what the story was behind "Danny's Wish"? If so, then read below and your question will be answered :)

Danny is a fun loving energetic 12-year-old boy, who likes to play basketball, enjoys watching hockey games, loves the movie Shrek, and will eat ketchup with just about anything! This little Boyscout also enjoys swimming, painting, going to concerts and will never pass up an opportunity to play catch with you.

Danny is also Autistic.

Like many other children, Danny struggles with Autism, a developmental disability that too often results in a lifetime of impaired thinking, feeling and social functioning. It typically affects a person's ability to communicate, form relationships with others and respond appropriately to the external world. People with the condition often exhibit repetitive behavior or narrow, obsessive interests. Other characteristics of Autism include problems with verbal and nonverbal communication and social interaction. It is considered a “spectrum disorder” because the characteristics and symptoms of the disorder are so very unique to each case.

Danny has a very unique characteristic all his own, and that is his ability to light up a room with his amazing smile. Despite his disability, he is eager and excited to experience the world in its entirety.

If Danny could have one wish, his wish would be for other children and people affected by Autism to experience, enjoy and love life just as much as he does. That is why we’ve created Danny’s Wish, to help provide life enhancing resources and experiences for kids and families that deal with Autism and Autism related spectrum disorders.

Though dealing with Autism is a daily struggle that imposes many obstacles, it has never restricted Danny from trying to live life to his fullest. Danny shows us that we can look past the disability, and on to a bright future full of great opportunities and possibilities.

Help us make Danny’s Wish come true!

It’s all about giving.

And now a message from the president of "Danny's Wish", Danny's Father, Dino Sgueulia:

"Today, 1 in 150 children are diagnosed with Autism, making it more common than Pediatric Cancer, Juvenile Diabetes, Leukemia, Muscular Dystrophy and Pediatric AIDS combined. It occurs across all racial, ethnic, and social groups and is four times more likely to strike boys than girls. Scientists aren’t certain what causes Autism, but it’s likely that both genetics and environment play a role.

Danny’s Wish was created in honor of my son Danny, a fun loving boy with Autism. He struggles every day to lead a normal life and even communicate. As a parent, I face the daily frustration and pain which comes from coping with a child with this affliction. There is never a day that I don’t pray for a cure for Autism and the related spectrum disorders. My biggest wish is to hear my son tell me that he loves me – that will be worth more than anything in the world to me.

Autism has become the most serious and fastest growing developmental disability in the United States, but receives less than 5% of the total research funding of less prevalent childhood diseases. The rate of diagnosis is growing everyday – funding and research need to catch up.

Let’s spread the word about Autism."

If you want to learn more about "Danny's Wish" please check out our website http://www.dannyswish.org

Famous/Successful People Who Have Autism

2010-04-20T08:28:00.000-07:00

As we are getting to the end of "Autism Awareness Month" we thought it may be fun to visit a few some famous and successful people who have been diagnosed on the Austism Spectrum.

Daryl Hannah

American actress best known for her roles in Splash, Blade Runner and Kill Bill was diagnosed as a child as being 'borderline autistic', later to be diagnosed with Asperger's Syndrome."

Her Awards Include:
* Best Short - The Berlin Film Festival "The Last Supper", 1994
* Best Fight - MTV Movie Awards Kill Bill Vol.2, 2005
* Best Supporting Actress - Saturn Award Kill Bill Vol. 2, 2004
* Best Actress - Saturn Award Splash, 1984
* Influencer Of The Year Award - National Biodiesel Board, 2004
* Ongoing Commitment Award - Environmental Media Award, 2004
* Environmental Activism - Water Quality Awards, 2006
* Environmental Preservation - Artivist Awards, 2006

Satoshi Tajiri

Japanese video game designer best known as the creator of Pokémon, and the founder of Game Freak
Tajiri has been named a video gaming innovator, and has made numerous lists of the top, best, or most influential video game developers. He has worked on numerous other games, including Pulseman. Tajiri has also been diagnosed with Asperger syndrome.

Jonathan Lerman

American autistic savant outsider artist. Jonathan Lerman began to lapse into long silences at the age of two, and the next year he was diagnosed with autism.

Lerman's artistic bent appeared at the age of 10 in the form of charcoal-drawn faces—both people he knows and those he imagines. In 1999 he had his own solo exhibition at the KS Art gallery in New York City.

Lerman has had personal exhibitions, and has also exhibited his work alongside others.

Lerman was also on the MTV television show True Life in the episode "True Life: I Have Autism"

Jonathan Lerman's remarkable artistic ability emerged quite unexpectedly at age 10. Already now, at age 14, Jonathan has had several art shows of his own, and a New York Times article on January 16, 2002 has given his work national visibility.

Just released is a very insightful book about Jonathan Lerman and his extraordinary art.

Heather Kuzmich

Indiana is an art student and American fashion model. She is best known for being a contestant of America's Next Top Model, Cycle 9, where she was the fourth runner-up of the show. During the show, it was revealed that Kuzmich has Asperger syndrome and ADHD.

Heather has signed to the women's division of Elite Model Management in Chicago. Heather also did a photoshoot for the July 2008 issue of Wedding Essentials which was featured on MTV's Made, where a young boy with Asperger followed her on set. Heather has modeled for the clothing company "Blue Eyed Girl". She has also appeared on the cover and inside of Spectrum Magazine, a magazine for families and individuals who have autism.

Kuzmich received great press attention due to her Asperger syndrome, including talk show appearances (such as being interviewed on Good Morning America and an article in The New York Times). She plans to continue modeling, while continuing her education at the Illinois Institute of Art located in Chicago. Kuzmich has appeared in People magazine twice, once in October 2007 and the second time in December 2007. She was recently one of the nine girls featured in America's Next Top Model: Exposed on the CW, during the filming of which she became close friend with Jael Strauss. She has also appeared twice on The Tyra Banks Show, once in a "Where are they now?" episode and for the Fiercee awards. She plans on moving to New York soon to pursue modeling.

Tim Page

A writer, editor, music critic, producer and professor. He was a Pulitzer Prize-winning music critic for the Washington Post and also played an essential role in the revival of American author Dawn Powell.

In August 2007 Page revealed in The New Yorker that he had been diagnosed with Asperger syndrome. His book-length memoir of his experience with the condition, Parallel Play: Growing Up With Undiagnosed Asperger's, was published by Doubleday in September 2009.

10 Great Books On Autism For All Ages

2010-04-12T12:53:00.000-07:00

We are about half way through "Autism Awareness Month" and we thought it would be a fun idea to list a few great books about autism for you to share with friends, family and educators.

Here are 10 books we picked out for you to browse. There are books below for all ages, have fun, get reading and become aware!

1001 Great Ideas for Teaching and Raising Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders
For Adults
Check It Out Here
Read the Reviews Here

Ten Things Every Child with Autism Wishes You Knew
For Adults
Check It Out Here
Read the Reviews Here

The Autism Acceptance Book: Being a Friend to Someone With Autism
Ages 9-12
Check It Out Here
Read the Reviews Here

A Is for Autism F Is for Friend: A Kid's Book for Making Friends with a Child Who Has Autism
Ages 9-12
Check It Out Here
Read the Reviews Here

Everybody Is Different: A Book for Young People Who Have Brothers or Sisters With Autism
Ages 9-12
Check It Out Here
Read The Reviews Here

Different Like Me: My Book of Autism Heroes
Ages 9-12
Check It Out Here
Read The Reviews Here

Since We're Friends: An Autism Picture Book
Ages 4-8
Check It Out Here
Read the Reviews Here

All About My Brother
Ages 4-8
Check It Out Here
Read the Reviews Here

I Am Utterly Unique: Celebrating the Strengths of Children with Asperger Syndrome and High-Functioning Autism
Ages 4-8
Check It Out Here
Read The Reviews Here

My Friend with Autism: A Coloring Book for Peers and Siblings
Ages 4-8
Check It Out Here
Read The Reviews Here

What You Can Do to Participate in "Autism Awareness Month"

2010-04-06T10:01:00.000-07:00

April is “Autism Awareness Month” and many are out there every day, showing their support. I am sure you want to as well, but may not know how or what to do. Here are a few suggestions:

Put on the Puzzle!

The Autism Awareness Puzzle Ribbon is the most recognized symbol of the autism community in the world. Autism prevalence is now one in every 110 children in America – that’s 13 million families and growing who live with autism today. Show your support for people with autism by wearing the Autism Awareness Puzzle Ribbon this month – as a pin on your shirt, a magnet on your car, a badge on your blog, or even your Facebook profile picture – and educate folks on the potential of people with autism! For suggestions and resources, visit www.autism-society.org/ribbon.

Spread the word

Helping the autism community can be as easy as updating your Facebook or Twitter status! Check out our website: http://www.dannyswish.org, read our story and make a donation. Our mission is to help provide life enhancing resources and experiences for kids and families that deal with Autism and Autism related spectrum disorders.

Connect with your neighborhood

Check out the local events going on in your community. Reach out to someone you know who’s life is effected by Autism and plan an activity together. See if anything is going on at your local school district, and just be involved in those activities.

Watch a movie

Did you know that something that seems as simple as going to the movies is not an option for many families affected by autism? The Autism Society is working with AMC entertainment to bring special-needs families “Sensory Friendly Films” every month. The special showing of How to Train Your Dragon is coming to a theatre near you on April 10. Or, you could see a movie about autism itself – the Autism Society is partnering with the Independent Television Service (ITVS) to support 70 community screenings of the new movie The Horse Boy, based on the memoir of the same name. In the film, Rupert Isaacson shares the inspiring story of how he and his wife learned to think of their son’s autism as an adventure rather than a curse, a beginning rather than an end. Find participating locations for both events at:

- Sensory Friendly Films: www.autism-society.org/sensoryfilms

- The Horse Boy: http://www.pbs.org/independentlens/horse-boy/

April Is Autism Awareness Month!

2010-03-30T10:12:00.001-07:00

Spread the word. Helping the autism community can be as easy as updating your Facebook or Twitter status! On April 1, the Autism Society is asking supporters to change their status on Facebook and/or Twitter to “Autism affects 1 in 110.

If you have facebook there is an "Event" created to wear blue on April 2, 2010 to support Autism Awareness , here is the link:

Wearing Blue for World Autism Awareness Day!!! April 2, 2010

Imagine on Friday April 2 being a part of something so powerful! Going through your day and seeing all the people in blue who care about someone affected by autism. Imagine when our wonderful children see all that blue is for them!!

Asking all Facebook Friends to wear Blue on Friday April 2!! So wherever you are in the world, as you go about your day....help raise Autism Awareness....Mark Your Calendar!!!!

**This in not something you have to physically attend. By "Attending" you are showing your support for Autism Awareness. Just wear your BLUE on that day and that's all you do! This is actually one event that is very easy to attend!! Thank You for your support and thank you for caring about the very special kids,adults and families affected by autism :)

Here is a song called "I'm In Here - The Anthem For Autism

"It's a song from a personal place. I'm in Here will touch people's hearts and help raise funds and awareness for autism. It's attracting attention from listeners around the world.

The song is sung from the point of view of a child with autism communicating to a loved one.

'I'm in here when the joy turns to crying, see the world through my eyes for just a moment in time," say the lyrics to I'm in Here. "I'm in here, oh don't you know I'm trying to find the way to show you who I am.'"

Video also posted on You Tube

Some Fun Activities For Autistic Children

2010-03-23T10:00:00.000-07:00

Autistic children need challenging, yet fun, activities that they can participate in on a daily basis.

Should they be expected to participate in all of the activities that other children engage in?

Of course not,

but there are numerous activities for autistic children to enjoy. Before you expect your autistic child or student to jump right in to the latest activity, consider the following:

Activity Considerations

Participants-Who else is participating in this activity? Is it the whole class, one or two students, or is this an individual activity? If you expect several students to perform the activity together, choose the group members wisely. Look for children that will be especially helpful to the autistic child. Be sure and monitor all of the participants, and be on the lookout for children who might try to ridicule the child with autism.

Activity level-What type of activity will the child be participating in? Will the child need to have good coordination skills? Will it put him at a continuous disadvantage next to the other children? Does it require skills that he doesn't have or hasn't had the opportunity or time to learn?

Potential problems-Are there any potential problems that might occur with the activity? For example, will the noise level be increased? Excessive noise can often be troublesome for children with autism. While the activity might be organized, will the intensity of it be a disturbance for the child, causing him a high level of stress? Is physical contact a necessary factor of the game? If so, this might also present a problem as some autistic people tend to shy away from or become extremely disturbed by prolonged physical contact.

***Activities for autistic children should be fun and engaging, but if they become a source of frustration instead, the benefits of the action may be lost.

Selecting Activities for Autistic Children

Consider an autistic child's capabilities, interests, and aptitude as you search for appropriate activities for him or her to enjoy.

Sensory activities-Games that include the senses are often enjoyed by these children. For example, play the game "I Spy" with your children. Describe the object that you are looking at, and see if the children can find and name that object from your description.

Songs and poems-Children often like the sing-song way in which a poem sounds, and they may also enjoy the repetition of certain songs. Choose several songs and/or poems to teach them, and use these every day. You can also incorporate some physical activities with these songs by jumping, skipping, hopping, etc. to the beat of the words.

Sports-Discovering a child's love of a certain sport can open another world up to him. In many cases, close physical sports like football are difficult for autistic children to handle, but more individualized sports like golf, baseball, or even fishing may become a favorite hobby.

Art-Autistic children often find their niche in some form of the arts. This may be demonstrated through acting, drawing, painting, sketching, singing, and playing a musical instrument. Encourage this love as often as possible.

***Finally, realize that an autistic child may not know exactly what his interests and favorite activities might be, so it is up to you to introduce him to several areas of interest. Once he discovers a new hobby, he probably won't be shy about letting you know what he wants to do! Encourage him as much as possible, and let him participate with others when possible. This is an excellent way to not only encourage him to work on a particular skill or activity but to also hone his social skills as well.

All Information for this post came from: http://autism.lovetoknow.com/Activities_for_Autistic_Children This is a great source, bookmark it! :)

Autism On A Spectrum

2010-03-18T07:08:00.000-07:00

What is an autism spectrum disorder?

Different people with autism can have very different symptoms. Health care providers think of autism as a “spectrum” disorder, a group of disorders with similar features. One person may have mild symptoms, while another may have serious symptoms. But they both have an autism spectrum disorder.

When individuals refer to the autism spectrum, they are referring to one of these five pervasive developmental disorders.

Autistic Disorder

Autistic disorder, sometimes called childhood autism or classic autism, is what most people think of when hearing the word autism. To receive a diagnosis of autistic disorder, symptoms must be present before the age of three years. Children usually have significant speech and language delays (if they are speaking at all), noticeable social deficits, apparent repetitive actions, and aren’t always well-connected with the world around them.

Childhood Disintegrative Disorder

Childhood disintegrative disorder is rare; it is marked by children who are on a typical developmental path for the first three years of life and then begin to experience regression. The level of regression varies between children but is usually in the significant range. The behaviors associated with childhood disintegrative disorder are similar to those of a person with autism. Childhood disintegrative disorder is more common among boys than girls.

Asperger’s Disorder

Unlike autistic disorder, Asperger’s disorder is usually diagnosed in older children. It is not uncommon to have a child diagnosed as a teenager. People with Asperger’s disorder have a different type of language impairment. They may have an expansive vocabulary but have difficulties with social language and social reciprocity. Individuals with Asperger’s disorder also commonly have rigid thought and behavior and an unusually intense focus on a narrow range of interests. Children with Asperger’s disorder are often called “little professors” due to their pedantic use of speech and language.

Pervasive Developmental Disorder Not Otherwise Specified (PDD-NOS)

PDD-NOS can be a confusing diagnostic term. Individuals who meet some of the criteria for autism or Asperger’s disorder, but not all, may be diagnosed with PDD-NOS. An example would be an individual with a language delay and social impairments but lacks stereotypical and repetitive behaviors. In this case, he would not meet the criteria for an autistic disorder diagnosis but definitely falls under the umbrella of pervasive developmental disorders.

Rett’s Disorder

Almost exclusively found in females, Rett’s disorder is similar to childhood disintegrative disorder in that it is preceded by apparently normal development. However, children with Rett’s disorder begin to experience regression much earlier; usually the regression begins around six months of age. Rett’s disorder is quite rare affecting fewer than four in 10,000.

It is important to understand that pervasive developmental disorders fall on a true spectrum. One person with a diagnosis of autistic disorder can present quite differently than another with the same diagnosis.

Sources: http://autism-types.suite101.com/article.cfm/exploring_the_autism_spectrum, http://www.nichd.nih.gov/health/topics/asd.cfm

Children's Mental Health Facts Children and Adolescents with Autism

2010-03-09T11:45:00.000-08:00

Below is an excellent article answering some FAQ on Autism. For more info listed in this article go here.

Children's Mental Health Facts
Children and Adolescents with Autism

What is autism?

Autism, also called autistic disorder, appears in early childhood, usually before age 3 (National Institutes of Health, 2001). Autism prevents children and adolescents from interacting normally with other people and affects almost every aspect of their social and psychological development.

What are the signs of autism?

Autism has a wide variety of characteristics ranging in intensity from mild to severe. One child with autism does not behave like another child with the same diagnosis. Children and adolescents with autism typically:

Have difficulty communicating with others.
Exhibit repetitious behaviors, such as rocking back and forth, head banging, or touching or twirling objects.
Have a limited range of interests and activities.
May become upset by a small change in their environment or daily routine.
In addition to these characteristics, some children with autism experience hypersensitivity to hearing, touch, smell, or taste. Symptoms of autism can be seen in early infancy, but the condition also may appear after months of normal development. In most cases, however, it is not possible to identify a specific event that triggers the disorder.

How common is autism?

Studies estimate that as many as 12 in every 10,000 children have autism or a related condition (U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 1999). Autism is three times more common in boys than in girls (National Institutes of Health, 2001).

What causes autism?

Researchers are unsure about what causes autism. Several studies suggest that autism might be caused by a combination of biological or environmental factors, or both, including viral exposure before birth, a problem with the immune system, or genetics. Many recently published scientific investigations have examined the possible connection between autism and the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine. At this time, though, the available data do not appear to support a causal link.

Studies of families and twins suggest a genetic basis for the disorder. It is important for scientists to find the genes responsible for autism, if any, because this knowledge would give physicians new tools to diagnose the disorder and help scientists develop gene-based therapies.

Some studies have found that the brains of people with autism may function differently from those that are considered "normal." Research suggests that an abnormal slowing down of brain development before birth may cause autism. Studies also are looking at how autism-related problems in brain development may affect behavior later in childhood. For example, some researchers are investigating the ways in which infants with autism process information and how the disorder may lead to poor development of social skills, knowledge, and awareness.

Chemicals in the brain also may play a role in autism. As a normal brain develops, the level of serotonin, a chemical found in the brain, declines. In some children with autism, however, serotonin levels do not decline. Researchers are investigating whether this happens only to children with autism or whether other factors are involved.

What help is available for families?

Since brain development can be influenced during early childhood, the treatment of autism has a greater chance of success when initiated as early as possible. In addition, when children with autism are treated early, the cost of long-term care may be reduced. Services and treatments that may benefit children and adolescents with autism and their families include:

Training in communication, social, learning, and self-help skills.
Programs in which other children help to teach children with autism.
Parent training.
Medications to reduce symptoms related to self-injury, seizures, digestive difficulties, and attention problems.
When services are started soon after a child is diagnosed with autism, the child's language, social, and academic skills and abilities may be greatly improved. On the other hand, some children and adolescents do not respond well to treatment or may experience negative side effects from autism medications. Recent data suggest that some of the newer antipsychotic drugs may have fewer side effects than conventional drugs, but more studies are needed before experts can determine any possible safety advantages over traditional treatments.

What can parents do?

Parents or other caregivers concerned about a child who shows symptoms of autism should:

Talk with a health care provider about their concerns. He or she can help to determine whether the symptoms are caused by autism, a related disorder, or another condition. If necessary, the health care provider can refer the family to a mental health expert who specializes in treating persons with autism.
Get accurate information from libraries, hotlines, or other sources.
Ask questions about treatments and services.
Talk to other families in their communities who are coping with autism.
Find family network organizations.
People who are not satisfied with the mental health care they receive should discuss their concerns with the provider, ask for information, and/or seek help from other sources.

This is one of many fact sheets in a series on children's mental health disorders. All the fact sheets listed below are written in an easy-to-read style. Families, caretakers, and media professionals may find them helpful when researching particular mental health disorders. To obtain free copies, call 1-800-789-2647 or visit http://mentalhealth.samhsa.gov/child.

**For more info on this Article go here: http://mentalhealth.samhsa.gov/publications/allpubs/ca-0009/default.asp

Autism Screening Quiz For Children

2010-03-04T12:30:00.001-08:00

Autism Screening Quiz

Does your child have any symptoms of autism?

Try this Autism Screening Quiz from the people at About.com

http://pediatrics.about.com/od/autism/l/bl_autism.htm

Visit Danny's Wish Here:

Join Danny's Wish On Facebook

Follow Danny's Wish On Twitter

Danny's Wish Congratulates Caryl Bank and Barbara Feingold

2010-03-04T12:28:00.002-08:00

For 40 years of unwavering commitment
to the students and families of the Hagedorn Little Village School.

Your vision, foresight and faith in education
and therapeutic services have made a
positive difference in so many lives.

You have been the source of inspiration for me to
initiate The Hope Process...to provide a means
of giving back to charities across the country.

Thank you for your guiding light.

-Dino Sgueglia

The Process of Charitable Giving

www.dannyswish.org

www.thehopeprocess.com

Building a recurring residual of donations for the benefit of charitable organizations.

800 Shames Drive • Westbury, NY 11590 USA • Phone: 1-800-366-1388 • Fax: 1-877-837-2040

Danny's Wish Now Part of Givenik!

2010-03-04T12:28:00.001-08:00

Danny's Wish is proud to announce that we are now a member of Givenik, a program that donates 5% of Broadway ticket purchases to the charity of your choice! Follow the link below to see where we are featured. Going to the theater is even more rewarding now!
http://www.givenik.com/index.php?org=434

We are Also excited to let you know that from now until September,any purchases made on this website will contribute a donation to Danny's wish.
http://www.dawnmariecastellano.myarbonne.com/

Dawnmarie Castellano and Arbonne are your perfect one stop beauty shop! Visit them today for all your skin care needs!

We, at Danny's Wish would like to thank these programs and the many others that have signed on to support our organization. We could not do what we do without all of you. To learn more on how you can support Danny's Wish, please visit http://www.dannyswish.org/

Danny's Wish Now Part of the GuideStar Family!

2010-03-04T12:27:00.002-08:00

Danny's Wish is also on Facebook now. Take a look at and join their cause page today!

http://apps.facebook.com/causes/328844/39296333?m=71bb3202 The Facebook cause page allows you to personalize your help in the fight against Autism by creating a cause badge that can be placed right on your Facebook page. Let everyone of your friends see what causes you support today!

Danny's Wish....It's all about the giving!

http://www.dannyswish.org

Finding Support With Autism

2010-03-04T12:27:00.001-08:00

When dealing with Autism, sometimes it can feel like you are all alone. You may have questions that you can't find the answers to or need a recommendation on a good doctor. That's why it's important to find support where you can. Finding an Autism Society Chapter could be that place for you. As reported by the Autism Society of America, Autism Society chapters are your best source of information and support. To find a local chapter in your area, visit The Autism Society of America and the link below.

http://www.autism-society.org/site/PageServer?pagename=community_chapters

Learn more about how you can help support Autism research at Danny's Wish http://www.dannyswish.org At Danny's Wish, It's all about the giving!

Follow Us and Make a Connection!

2010-03-04T12:26:00.000-08:00

Danny's Wish is expanding and our Social Accounts are growing with us! Take a minute to save our links. We are looking forward to fostering relationships with you and making connections. Got a story to share? Email us or Facebook us. Has your life been touched by Autism and you want the chance to help give back? Join our cause page on Facebook. Want to Tweet with us? Follow us on Twitter. Want to help out with Haiti relief? Join The Hope Process' Karma 411 page!

Several ways to connect with us, several ways to get active! We look forward to hearing from you today!

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Dannys-Wish/286736276705?ref=ts#!/pages/Dannys-Wish/286736276705?ref=ts

Twitter: http://twitter.com/dannyswish

Cause Page: http://apps.facebook.com/causes/328844/39296333?m=71bb3202

Hope's Karma 411: https://www.karma411.com/Markslist/campaign/display/profile.do?campaignId=3181

Good Shop and Good Search

2010-03-04T12:25:00.002-08:00

IRN Payments is happy to announce that Danny's Wish is now officially a member of Good Shop and Good Search ( http://www.goodsearch.com/ ). Both are different ways to channel donations towards Danny's wish organization and help provide life enhancing resources and experiences for kids and families that deal with Autism and Autism related spectrum disorders.

Today, 1 in 150 children are diagnosed with Autism, making it more common than Pediatric Cancer, Juvenile Diabetes, Leukemia, Muscular Dystrophy and Pediatric AIDS combined! There has never been a better time to get involved. Please visit us at http://www.dannyswish.org/ Or visit Good Shop and Good Search to learn more.

Holiday Hints

2010-03-04T12:25:00.001-08:00

The holiday season is a busy time of year where the speed of life tends to pick up and routine days are replaced with change. For families with an autistic child, routine is an important factor on a day-to-day basis. Children get used to certain events happening on a consistent schedule. Traveling to family parties, hosting large gatherings or changing the layout of your home can create discomfort during the holiday season.

Families need to be aware of how the holidays will affect a young child living with autism. Here are a list of ideas and strategies that should help create a smooth transition from routine to festive.

A family with a child on the autism spectrum needs to be very aware of the sensory overload that is associated with the holidays. Bright lights, loud conversations, relatives that you see only once a year and even unique foods/scents can create static.

It is all about proper planning. Decorate your home shortly after Thanksgiving so your child can adapt as quickly as possible and consider leaving decorations up into January. Create an album or collage with photos from the year before so your child can become familiar with the holiday setting. If you are going to a relative's home, take a trip over before the day arrives, so it isn't a total shock. When the holiday arrives, bring a bag with familiar items to assist in comforting the child. A movie, stuffed animal or blanket can be all he/she needs to remain calm.

Avoid flying. Trains and cars offer a more pleasant experience, which will provide stability before arriving. Get off to a good start, have plans to maintain control and remain aware. Instead of trying to make an autistic child adapt to your party, try to adapt to his/her perspective of it. Most likely your child won't stay calm through a lengthy meal with odd food. Most likely visiting Santa isn't going to be a pleasant experience. Anticipate this and make the right decisions.

The holidays are a wonderful time of year. For families with an autistic child this is no exception. You just have to be an organized, aware parent and plan ahead for all possibilities. Try to make the experience as smooth as possible and that starts by thinking about everything through your child's eyes.

Know The Facts. Act Early.

2010-03-04T12:24:00.002-08:00

Autism is one of the fastest growing developmental disorders in the United States today. Early detection is key to treating and maintaining a healthy lifestyle for a child with autism. Each child should reach milestones in the way they speak, act, learn and play. A lack of growth in any of these areas could mean a developmental problem. Unfortunately, most health care professionals do not test for most developmental disorders until a parent expresses concern for their child's inability to reach certain milestones. Below are some signs that your child may be developmentally disabled:

-constant avoidance of eye contact
-having trouble relating to others or relating to other people's feelings
-responding to sounds but are unaware when others speak to them or initiate physical contact
-having trouble adapting to change
-repeating a word or phrase said to them to replace normal language
-inability to express thoughts and/or feelings to others
-repetition of acts over and over again
-having unusual fixations on objects

These are only a few signs of autism. However, this developmental disorder can range from acute to severe inability of functionality. Children with autism interact, learn, behave and communicate differently than most. Detecting and diagnosing this disorder early is key to helping a child with autism reach his/her full potential.

Man's best friend to play a role

2010-03-04T12:24:00.001-08:00

Six year old Chicago, Illinois resident Kaleb Drew and his labrador retriever Chewey made headlines about the presence of the trained dog in Drew's classroom. Kaleb is autistic. Drew's family feels the dog provides a calming influence that can not be created through traditional means. However, the school district feels strongly that the dog is not only a potential distraction the other students, but also a health risk due to possible allergies. The Drew family is currently waiting for a ruling to be handed down from the Illinois court that would hopefully overrule the current ban of service animals in schools. Autism may create obstacles for families like the Drews. Ways to fix these issues, such as a companion dog, should be respected if it works for the individual. Kaleb, like all first graders, is a curious kid that will enjoy learning in a classroom setting. If it takes a dog, cat, whistle, blanket or food to create a sense of comfort it should be accepted.

More Cases Than You Think

2010-03-04T12:23:00.000-08:00

A recent study has determined that the estimated number of children in the United States with any type of Autistic symptom may be much higher than previously understood. According to 2007 figures, it was understood that approximately 1:150 children in the U.S. were being diagnosed at some point in their lives. However, it appears true figures are more in the viscinity of 1:91 kids. This is a huge difference.

This ratio translates to nearly 700,000 cases in the U.S. alone.

The information has emerged through a government study that was published in the October issue of Pediatrics.

"Autism is a major public health challenge, and this study is another call to action that we need to be able to provide care across the lifespan," said Geraldine Dawson, Chief scientist officer of Autism Speaks.

It is estimated that over the course of a lifetime, health-care costs for someone with autism exceed $1.6 million, according to the study.

This is why we need organizations like Danny's Wish and to support its efforts. These children require a little more, but what they need can be supplied.

Help, learn more and speak out.

Swimming for Autism

2010-03-04T12:22:00.000-08:00

Swimming for Autism, check out this great group of guys helping in the fight against Autism! And remember, Dannys Wish is constantly striving to make a difference in the world of Autism. Please support them www.dannyswish.org

http://www.cbs6albany.com/video/?bcpid=1137806146&bclid=1173350596&bctid=30090121001

Teaching Tips for Children and Adults with Autism

2010-03-04T12:21:00.002-08:00

Below is a very informative article on "Teaching Tips for Children and Adults with Autism" written by Temple Grandin, Ph.D., who is said to be the most accomplished and well-known adult with autism in the world. For more on her click here: http://www.templegrandin.com/

Link to below article: http://www.autism.com/families/therapy/teaching_tips.htm

Teaching Tips for Children and Adults with Autism

Temple Grandin, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor
Colorado State University
Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA
(Revised: December 2002)

Good teachers helped me to achieve success. I was able to overcome autism because I had good teachers. At age 2 1/2 I was placed in a structured nursery school with experienced teachers. From an early age I was taught to have good manners and to behave at the dinner table. Children with autism need to have a structured day, and teachers who know how to be firm but gentle.

Between the ages of 2 1/4 and 5 my day was structured, and I was not allowed to tune out. I had 45 minutes of one-to-one speech therapy five days a week, and my mother hired a nanny who spent three to four hours a day playing games with me and my sister. She taught 'turn taking' during play activities. When we made a snowman, she had me roll the bottom ball; and then my sister had to make the next part. At mealtimes, every-body ate together; and I was not allowed to do any "stims." The only time I was allowed to revert back to autistic behavior was during a one-hour rest period after lunch. The combination of the nursery school, speech therapy, play activities, and "miss manners" meals added up to 40 hours a week, where my brain was kept connected to the world.

Many people with autism are visual thinkers. I think in pictures. I do not think in language. All my thoughts are like videotapes running in my imagination. Pictures are my first language, and words are my second language. Nouns were the easiest words to learn because I could make a picture in my mind of the word. To learn words like "up" or "down," the teacher should demonstrate them to the child. For example, take a toy airplane and say "up" as you make the airplane takeoff from a desk. Some children will learn better if cards with the words "up" and "down" are attached to the toy airplane. The "up" card is attached when the plane takes off. The "down" card is attached when it lands.
Avoid long strings of verbal instructions. People with autism have problems with remembering the sequence. If the child can read, write the instructions down on a piece of paper. I am unable to remember sequences. If I ask for directions at a gas station, I can only remember three steps. Directions with more than three steps have to be written down. I also have difficulty remembering phone numbers because I cannot make a picture in my mind.
Many children with autism are good at drawing, art and computer programming. These talent areas should be encouraged. I think there needs to be much more emphasis on developing the child's talents. Talents can be turned into skills that can be used for future employment.
Many autistic children get fixated on one subject such as trains or maps. The best way to deal with fixations is to use them to motivate school work. If the child likes trains, then use trains to teach reading and math. Read a book about a train and do math problems with trains. For example, calculate how long it takes for a train to go between New York and Washington.
Use concrete visual methods to teach number concepts. My parents gave me a math toy which helped me to learn numbers. It consisted of a set of blocks which had a different length and a different color for the numbers one through ten. With this I learned how to add and subtract. To learn fractions my teacher had a wooden apple that was cut up into four pieces and a wooden pear that was cut in half. From this I learned the concept of quarters and halves.
I had the worst handwriting in my class. Many autistic children have problems with motor control in their hands. Neat handwriting is sometimes very hard. This can totally frustrate the child. To reduce frustration and help the child to enjoy writing, let him type on the computer. Typing is often much easier.
Some autistic children will learn reading more easily with phonics, and others will learn best by memorizing whole words. I learned with phonics. My mother taught me the phonics rules and then had me sound out my words. Children with lots of echolalia will often learn best if flash cards and picture books are used so that the whole words are associated with pictures. It is important to have the picture and the printed word on the same side of the card. When teaching nouns the child must hear you speak the word and view the picture and printed word simultaneously. An example of teaching a verb would be to hold a card that says "jump," and you would jump up and down while saying "jump."
When I was a child, loud sounds like the school bell hurt my ears like a dentist drill hitting a nerve. Children with autism need to be protected from sounds that hurt their ears. The sounds that will cause the most problems are school bells, PA systems, buzzers on the score board in the gym, and the sound of chairs scraping on the floor. In many cases the child will be able to tolerate the bell or buzzer if it is muffled slightly by stuffing it with tissues or duct tape. Scraping chairs can be silenced by placing slit tennis balls on the ends of the legs or installing carpet. A child may fear a certain room because he is afraid he may be suddenly subjected to squealing microphone feedback from the PA system. The fear of a dreaded sound can cause bad behavior. If a child covers his ears, it is an indicator that a certain sound hurts his ears. Sometimes sound sensitivity to a particular sound, such as the fire alarm, can be desensitized by recording the sound on a tape recorder. This will allow the child to initiate the sound and gradually increase its volume. The child must have control of playback of the sound.
Some autistic people are bothered by visual distractions and fluorescent lights. They can see the flicker of the 60-cycle electricity. To avoid this problem, place the child's desk near the window or try to avoid using fluorescent lights. If the lights cannot be avoided, use the newest bulbs you can get. New bulbs flicker less. The flickering of fluorescent lights can also be reduced by putting a lamp with an old-fashioned incandescent light bulb next to the child's desk.
Some hyperactive autistic children who fidget all the time will often be calmer if they are given a padded weighted vest to wear. Pressure from the garment helps to calm the nervous system. I was greatly calmed by pressure. For best results, the vest should be worn for twenty minutes and then taken off for a few minutes. This prevents the nervous system from adapting to it.
Some individuals with autism will respond better and have improved eye contact and speech if the teacher interacts with them while they are swinging on a swing or rolled up in a mat. Sensory input from swinging or pressure from the mat sometimes helps to improve speech. Swinging should always be done as a fun game. It must NEVER be forced.
Some children and adults can sing better than they can speak. They may respond better if words and sentences are sung to them. Some children with extreme sound sensitivity will respond better if the teacher talks to them in a low whisper.
Some nonverbal children and adults cannot process visual and auditory input at the same time. They are mono-channel. They cannot see and hear at the same time. They should not be asked to look and listen at the same time. They should be given either a visual task or an auditory task. Their immature nervous system is not able to process simultaneous visual and auditory input.
In older nonverbal children and adults touch is often their most reliable sense. It is often easier for them to feel. Letters can be taught by letting them feel plastic letters. They can learn their daily schedule by feeling objects a few minutes before a scheduled activity. For example, fifteen minutes before lunch give the person a spoon to hold. Let them hold a toy car a few minutes before going in the car.
Some children and adults with autism will learn more easily if the computer key-board is placed close to the screen. This enables the individual to simultaneously see the keyboard and screen. Some individuals have difficulty remembering if they have to look up after they have hit a key on the keyboard.
Nonverbal children and adults will find it easier to associate words with pictures if they see the printed word and a picture on a flashcard. Some individuals do not under-stand line drawings, so it is recommended to work with real objects and photos first. The picture and the word must be on the same side of the card.
Some autistic individuals do not know that speech is used for communication. Language learning can be facilitated if language exercises promote communication. If the child asks for a cup, then give him a cup. If the child asks for a plate, when he wants a cup, give him a plate. The individual needs to learn that when he says words, concrete things happen. It is easier for an individual with autism to learn that their words are wrong if the incorrect word resulted in the incorrect object.
Many individuals with autism have difficulty using a computer mouse. Try a roller ball (or tracking ball) pointing device that has a separate button for clicking. Autistics with motor control problems in their hands find it very difficult to hold the mouse still during clicking.
Children who have difficulty understanding speech have a hard time differentiating between hard consonant sounds such as 'D' in dog and 'L' in log. My speech teacher helped me to learn to hear these sounds by stretching out and enunciating hard consonant sounds. Even though the child may have passed a pure tone hearing test he may still have difficulty hearing hard consonants. Children who talk in vowel sounds are not hearing consonants.
Several parents have informed me that using the closed captions on the television helped their child to learn to read. The child was able to read the captions and match the printed works with spoken speech. Recording a favorite program with captions on a tape would be helpful because the tape can be played over and over again and stopped.
Some autistic individuals do not understand that a computer mouse moves the arrow on the screen. They may learn more easily if a paper arrow that looks EXACTLY like the arrow on the screen is taped to the mouse.
Children and adults with visual processing problems can see flicker on TV type computer monitors. They can sometimes see better on laptops and flat panel displays which have less flicker.
Children and adults who fear escalators often have visual processing problems. They fear the escalator because they cannot determine when to get on or off. These individuals may also not be able to tolerate fluorescent lights. The Irlen colored glasses may be helpful for them.
Individuals with visual processing problems often find it easier to read if black print is printed on colored paper to reduce contrast. Try light tan, light blue, gray, or light green paper. Experiment with different colors. Avoid bright yellow--it may hurt the individual's eyes. Irlen colored glasses may also make reading easier. (Click here to visit the Irlen Institute's web site.)
Teaching generalization is often a problem for children with autism. To teach a child to generalize the principle of not running across the street, it must be taught in many different locations. If he is taught in only one location, the child will think that the rule only applies to one specific place.
A common problem is that a child may be able to use the toilet correctly at home but refuses to use it at school. This may be due to a failure to recognize the toilet. Hilde de Clereq from Belgium discovered that an autistic child may use a small non-relevant detail to recognize an object such as a toilet. It takes detective work to find that detail. In one case a boy would only use the toilet at home that had a black seat. His parents and teacher were able to get him to use the toilet at school by covering its white seat with black tape. The tape was then gradually removed and toilets with white seats were now recognized as toilets.
Sequencing is very difficult for individuals with severe autism. Sometimes they do not understand when a task is presented as a series of steps. An occupational therapist successfully taught a nonverbal autistic child to use a playground slide by walking his body through climbing the ladder and going down the slide. It must be taught by touch and motor rather than showing him visually. Putting on shoes can be taught in a similar manner. The teacher should put her hands on top of the child’s hands and move the child’s hands over his foot so he feels and understands the shape of his foot. The next step is feeling the inside and the outside of a slip-on shoe. To put the shoe on, the teacher guides the child’s hands to the shoe and, using the hand-over-hand method, slides the shoe onto the child’s foot. This enables the child to feel the entire task of putting on his shoe.
Fussy eating is a common problem. In some cases the child may be fixated on a detail that identifies a certain food. Hilde de Clerq found that one child only ate Chiquita bananas because he fixated on the labels. Other fruit such as apples and oranges were readily accepted when Chiquita labels were put on them. Try putting different but similar foods in the cereal box or another package of a favorite food. Another mother had success by putting a homemade hamburger with a wheat free bun in a McDonald’s package.

Tyler's Magic Word Box

2010-03-04T12:21:00.001-08:00

Finding out that a son or daughter has been diagnosed with Autism is difficult for any parent to swallow. With so much literature about Autism focusing on intense, scary details finding lighter, positive text can be a struggle. Nevertheless, parents have to search out ways to best raise their child, while providing the special care Autism demands.

Gilda Horgan is a musician, artist and parent of an Autistic child. When Tyler was diagnosed with Autism five years ago, Horgan was overwhelmed with all of the potential problems her son faced. She decided to explore another angle, looking for inspiration for both Tyler and herself.

Horgan created "Tyler's Magic Word Box", a children's book that she used to showcase Tyler's progress, assist in teaching and most importantly offer a positive outlet for her son. The book praises the hard work teachers and therapists do daily, while also laying out a fun story all children will respond to. The story will appeal to children with its foundation surrounding magic and adventure.

Horgan continues to write about Autism and relies on other families to relay stories of personal struggles and successes with Autism. She feels her work is at its best when it includes real stories and experiences. She is currently working on a collection of lighthearted, silly stories she hopes will be used as a tool for those living with Autism to read and pass on to others in the same scenario.

Check out the entire article about Gilda Hogan's efforts.

http://www.theautismnews.com/2009/11/02/mother-wants-to-inspire-hope/

We are all the same

2010-03-04T12:20:00.001-08:00

Autism affects a lot of children in the world and the figures continue to grow everyday. These children demand attention and have unique needs. Smaller classrooms, more hands-on assistance and warm surroundings. Dealing with autistic kids can be awkward or uncomfortable. It takes patience. Autism will touch the lives of millions this year. However, all of the above doesn't change the fact that a child with Autism wants the same things any kid wants. TO be loved, taught and nurtured the same as all of his or her peers. Danny's Way has a mission. To provide resources and positive experiences to as many young boys and girls as possible. You can help! Donate today, any amount you want and know that you will be helping in a big way.

What is Danny's Wish?

2010-03-04T11:57:00.000-08:00

About Us
Danny is a fun loving energetic 12-year-old boy, who likes to play basketball, enjoys watching hockey games, loves the movie Shrek, and will eat ketchup with just about anything! This little Boyscout also enjoys swimming, painting, going to concerts and will never pass up an opportunity to play catch with you.

Danny is also Autistic.

Like many other children, Danny struggles with Autism, a developmental disability that too often results in a lifetime of impaired thinking, feeling and social functioning. It typically affects a person's ability to communicate, form relationships with others and respond appropriately to the external world. People with the condition often exhibit repetitive behavior or narrow, obsessive interests. Other characteristics of Autism include problems with verbal and nonverbal communication and social interaction. It is considered a “spectrum disorder” because the characteristics and symptoms of the disorder are so very unique to each case.

Danny has a very unique characteristic all his own, and that is his ability to light up a room with his amazing smile. Despite his disability, he is eager and excited to experience the world in its entirety.

If Danny could have one wish, his wish would be for other children and people affected by Autism to experience, enjoy and love life just as much as he does. That is why we’ve created Danny’s Wish, to help provide life enhancing resources and experiences for kids and families that deal with Autism and Autism related spectrum disorders.

Though dealing with Autism is a daily struggle that imposes many obstacles, it has never restricted Danny from trying to live life to his fullest. Danny shows us that we can look past the disability, and on to a bright future full of great opportunities and possibilities.

Help us make Danny’s Wish come true!

It’s all about giving.

http://www.dannyswish.org/

How Nuch Do You Know About Alzheimer's

2010-02-24T10:14:00.000-08:00

Take The Alzheimer's Quiz And Find Out.

Click Here To Take Quiz #1

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Click Here To Take The Alzheimer's Caregiver Quiz

Click Here To Take The Alzheimer's Poll

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Danny's Wish Now a Member of Guidestar!

2010-01-20T11:39:00.000-08:00

Have you heard the news? Danny's Wish is now a part of the GuideStar family! Now there are even more ways for you to make your mark and help children with Autism by making a donation to Danny's Wish through GuideStar. Just visit the link below to get started. With a click you can make a difference in a child life! There's never been a better time to get involved than now.http://www2.guidestar.org/organizations/24-4595056/dannys-wish.aspx

Danny's Wish is also on Facebook now. Take a look at and join their cause page today!
http://apps.facebook.com/causes/328844/39296333?m=71bb3202 The Facebook cause page allows you to personalize your help in the fight against Autism by creating a cause badge that can be placed right on your Facebook page. Let everyone of your friends see what causes you support today!
Danny's Wish....It's all about the giving!
http://www.dannyswish.org