Autism

Neurodiverse family in Chicago, IL
Accessible Chicago: autism-friendly family fun for neurodiverse families

Numerous children on the autism spectrum struggle with sensory processing difficulties and oftentimes find family outings to be distressing. During these excursions, neurodiverse families often rely on predictability and routine…

Inspirational story of autism
Former Maroon managing editor Michael McClure reflects on how being diagnosed with autism

Michael McClure's story is touching and relatable to other people on the spectrum, and he shares this with others through his own personal experience. He hopes that his writing will…

Chicago police autism friendly
Senate passes bill mandating autism training for Illinois law enforcement officers

There's been an ongoing concern related to the safety of individuals with autism, more especially when it comes to their interactions with Illinois law enforcement. As any other autistic mom…

Autism friendly urban farming in Chicago IL
Urban farm helps students with autism

Life skills are among the valuable lessons that children can be taught at school. Among these lessons is always agriculture, which is a vital part of our urban environment.  This…

Cicadas in Chicago IL
How people with autism, sensory sensitivities are prepping for cicadas

Seasons come and go, bringing with them various changes in nature. One such change that is eagerly anticipated by many is the emergence of cicadas every spring. During spring, this…

Autistic entrepreneur in Chicago
Entrepreneur with autism expands pretzel business to many sites across Central Maryland

It's Autism Acceptance Month, and nothing better exemplifies the infinite potential of individuals with autism than Marcus Moore's business (Selling Delicious Pretzel). Moore, who is on the spectrum, has his…

dtudent with disability in Chicago IL
Chicago’s low-income families of students with disabilities eligible for new $500 grants

Chicago's municipal government, under the leadership of Mayor Brandon Johnson, has allocated funds from pandemic relief. These funds are meant to provide financial assistance to students with disabilities from economically…

Chicago Fire FC autism event
MATCH PREVIEW, pres. by Toyota: Red Bulls Host Chicago for 10th Annual Autism Acceptance Match, pres. by Hackensack Meridian Health

Autism awareness is the focus in the Month of April, and this time around, there are great sports events to commemorate the season. For example The New York Red Bulls…

Autism awareness day in Chicago
Autism Awareness Day 2024: 5 ways therapy helps children grow

Every year on the 2nd of April people gather to celebrate World Autism Awareness Day or in brief WAAD. This is a tradition that has been celebrated for almost  17…

celebrity kids with Autism
These Celebrity Parents Have Gotten Real About Raising Kids with Autism

Based on CDC data, it is estimated that 1 in 36 children experience ASD. This rise in the number of cases has sparked an emphasis on spreading awareness and conducting…

Music therapy for autism in Chicago IL
Striking A Chord: How a music therapy program reunited two long-lost friends

People may have many fond memories. For others, it is their childhood, and for some, it is memories of their friends. The last one applies to a duo that met…

Autism event in Chicago restaurant
Taureaux Tavern Introduces Spring and Summer Menu Additions

When big  organizations like Taureaux Tavern celebrate World Autism Month, the impact is far-reaching and powerful. In April this known place is offering a cocktail named "Uniquely You" and has…

The Four Kingdoms of Autism

There have been some misconceptions about Autism with some believing it is linked to vaccines while others argue that it is not a disorder but a unique gift that may…

Autism expo in Illinois
Discover the power of connection at the 3rd Annual Autism & Developmental Differences Expo!

As more and more individuals & organizations join hands to support the autism and special needs community, an impetus is created towards creating a more inclusive and understanding society. This…

Autism awareness month in Chicago
3 helpful resources for Autism Awareness Month and Autism Acceptance Month

Autism awareness and acceptance of individuals diagnosed with this developmental condition are among the main focuses during this month of April. With people acknowledging Autism awareness every month, society is…

autism project in uConn
UConn’s Connect Project Explores Language Abilities in Autism

Inge-Marie Eigsti, a psychology professor at UConn, is spearheading a group of researchers from Boston, Philadelphia, and Aarhus, Denmark in an effort to untangle the intricacies of language skills in…

Autism diagnosis in Chicago
Tallulah Willis shares autism diagnosis has changed her life

It is a remarkable step forward to see the Autism stigma being broken by individuals like Tallulah Willis, who bravely share their personal journeys. At the age of 30, she…

autism job in Chicago
Aspire Accessories empowers artisans with autism

A  multitude of studies have revealed that a significant portion, more than fifty percent, of young individuals diagnosed with autism are without employment. Almost half of 25-year-olds living with autism…

Careers in autism
Suburban Company Trains those on Autism Spectrum For fulfilling career

As more Awareness is brought to the importance of diversity and inclusion in the workplace, one suburban organization has made it their mission to provide opportunities for individuals on the…

Pedal for autism
Illinois Center for Autism to Host Annual Pedal for Autism Fundraiser and Family Fun Fest

To create an equitable and inclusive society, we need to come together and support those affected by disabilities. This support can take various forms, including accommodations, financial aid, and, most…

Chicago drummer with Autism
Autism Advocate Empowers South And East Side Communities Through Drumming

Meet Victoria Boateng, a talented djembe and dunun drummer who at the tender age of 3, was diagnosed with autism. This condition made it difficult for Victoria to communicate, and…

Autism therapy in Chicago
How to engage parents in autism therapy

Among the most esteemed Doctors is Angela Nelson, a prominent leader in the field of Autism research. In an interview with KevinMD, she took the time to share with parents…

RNA Autism
Little-studied RNA might be key to regulating genetic disorders like epilepsy, autism

Recent research on Autism has shifted the spotlight onto genetics and the intricate role of RNA in brain development. One of the recent research conducted by scientists at Northwestern Medicine…

Ford event for Autistic people
Ford supports Chicago Department of Health leading on mental health emergencies

If you’ve watched the news lately, you probably have already heard that police and fire department paramedics here in Chicago will no longer comprise the core of Chicago's Crisis Assistance…

Empowering families: The Answer Inc.’s fundraiser for autism & developmental disabilities support

There is a huge number of Autism cases out there in the world today, and parents everywhere are faced with the myriad problems that arise when ensuring care and support…

Cereal business in Chicago
Physicians open small cereal business in support of sons, others with autism

Dr. Berlinda Torres and Dr. Edwin Santa, both esteemed physicians, have made it their lifelong mission to use their expertise to help others, especially the disabled. This has been their…

Chicago bus
Suburban mom says son with autism placed on the wrong bus, causing frightening afternoon

The initial school day is a crucial factor in determining a child's future academic experience. As a result, it's imperative to ensure that all necessary precautions are taken to ensure…

Autism friendly cafe in Chicago
Chicago children’s store named after boy with autism aims to boost Chatham community

A children's store called Jadens Place, located in Chatham near the intersection of 87th and Stony Island, has brought a burst of positivity and joy to the community. Jaden's Place…

Brain cell activation in Autism
Brain Cell Activation Technique May Help Treat Autism, Cerebral Palsy: Study

As Autism Research advances, new methods are on the horizon for potential treatment. Various experimental techniques are being explored, such as Gut Microbiota Transplant, which involves the transfer of healthy…

TikTok for autistic kids in Chicago
How TikTok helped me become closer to my brother with autism

Autism awareness is an integral part of an inclusive society, as it helps promote understanding towards individuals with autism in offices, school and even social events. This is why two…

Serotonin research in Autism
Study sheds new light on autism, but there’s more work to be done

A team of researchers from esteemed institutions such as Columbia and Vanderbilt universities and collaborators from various regions have been diligently working to unravel the mysteries surrounding autism. One of…

Back to school season in Chicago
Back-to-school tips for children with Autism, Anxiety disorders

Schools are almost back in session, and many parents are in a mix between the state of excitement and anxiety. On the one hand, it's great that children will be…

Autistic girl in Chicago with a pet
How to handle Fourth of July fireworks for pets

Independence Day is around the corner, and one thing to expect is a sky lit up with dazzling fireworks displays throughout the Chicago region. However, these vibrant explosions can have…

Pucks for autism event in Chicago
Pucks for Autism’ hockey tournament hits the ice this weekend

Pucks for Autism Hockey Tournament, now in its ninth year, is doing a remarkable job of increasing public autism awareness and fundraising for families to create supportive environments for individuals…

Autism characters on TV
10 TV Characters With Autism Spectrum Disorder

For those who love watching television, especially TV shows on neurodiversity, you’ve probably noticed that TV shows and Movies have improved, at least in how they portray authentic Autism. Back…

Autistic graduate in Chicago IL
Family of Girl with ‘Profound Autism’ Worried She Wouldn’t Get Proper Therapy — Now She’s Graduating High School

Sarah could not believe her eyes as she watched her daughter graduating from high school and making her way across the stage. The overwhelming emotions that flooded her, from tears…

eye tracking autism
Eye-tracking measures could help make the right autism diagnosis sooner

One of the main hurdles in Autism diagnosis is the extended time it takes for assessments to be completed. This delay primarily stems from the demand for evaluations surpassing the…

Understanding Autism
Unveiling autism spectrum: Path to understanding and change

Dr Msuya, one of the best researchers in the field, answers a question that is commonly asked by parents - "Why did my child develop autism?" It's a question that…

Human Perspectives
Navigating the Autism Spectrum: Human Perspectives

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental condition affecting everyone differently. Some people with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) have significant challenges, whereas others with the same diagnosis have lesser…

helping Chicago migrant kids
How One Chicagoan Helps Migrant Kids With Disabilities

Many families around the world are facing challenges in raising a child with disabilities. These hurdles are not just limited to financial constraints but also extend to social reclusion and…

Autism telehealth service for Chicago residents
Autism providers look to telehealth to bridge access gaps

More Diagnosis of Autism is on the rise, and professionals are now turning to technology as a way to improve access to applied behavioral analysis services for those living in…

special education for Autistic kids in Illinois
Personal aides for students are the unsung heroes of special education in CPS

Students diagnosed with Autism deserve the same opportunities as their peers in education. This means that they deserve the right accommodations, such as specialized instruction and support services so that…

autism impaired driver in Chicago
New Driver Bill in Illinois

It's a sigh of relief as the new traffic bill passed by the state senate, pushed by State Sen. Julie Morrison, goes ahead to ensure better experiences for drivers with…

evidence-based interventions
Evidence Based Interventions

Early intervention and ongoing support help children and adults with autism reach their unique potential. Choosing evidence-based strategies that have been rigorously tested and published in peer-reviewed journals ensures the…

autistic adult in Chicago, IL
How I Found Out I Have Autism

It's always been held that autism is a condition for kids. But as you've probably already heard, even adults are now being diagnosed with autism. Jennifer Taylor is just an…

Chicago boy wearing autism hoodie
Chicago 11-year-old creates hoodie to help autism patients self-soothe

Meet Malachi Rucker - the 11-year-old who devised an ingenious fashion hack to help those dealing with autism and sensory processing disorders. Malachi is fed up with being bullied because…

social media for autistic persons
New report reveals autistic adults’ social media experiences and provides toolkits to better support the needs of neurodivergent users

Statistically,  Autism awareness has improved remarkably over the past two decades, with more than 6000 Brits being diagnosed. However, with all that success, the majority of autistic adults in the…

parents of an autistic kid in Chicago
The Crucial Role of Parents in ABA Therapy: Fostering Collaboration for Success

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy has become an essential tool in many families with young children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). This evidence-based approach focuses on improving specific behaviors…

Autistic Muni Long in Chicago
Muni Long Autism

The talented and rising artist Muni Long has been making waves in the music industry with great music. But Muni has also been candid about her health journey and raising…

Employment Opportunities
Naperville’s Students with Autism Learn Marketable Skills to Bolster Future Employment Opportunities

Autism impacts a person's capacity for language, social interaction, and appropriate behavior. It's a developmental disorder with varying symptoms for various people throughout their lives. While some people with autism…

Navigating Late Autism Diagnosis as a Woman of Color
Navigating Late Autism Diagnosis as a Woman of Color: Morgan Harper Nichols’ Journey

Morgan Harper Nichols is a Black artist, musician, and author based in Atlanta, Georgia. She is known for her inspiring poetry and art that has touched the hearts of many.…

Increase in Autism Diagnoses in the United States Attributed to Better Screening
Increase in Autism Diagnoses in the United States Attributed to Better Screening

According to a recent report by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more children in the United States are being diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) due to…

illlinois autism bill
Illinois Passes Legislation to Increase Access to Autism Therapy

Two bills have passed both the House and Senate in Illinois, paving the way for increased access to Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) therapy for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).…

The Potential of Eye Tests
A New Frontier in Autism Screening: The Potential of Eye Tests

A new study published by researchers at Washington State University suggests that an eye test could be used to screen children for autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The study found that…

Children waiting to get tested for Autism in Chicago
Addressing the Wait List Crisis for Autism Diagnosis in America

An increasing issue in diagnosing cases of autism has emerged in the United States in recent years. With an increasing number of children and adults suspected of being on the…

A Non-Profit Organization Helping Families Impacted by Autism in Chicago
The Answer Inc: A Non-Profit Organization Helping Families Impacted by Autism in Chicago

In Chicago, several organizations are dedicated to increasing autism awareness and improving the quality of life for those affected by autism spectrum disorder (ASD). One such organization is The Answer…

autism rates soar in Illinois
Understanding the Rise in Autism Rates

In recent years, there has been a significant increase in the prevalence of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) diagnoses. According to reports from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC),…

autism prenatal risks
California Autism Twin Study Explores Prenatal Risk Factors

Autism researchers have long been dedicated to investigating the origins of Autism. Current knowledge suggests that environmental elements, like air pollutants, play a role in the development of autism. This…

Gut of autistic person
Autism affects gut bacteria diversity, says study

Autism rates continue to rise globally & this has prompted scholars and researchers worldwide to further investigate this issue. One such effort was made by a team from Isreael's Bar-Ilan…

autism-friendly in Chicago
Autism Friendly Parks in Chicago

We, at Illinois Autism Center, understand the significance of surpassing mere awareness and striving towards true acceptance and inclusion for individuals with autism. That is why we want to highlight…

cookies by autistic kid in Chicago
This Chicago dad created a cookie line inspired by his son who has autism

Meet Alvin Green, the owner of Al’s Cookie Mixx - a cookie business that opened last fall.  What sets Al's Cookie Mixx apart from others is that it is run…

University of Chicago, autism
UChicago student volunteers foster creativity and belonging at South Side school

While volunteering at City Elementary on the South Side of Chicago, University of Chicago student Alli Marney-Bell was pleasantly surprised to discover the powerful impact of music on her students.…

ASD conferences in Chicago IL
Autism conference events in Chicago in 2024

It's another level of support and resources for parents with autistic children when they attend autism conferences. These gatherings can always serve resourcefully, especially in expanding understanding of autism &…

autism sensory room in Chicago
WIU to add sensory rooms

It's a remarkable initiative by Western Illinois University to establish sensory rooms at both its campuses. This initiative will provide accommodation to individuals with neurodivergent students, such as students diagnosed…

Tennis for autistic Chicago kids
Adaptive tennis serves athletes with disabilities

Sports are part of the fabric of our society. They bring people together, put a  smile on faces, and create lasting memories regardless of disabilities or ethnic background. Beck Saltzman,…

Autism stickers in Lincoln Park, IL
Orland Park sticker program meant to help police respond to calls involving people with autism

Recently, a new initiative has been launched to help ease communication between Orland Park police officers and individuals with autism, including those with communication needs. This initiative by the name…

chicago auto show for autism
Chicago Auto Show’s First Look For Charity Welcomes Turning Pointe Autism Foundation

This week, from the 9th to the 13th of February, we anticipate a special event in the city of Chicago. It's the 32nd First Look, that will take place at…

telehealth and autism
Telehealth and ABA Services: Bridging the Gap in Underserved Communities

As autism diagnoses continue to rise, the demand for applied behavioral analysis (ABA) services has increased, particularly in underserved communities. Telehealth is becoming increasingly popular to bridge the access gap…

Autism awareness in Chicago IL
IceHogs 13th Annual Autism Awareness Night Returns Jan. 20

Awareness through works of care and charity helps eradicate misconceptions surrounding this Autism, & also helps raise funds that later could be used for the development of better treatment methods…

Autistic boy in Illinois
“Achieving My Best Life”: Helping Those Facing Autism, Other Cognitive Challenges

The rates of individuals impacted by Autism are on the rise with each passing year, and children are at the forefront of this growing epidemic. An issue that is growing…

sensory friendly venues in Chicago IL
Sensory-Friendly Attractions and Activities in Chicagoland

Children are naturally adventurous & love exploring their surroundings. But not all children are the same. Some are more sensitive to loud noises and bright lights, both factors that hinder…

animal assisted therapy
Animal therapy makes a difference for children from Sderot. Here is how

There are numerous therapists who specialize in cognitive behavior therapy (CBT). However, Noa Dotan has elevated her practice by combining CBT with animal-assisted therapy. Noa Dotan was the first animal…

autism cafe in Chicago
Nationwide grant program is helping 3 Black chefs elevate their autism-friendly Chicago restaurants

Retired Army veteran Quinton McNair, was faced with unprecedented times, just like the rest of the world. With more free time on his hands due to the pandemic, he took…

parents of autistic kids
Parents of Children With Autism Win Fight Over Right to Wear GPS Trackers to School

The parents of two autistic boys on Long Island are claiming victory in a fight with local schools over their kids' right to wear GPS tracking devices to class. Dayann…

autism show on TV
Autism Representation Is Growing on TV

Meet Marie Myung-Ok Lee, an acclaimed author who collaborates with her 23-year-old son Jason, an autistic individual, to investigate the current portrayal of Autism in film and television. Through their…

world autism awareness day
Three easy ways to get involved in World Autism Awareness Day

World Autism Awareness Day on April 2 is a time to shine a bright light on autism as a growing global public health priority. To commemorate this, Autism Speaks started…