Autism
My take on Autism
#PresumeCompetence
I have autism. Many wonder what this diagnosis means. Like any diagnosis there is a spectrum of levels. The levels suggest a variety of needs. I fall on the spectrum of nonspeaking. From the outside I may seem like I don't understand because I respond differently than others. I communicate by typing. I am very intelligent, it is not an intellectual disability.
Unfortunately this kind of misconception is damaging. Because I do not verbally speak, assumptions are formed about my knowledge. I have been blessed in so many ways. I use a facilitated communication model to type. This process is done with a communication partner. I now have the ability to learn and write about the things I want.
My Favorite Resources
1
Reach Every Voice
Reach Every Voice, based in Rockville, Maryland helps nonspeakers to find their voice through spelling. They will meet the individual where they are and have experience working with all ages and all levels. They offer virtual classes, too., so no need to be in Maryland to take advantage of their lessons and techniques.
2
HALO
HALO Institute, based in Austin, Texas is the home of the Rapid Prompting Method (RPM) developed by Soma Mukhopadhyay. Her tireless efforts to help her own son led to the development of this method and the creation of the HALO Institute.
3
Cisco Center
The Cisco Center, based in Severna Park, Maryland is a special needs pre-school for students ages 3-5. However, they offer summer and after-school programs for school age children. They even offer parent night outs. Their specialized staff is trained to work with children with all types of disabilities. They offer a warm and compassionate place for children to develop.
