Definition of an intimidating situation: needing to convince someone in authority that “the way things are done” is the wrong approach. It’s a situation all too familiar to many parents whose children have disabilities: Whatever your gut reaction may say,…
Among worker qualities valued at all levels and across all industries, one consistent top ranker is interactive or soft skills—such as networking, person-to-person communication, and teamwork. Hiring managers look for outgoing and empathetic candidates; supervisors and coworkers like sharing their…
Theme parks aren’t just for the neurotypical and able-bodied. Meet Morgan’s Wonderland, aka “The First Theme Park Where EVERYONE Can Play” and “The One and Only Ultra-Accessible™ Theme Park.” Created by Gordon Hartman and named for his special-needs daughter, Morgan’s…
Cancel the environmental noises you don’t like, by filling your ears with sounds you do like. The myNoise app is free to download and provides 20 My Noises options that include favorite low-noise indoor backgrounds (e.g., airplane, Restaurant, Calm Office)…
A nod to National Business Etiquette Week, the first full week in June. Most workers who succeed in their professions are experts in the rules of business etiquette: If you’re on the autism spectrum or have an adult child who…
No question: it takes more than a high school diploma to prepare for the college world. High school is a right and a duty; college is an earned privilege. High school students are supervised by school faculty during class hours…
We wind up April as Autism Acceptance Month with another “Popular Misconceptions” article. (After you read it, take time to brush up on what actually works with autism, through our earlier posts on autism app lists, autism assistive technology, and…
Society is well rid of the days when “special education” meant sequestering kids in classes that rarely taught anything above kindergarten level, and post-graduation employment was limited to “sheltered workshops.” Still, autism and intellectual disorders mean extra challenges navigating the…
April 26 is International Noise Awareness Day. Whatever constitutes everyday “background noise” in your neighborhood or community, your conscious brain has probably learned to tune it out—but never giving it a thought may be costing you. Noise and Health The…
Today’s post is in honor of National Volunteer Week—and of all people, with or without special challenges, who make time to help build a better world. “Volunteering defines America,” states President Biden in this year’s Volunteer Week proclamation. “We seek…
