We're Moving!

Well, sort of. The Pollard Memorial Library recently launched its new web site. In addition to a new design, the new web site now houses the Pollard Memorial Library's Autism Resource Guide. As such, this blog will no longer be maintained or updated. Instead, I will be updating it on the library's web site. It's the same information, just in a different format. To access the Autism Resource Guide via the library's web site, click here. Make sure to bookmark it!

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1 in 110: Autism Spectrum Resources for Families

According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, 1 in 110 children in the United States is on the autism spectrum. Youth Services Staff has compiled a list of autism spectrum resources for families. The best place to start, if you suspect your child might be on the spectrum, is to have your child screened. The earlier your child starts therapies, the better. If your child is under age three there are two local agencies, South Bay Early Intervention and Thom Anne Sullivan Center, that provide screening services. If your child is age three or older, contact the Lowell Public Schools for assistance.

Information contained in this blog does not constitute library endorsement of a treatment, agency or advocacy group. The library maintains that it is up to the parent/legal guardian to determine proper treatment for his/her child. This blog is solely a place of information for the huge array of materials related to Autism Spectrum Disorders.

If your family uses a service or has a favorite autism spectrum website that is not listed, please let us know so we can share with others in the community. Contact Molly Hancock, Coordinator of Youth Services at mhancock@mvlc.org.

Wednesday, November 30, 2011

Free Respite Care

From LifeLinks:

The holiday season can be a frantic time. Shopping is high on everyone's "to do" list. This task, however, can be even more challenging for special needs families. On Saturday, December 10, 2011, from 1 PM - 4 PM, LifeLinks is offering free respite care so that parents can get their holiday shopping done. Care is for children age 18 years and younger and there are a limited number of slots available. Parents must reserve their spot, provide transportation, and sign a waiver. Respite will be provided at the LifeLinks location in Chelmsford, MA. Reserve your spot by calling 978-349-3040 or by e-mailing familysupport@lifelinksinc.net.
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Adult Services Fair

From LifeLinks:

Adult Services Fair
(For Individuals Ages 14 Years to 25 Years)
Thursday, December 8, 2011
4 PM - 6 PM
at LifeLinks
285 Mill Rd.
Chelmsford, MA 01824

LifeLinks, in conjunction with the DDS, is offering an Adult Services Fair. More than 25 organizations will be on hand.
Following the Fair, a transition workshop will be offered. This workshop runs 6 PM - 8 PM.

This is a drop-in event but RSVP's are appreciated. Contact 978-349-3040 or familysupport@lifelinksinc.net .
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Wednesday, November 23, 2011

Coping with Holiday Gatherings

With the holidays comes more opportunities for social functions. People on the autism spectrum can sometimes have a difficult time with these occasions. As a way to help families, Autism Speaks has included the social story, "We Going to a Big Family Party" on its blog. Social stories are a way to help people on the spectrum anticipate something that is going to happen. Sometimes this type of assistance helps alleviate their anxieties. "We're Going to a Big Family Party" is taken from Carol Gray's The New Social Story Book.
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Friday, November 18, 2011

Sensory Friendly Films


The AMC Theaters in Tyngsboro (978-649-4158) and Methuen (978-738-8942) are offering this upcoming sensory friendly films:

December 3, 2011 10 AM
The Muppets

For more information about AMC's Sensory Friendly films, visit their website or the Autism Society of America website.
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Wednesday, November 16, 2011

Family Support Tool Kits

Autism Speaks has various family support tool kits on their web page. The latest tool kit is the "Siblings Support Kit." To download the link go to their webpage.
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Thursday, November 10, 2011

A Very Special Santa



Santa will be making a special visit to the Pollard Library in Lowell, MA on Saturday, December 10th. He is coming to visit our friends on the autism spectrum and friends with sensory issues. Stop by any time between 9:30 AM and 11 AM to visit with Santa. Bring a camera to capture a memory.
Please note that this event is specifically for special needs kids. We appreciate your understanding!
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