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

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.

Tuesday, January 17, 2012

Help for Travelers with Disabilities

From Disability Scoop:

A new phone number could make your next trip to the airport go a little bit smoother.

The Transportation Security Administration has a new toll-free hotline specifically for airline passengers with disabilities and special medical needs.

Representatives are available to answer questions about airport screening procedures and can refer passengers to TSA disability experts as needed, according to the agency.

TSA officials recommend that travelers call the new phone line dubbed “TSA Cares” 72 hours before leaving home so that the agency can coordinate as needed with local airport security.

“This additional level of personal communication helps ensure that even those who do not travel often are aware of our screening policies before they arrive at the airport,” said TSA Administrator John Pistole in a statement.

In addition to the new phone number, TSA officials say that travelers can request a supervisor at the airport if they have questions about screening procedures.

Introduction of the TSA Cares hotline comes after numerous complaints from travelers with disabilities who indicated that agents subjected them to invasive searches and disregarded their special needs.

TSA Cares is available weekdays from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. EST by calling (855) 787-2227.

Monday, January 9, 2012

iDevice Workshop

From the MA Sped Child and Teen newsletter:

iDevices for Beginners: iPod Touch, iPad, and iPhone: January 11, 2012, 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m., Easter Seals ATRC, Boston. ATRC Co-ordinators will present some of the latest iDevices and gear the information towards the new user. Discussion includes the latest operating system (iOS5), the importance of backing up your device, general settings, built-in accessibility features, gestures, and how to select and download quality "apps". Attendees are welcome to bring their iDevices. R.S.V.P to 617-226-2634, or ATRC@eastersealsma.org or visit the Easter Seals Boston ATRC Page.

Thursday, January 5, 2012

Night at the Museum for Families on the Spectrum

On Saturday, January 28th, from 5:30 PM - 8:30 PM, the Discovery Museum in Acton is hosting a free night for families on the Autism Spectrum. Registration is required. Contact Amy Spencer for more information or to register by calling 978-264-4200, x 28 or by e-mail at aspencer@discoverymuseums.org.