NEWS

Children and young adults with low-functioning or severe autism experience intense challenges. Many individuals with severe autism suffer from the following: Cognitive impairment Sensory sensitivities Social challenges Communication difficulties Behaviors such as self-injury, aggression, spinning, rocking, or flapping Successfully care for your loved one with severe autism, and improve his or her quality of life […]

“How will my child learn?” “Will I have to send her to a special school?” “His situation is so different from everyone else’s; how will anyone accommodate him?” These are common concerns of parents with an autistic child. Autism, or Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), describes children with difficulties communicating, engaging in social situations or responding […]

Formally known as Autism Spectrum Disorder, or ASD, the condition describes a spectrum of developmental disabilities, in which people struggle with speech, interpersonal relations, emotions, and more. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 1 in 59 children born in the U.S. have ASD, and boys are four times more likely to […]

Research shows that making music can create changes in the human brain, especially strengthening connections between the auditory and motor regions. In addition to the potential benefits music can provide a child with autism in speech and academic learning, Villa volunteer Lydia Heitman shows it’s just plain fun! For three summers, Lydia has brought joy […]

Has your child been diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), or does he or she exhibit symptoms of autism? Before seeking autism-specific assistance, make sure the diagnosis is correct. You may learn that your child has Social (Pragmatic) Communication Disorder (SCD). Recently added to the most current, fifth-edition of the DSM (Diagnosis and Statistical Manual […]

According to the CDC, autism affects one in 59 children. Many children receive a diagnosis when they’re young, but you may not notice unusual behavior or question if your child has Asperger’s syndrome until your child becomes a teenager. Learn the signs of Asperger’s and what steps you can take if your teen has the […]

James has lived all over the country as part of a military family. He also has autism. His family found St. Joseph’s Villa’s Center for Autism when his public school recommended private placement. Find out how life for James and his family has changed for the better in this video with his mother, Alicia.

For people with autism and their families, transitioning from school to a career can be challenging. You may feel uncertain about which careers will be a good fit or wonder how to turn interests into income. Several practical tips help people with autism find a career that utilizes their interests, talents, and skills. Discover Your […]

All children, regardless of ability, have the right to receive a free education in the least restrictive environment, according to the U.S. Department of Education. What does this mean for kids with autism? When possible, they may transition from an autism school to a mainstream school for all or part of the day. This transition […]

Autism affects every child in unique ways, which means each child with autism has different educational needs. Traditional public and private schools, cyber and charter schools, and schools for autism all provide educational opportunities, but which option is best for your child? Comparing Traditional Schools and Autism Schools With the right education, your child can […]