Autism Labs

This week, we explore the challenges and triumphs of parenting a child with profound autism. From seizing imperfect opportunities to navigating the parenting "game," we highlight the strength of moms as the true MVPs and remind dads to recognize their partner’s incredible contributions. Tune in for heartfelt stories, insights, and a call to embrace the journey with gratitude. Who’s the MVP in your life? #ParentingJourney #SpecialNeedsParenting #ProfoundAutism #FamilySupport #EverydayHeroes

According to the Autistic Americans Civil Liberties Association, 85% of those with autism are unemployed. A $1 million state appropriation is helping change that: https://lnkd.in/gBEyiBpr While this doesn't really address employment for the profoundly or severely autistic, helping those that are higher functioning is a step in the right direction. Now we need funding and programs for those at the lower end of the spectrum!

As Christmas is almost here, let us not forget the millions who care for those with severe autism. A recent study indicates the incidence of autism worldwide is about 1:127, or about double what was previously estimated: https://lnkd.in/g_TNHsFp That is over 60 million people globally with autism. And according the CDC, the incidence of autism in the US among children is even higher, at about 1:36. And of those children with autism, around 26-27% are profoundly autistic. So a special thanks to the parents, siblings and all of those who add a little joy to the lives of those who are autistic, especially the severely or profoundly autistic.

Safety is a top priority when raising a child with profound autism. In this week’s episode of Autism Labs, we share a real-life story that highlights the importance of building layers of protection, from smart locks at home to school protocols. Learn how we safeguard our kids and how you can too—because when it comes to their safety, no step is too small. 💙 #AutismSafety #ParentingWithPurpose #AutismLabs

Just like moms are advised to avoid drinking alcohol during pregnancy, the same advice holds regarding marijuana during pregnancy and while breast feeding: https://lnkd.in/gky4dqHA

A big thank-you to Alison Singer and her team at The Autism Science Foundation for helping move the Autism Cares Act forward. While not all of the $1.5B in new research money will go towards those with profound autism, certainly some of it will. What is the biggest autism-related issue for you or for someone in your family that you would like new research to address?

Transforming the Blood Draw Experience for Children with Severe Autism As parents of a profoundly autistic, nonverbal son, my wife and I have faced our share of challenges—one of the toughest being annual blood draws. If your child struggles with these procedures, you’re not alone. This week, we share our journey and six game-changing tips that made all the difference: 🔹 Use numbing cream to minimize the pain at the needle site. 🔹 Choose a comfortable setting like a standard blood draw chair instead of an exam table. 🔹 Bring someone your child trusts for extra comfort and reassurance. 🔹 Distract with music and videos that your child loves. 🔹 Incorporate favorite snacks to keep them calm and happy. 🔹 Ensure a skilled professional performs the draw quickly and efficiently. With these strategies, we’ve turned a once-traumatic process into a manageable, stress-free experience. Listen to the full episode to learn more! hashtag #AutismParenting hashtag #SpecialNeedsParenting hashtag #Podcast hashtag #AutismAwareness hashtag #ParentingTips

The Profound Autism Alliance is making a difference in securing dollars for autism research for those with severe, profound or Level III autism. Their work deserves our recognition and support: https://lnkd.in/guc_4RTR

Have you ever taken any of the following? Tylenol® NyQuil®/DayQuil® Excedrin® Alka-Seltzer Plus® Mucinex® Robitussin® Goody's® These all contain Acetaminophen which has been recently linked to autism: https://lnkd.in/dHS3aYRT While I am sure research still needs to be done to validate this association, I find this just a bit concerning. Does anyone have any thoughts on this?

Can flu cause autism? According to researchers at Columbia University, the children of moms who had the flu during their pregnancy are more likely to develop autism: https://lnkd.in/gKfR3k9D