Nebo School District Parent/Educator Support Meeting Group Perfectly Prevented II Workshop

2016-04-13 21:48:03

Preregister for an incredible workshop tomorrow: Thursday, April 14th, at 7pm. 

Lifetime Cost of Autism

2016-04-13 21:41:04

Study pegs cost of services for autism's growing adult population. 

KBYU Ask Eleven Hosts Live Q&A on Autism in Utah

2016-04-03 16:38:52

Dr. Terisa Gabrielsen and Dr. Mikle South are appearing on KBYU's "Ask Eleven" April 4 at 8pm MDT to talk about and answer your questions regarding autism. For further information on how to submit questions, please check out the link! 

New Study of Autism Prevalence in Four-Year-Olds Underscores Need for Earlier Detection

2016-04-13 21:52:00

Less-severely affected children were more likely to be missed at four years of age than at eight years of age.

Mall Santa Goes the Extra Mile for Boy with Autism

2015-12-04 19:39:34

Caring Santa is providing special needs families with a more controlled and welcoming environment to visit Noerr’s Santa Photo Experience! 

The Promise and Perils of Oxytocin for Autism

2015-07-02 22:08:50

Updates us on the latest oxytocin research and why the hormone is losing its image as a simple cuddle chemical. 

Reading Program Improves Brain Connectivity in Students with Autism

2015-06-26 15:56:29

Study of “visualizing and verbalizing” reading program suggests that it improves brain function along with comprehension.

Largest-Ever Study of Autism & C-sections Suggests Shared Triggers

2015-06-26 15:37:32

Analysis of 2.7 million births suggests that cesareans don’t cause autism, but both may share underlying risk factors.

Study Finds Many Kids with Delays Need Help with Autism Symptoms

2015-06-22 11:36:26

Varying degrees of autism-related challenges seen in a third of young children with other developmental delays.

Understanding Sex/Gender Differences in Autism

2015-06-19 19:31:53

A new series of podcasts and open-access research papers on sex/gender differences in autism.

Study Links Enhanced Perception in Babies to Later Autism Symptoms

2015-06-19 08:11:47

Findings underscore autism-related strengths as well as sensitivities that can produce challenges. 

Early Intervention for Toddlers with Autism Improves Long-Term Outcomes

2015-06-16 17:59:30

Follow-up study on Early Start Denver Model therapy for toddlers shows that gains in abilities and reduced autism symptoms persist into grade school. 

Large Study on Parent Age & Autism Finds Increased Risk with Teen Moms

2015-06-16 18:00:18

Study uncovers risk with wide gaps between parent ages. 

For Kids with Autism, Supplements Often Result in Nutrient Imbalances

2015-06-16 18:00:29

Researchers find too-high of levels for some vitamins and minerals and not enough of others.

Study Links Epigenetic Changes in Mom’s DNA to Babies’ Autism Symptoms

2015-05-30 08:07:53

Changes may reflect environmental exposures and other factors that increase autism risk. 

Autism Produces Greater Behavioral Changes in Girls

2015-05-29 06:44:25

Comparisons of girls with autism to their unaffected peers may be crucial to improving understanding of the autism-related challenges girls and women face.

Arts & Autism

2015-05-18 19:01:36

Check out this expressive arts summer camp at the Scera.

Self-Care Skills Associated with Success in Adulthood

2015-05-18 16:28:10

Daily living skills prove more important than autism symptoms, language, or IQ when it comes to employment and life satisfaction.

Taking Flight for Autism

2015-05-17 20:09:40

If you're interested in having your family participate in a unique travel simulation, join Taking Flight for Autism on June 17th.  

Journal Writing Can Help Mothers Raising a Child with Autism Manage Stress

2015-05-07 17:28:33

Emotional disclosure helps mothers raising a child with autism to manage stress. 

Scouts with Autism Get Their Own Troop

2015-04-30 22:40:04

The Great Salt Lake Council created a Scout troop specifically for boys with autism in an effort to provide training and boost their self-confidence. 

Training Helps Parents Reduce Challenging Autism Behaviors

2015-04-30 20:34:30

Intensive training program teaches parents techniques that improve communication and cooperative behavior in children with autism.

Sprouts' Commitment to Autism Awareness

2015-04-27 14:56:52

Sprouts is lighting it up blue‪ #LIUB‬ for Autism Awareness Month! They are also accepting $1, $5, and $10 at the register!

Diverse Autism Mutations Lead to Different Disease Outcomes

2015-04-25 07:11:13

People with autism have a wide range of symptoms, with no two people sharing the exact type and severity of behaviors.

Brain Connections Give Clues to Sensory Problems in Autism

2015-04-24 12:14:31

Connections that carry signals between two distant brain areas are stronger in people with autism. 

11 Tips for New Autism Parents

2015-04-22 11:38:39

Great tips from a mom who has been there. 

Autism Not Linked to MMR Vaccine, Study Confirms

2015-04-21 22:29:33

No association found between MMR vaccine and autism, even among children at higher risk. 

Utah Valley University Offers New Autism Studies Minor

2015-04-20 19:57:44

Students at Utah Valley University can now minor in autism studies. 

Light It Up Blue

2015-04-02 13:23:03

Here are ways to #LIUB in an effort to spread autism awareness. 

Research Provides Insights into Severe Autism

2015-04-01 11:48:50

A new gene strongly associated with autism has been identified, shedding new light on the disorder's root causes. 

Utah Regional Ballet’s “HANSEL AND GRETEL”

2015-04-01 11:40:29

The Utah Regional Ballet is doing a free performance for families affected by autism.

Saturday, April 4th at noon at the Scera in Orem. Call (801) 899-9314 to reserve seating 

Social Skills Story on KSL

2015-03-09 07:55:39

Contact us now to enroll in the next social skills research group: autism@byu.edu

Brief Observations May Miss Autism Symptoms

2015-03-05 11:14:40

Read the BYU Press Release and Video

Even experts might miss autism signs in a brief observation. Children who have autism display high rates of typical behavior alongside atypical behavior. However, children who do not have autism also show atypical behavior at times. Even clinicians who have experience and expertise in autism may not detect differences in the atypical-typical behavior ratios in a 10- to 20-minute observation. 

Increasing Autism Expertise among Primary Care Doctors

2015-03-05 10:56:14

Read about empowering pediatric healthcare providers to take care of children with autism. 

NorthStar Alarm and ARUCC Home Security Giveaway / Essay Contest

2015-02-09 15:57:46

The deadline to enter the NorthStar Alarm and ARUCC home security system giveaway is coming up quickly! All entries are due by 11 p.m. on February 27, 2015. All families who receive services from the Autism Resources of Utah County Council (ARUCC) or a collaborating partner are eligible to enter. Download the entry form here: http://bit.ly/1Fq9jga. Pass the word on to your friends and family! Good luck!

Enter the ARUCC Essay Contest and Win a Home Security System Package

2015-01-13 18:12:39

Thank you for participating in the NorthStar and Autism Resources of Utah County Council (ARUCC) Essay Contest! This is a yearly program that provides home security systems and monitoring packages to families who may benefit. The contest is designed to link families in the community and NorthStar together to provide greater security and peace of mind for children, parents, and  caregivers.

This year, NorthStar will select three families as recipients for a home security system package valued at $1,325.00. The system utilizes the most advanced and easy-­to-­use technology on the market—including text notifications and alerts. In addition to the equipment, the families will receive free monitoring services for two years from NorthStar Alarm Services. After the two years of monitoring service commences, the equipment will remain fully functional and ready to arm. The value of the monitoring service for two years is $1,200.    

How to enter:

  • Requirements—All families who receive services from a collaborating partner of the Autism Resources of Utah County Council are invited to participate in this contest. Each family must fill out this contest form and turn it in to ARUCC by the deadline date.    
  • Deadline—Entries must be e-­mailed no later than February 27, 2015.  
  • E-mail your completed application to autismresourcesofuc@gmail.com.
  • Please put Northstar Alarm Essay Contest in the subject line of the e-­mail.  


For more information, please call Teresa at (801) 863­â€5517 or Courtney at (801) 775-7827 ext. 117.  






A u t i s m  R e s o u r c e s
NorthStar & ARUCC Essay Contest

   
1. Name (first, last):  __________________________________________    

2. ARUCC partner:  ___________________________________________    

3. Number of children in your home:  _______    

4. Where do you live (city, state):  _________________________    

5. Do you have one or more smart phones that we can program your system to?  (    ) YES  or  (    ) NO      

6. What type of phone is it? (IPhone, Android, etc.)  _____________________    

7. Who is your phone service provider?  __________________________________    

8. Would you be willing to let us interview you for press release purposes? Your name can remain anonymous.  (    ) YES  or  (    ) NO    

9. Do you have any special requests in regards to your security system?  _____________________________________________________________________________    

 

In three paragraphs or less, please tell us why your family could benefit from a home security system:  

Free Workshop on January 29th

2015-01-13 17:23:21

Practical Methods for Including Children with Special Needs in a Church Setting

 

This FREE workshop is for anyone interested in helping children with special needs in a religious setting.

Applicable to all faiths and religions. 

Thursday
January 29th, 2015
6:30 pm
Kids On The Move
475 W 260 N
Orem, UT 84057

 

Keynote Speaker:

Katie E. Steed, BYU Associate Clinical Professor
Reaching The One. Helping Members with Disabilities Access Their Religion

 

Breakout Speakers:

Blake D. Hansen, PhD, Brigham Young University
Understanding, Preventing, and Responding to Challenging Behavior in Religious Environments

Eric Karst, M.Ed.
Certified RDI Consultant
Learning to Do Our Part: Establishing Communication, Empathy, and Understanding with Families

 

FREE child care is available on a limited basis. Call 801.221.9930 ext. 100 for more information.
Plus a “Make and Take” session to create your own practical tools to take and apply!

Autism Waiver Open 11/17/14-12/7/14

2014-11-10 23:18:06

Utah has an autism waiver for Medicaid that allows families to qualify a child for autism for Medicaid (and behavior services), even if the family income does not meet the typical Medicaid criteria. An open enrollment period will be held November 17th to December 7th, 2014. During the open enrollment period we will accept applications online, by mail, or via fax. The application can be found online at http://health.utah.gov/autismwaiver. The application can be completed online or printed and completed. Should you need to have a paper copy mailed to you, please contact us as soon as possible.

Please note that even if you have previously submitted an application, you must submit another application to be eligible for this open enrollment period.

If the number of applicants exceeds the number of available openings, the enrollees will be selected through a randomized process. Waiver openings are assigned based on geographical areas within the state.

Should you have any questions please contact Sarah Chung, Autism Waiver Liaison, at 801-538-6357, or visit our website at http://health.utah.gov/autismwaiver.

Earlier Intervention: Autism Treatment for Infants

2014-09-13 10:57:01

Encouraging results from a pilot study of a 12-week, parent-delivered autism treatment for infants were announced this week.  Parents were coached by therapists to incorporate evidence-based techniques from the Early Start Denver Model of autism treatment with their infants, all of whom were already showing signs of autism in infancy.  The study was small (7 infants), so future randomized control trials are needed to confirm the effects of the treatment. Autism early identification research is increasingly focusing on the 6 month age range as the point at which changes in brain development, eye gaze, motor skills, and social communication behaviors can be detected in individuals with autism spectrum disorders. To read the original study, see Autism Treatment in the First Year of Life: A Pilot Study of Infant Start, a Parent-Implemented Intervention for Symptomatic Infants

 

Autism More Genetic Than Environmental

2014-07-22 14:43:03

A recent study suggests that autism risk is more determined by the combination of multiple common gene variations than environmental factors or random gene mutations.

New Estimates of the Cost of Autism

2014-06-23 13:29:18

Researchers estimated the lifetime cost of autism, including lost wages for parents, special education costs, residential facility costs, individual productivity loss, and medical costs to be between $1.4 million and $2.4 million in the US.

Motor Skills Focus of Early Signs of ASD

2014-06-20 14:21:41

Researchers are looking at all areas of development for the earliest signs of autism spectrum disorders in hopes of intervening as early as possible and understanding how autism affects brain development.  Early intervention can build skills that otherwise might not develop and can improve outcomes.  Dr. Rebecca Landa of the Kennedy Krieger Institute has been researching what fine and gross motor delays can tell us about early risk of autism spectrum disorder.

National Autism Legislation Under Debate

2014-06-04 22:30:27

The Combating Autism Act, which has funded training and research in autism spectrum disorders for several years, is due to be re-authorized again this year.  Rather than a united front for re-authorization, legislators and advocacy groups have differing opinions on whether the law should be re-authorized in its currenet form.  Robert Menendez (D-NJ) and MIke Enzi (R-Wyo) are leading the dissent against re-authorization of the act as is, calling for new programs and mandates instead.  Autism Speaks is the largest advocacy group in favor of re-authorization, which is backed by primarily GOP legislators.

Measles Outbreak in the US

2014-06-04 22:17:46

Measles was eliminated from the US 14 years ago, but is coming back with people suffering in several states.  Infection with the measles can come from travelers or someone in the US who has been exposed and not vaccinated.  Measles is an airborne disease that can cause loss of hearing, mental impairment or death in infants or toddlers in some cases. Since measles has been so rare, symptoms may go unrecognized.  A summary of what to look for and information about how to protect children from measles are included in the article.

Meta-analysis about GI Problems

2014-06-04 22:01:13

A new study published in Pediatrics calls for better screening of gastrointestinal (GI) problems in individuals with autism spectrum disorders, especially individuals with limited verbal abilities.  People with ASD are much more likely to have GI problems for a variety of reasons.  The article calls for more research to alleviate GI problems related to food selectivity and other feeding problems commonly experienced with autism.

New Autism Prevalence Study

2014-04-29 14:43:22

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) studies the prevalence of autism spectrum disorders, or how many people have autism, every two years.  The Autism and Developmental Disabilities Montoring (ADDM) network studies health and/or  education records in portions of up to 14 states in the US, looking at children who are 8 years old at the time of the study.  The CDC website has highlighted the 10 things that are important to know from the most recent of these studies (released in early 2014): 

"10 Things You Need To Know About CDC's Latest Report from the Autism and Developmental Disabilities Monitoring Network

The following estimates are based on information collected from the health and special education (if available*) records of children who were 8 years old and lived in areas of Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Georgia, Maryland, Missouri, New Jersey, North Carolina, Utah, and Wisconsin in 2010:

  1. About 1 in 68 children (or 14.7 per 1,000 8 year olds) were identified with ASD. It is important to remember that this estimate is based on 8-year-old children living in 11 communities. It does not represent the entire population of children in the United States.
  2. This new estimate is roughly 30% higher than the estimate for 2008 (1 in 88), roughly 60% higher than the estimate for 2006 (1 in 110), and roughly 120% higher than the estimates for 2002 and 2000 (1 in 150). We don't know what is causing this increase. Some of it may be due to the way children are identified, diagnosed, and served in their local communities, but exactly how much is unknown.
  3. The number of children identified with ASD varied widely by community, from 1 in 175 children in areas of Alabama to 1 in 45 children in areas of New Jersey.
  4. Almost half (46%) of children identified with ASD had average or above average intellectual ability (IQ greater than 85).
  5. Boys were almost 5 times more likely to be identified with ASD than girls. About 1 in 42 boys and 1 in 189 girls were identified with ASD.
  6. White children were more likely to be identified with ASD than black or Hispanic children. About 1 in 63 white children, 1 in 81 black children, and 1 in 93 Hispanic children were identified with ASD.
  7. Less than half (44%) of children identified with ASD were evaluated for developmental concerns by the time they were 3 years old.
  8. Most children identified with ASD were not diagnosed until after age 4, even though children can be diagnosed as early as age 2.
  9. Black and Hispanic children identified with ASD were more likely than white children to have intellectual disability. A previous studyExternal Web Site Icon has shown that children identified with ASD and intellectual disability have a greater number of ASD symptoms and a younger age at first diagnosis. Despite the greater burden of co-occurring intellectual disability among black and Hispanic children with ASD, these new data show that there was no difference among racial and ethnic groups in the age at which children were first diagnosed.
  10. About 80% of children identified with ASD either received special education services for autism at school or had an ASD diagnosis from a clinician. This means that the remaining 20% of children identified with ASD had symptoms of ASD documented in their records, but had not yet been classified as having ASD by a community professional in a school or clinic."

Medicaid Autism Waiver Program Open Enrollment May 4, 2014

2014-04-29 15:29:23

The Department of Health is planning an open enrollment period for the Medicaid Autism Waiver Program.  The Department will be accepting applications to fill approximately 35 openings.  From May 4, 2014 to May 18, 2014, interested families can apply online at http://health.utah.gov/autismwaiver or by mail or fax. (Printable copies of the application will be made available on the website). We are hoping you will again assist us in spreading this update throughout your network(s).  Feel free to disseminate the attached documents to reach all of your contacts who may be interested in the open enrollment period.
 
Please remind interested individuals that children currently enrolled in traditional Medicaid will not be automatically eligible for the program and will need to apply. Children currently participating in the Medicaid Autism Waiver Program will not need to reapply.
 
At the conclusion of the open enrollment period, if more than 35 applications are received, random selections will be made based upon geographical area, with openings allocated according to population figures from the 2010 Census. The Department of Health will be making contact with those selected during the week of May 26th. Individuals are not selected on a "first come, first served" basis, so please encourage anyone who may be able to benefit from the program to apply at any time during the open enrollment period.
 
In order to be eligible for the program, additional medical documents will be requested to confirm the presence of an Autism Spectrum Disorder diagnosis. For examples of the types of documented observations that will be required, please refer to the website. 
 
Thank you again for all of your assistance and support.
 
Regards,
 
Josip Ambrenac
HCBS Waiver Administration Manager
BACBS/DMHF
Utah Department of Health

More States Moving Forward with Autism Insurance Reform Legislation

2014-04-28 13:30:00

Utah Autism insurance reform bill introduced.

Scientists Getting Closer to Earliest Signs of Autism

2014-04-28 15:20:53

Eyetracking may be able to identify early infant signs of autism.

Autism Screening Just Got Better

2014-04-28 13:31:16

The MCHAT autism screening tool was updated Dec. 2013 for more precise assessment.