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jackiemarquette's blog

The Impact of Chasing Inspiration: Individuals of all ages with ASD

There are many venues to explore where one can pursue inspiration for the purposes of contributing to the world, and making a life of well-being. This article explores ‘inspiration’ and how individuals with ASD discovered their deep ‘inspiration’ through making their art. The art of Elaine Crowder, Trent Altman, Kevin Hosseini, and students at The Beacon Day School, and other artists who have autism will be featured at The Brilliance of Autism Exhibit at Autism One 2013 conference on May 21- 26.

Five Simple Steps to Designing Effective Employment for Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders

When considering how to better equip individuals with autism spectrum disorders to attain and maintain employment, I discovered it is not mainly requirements in learning the job task, memorizing social skill scripts, giving eye contact, or attainment of independent-living skills that matter most. Unfortunately, requiring the young adult to reach success in each of these areas as a set criteria before receiving training for a job can actually jeopardize any employment outcome.

Compassion Extended to Many Victims: Newtown, Connecticut

There are many victims as the result of the unexplainable tragic violence toward the children and teachers at Sandy Hook Elementary School by Adam Lanza. I am one of millions of people who are emotionally affected by the event and in mourning. I extend compassion through prayer to the suffering parents, friends, and neighbors who lost the precious lives of children and their teachers in Newtown, Connecticut. Also, we must not forget Lanza’s mother Nancy who is also a victim. She is portrayed as a very positive mom who was focused on getting her sons what they needed and what they wanted.

Title: Are You Tuning into Messages That Reveal Gifts or Interests

This blog is #2 out of the series on identifying and using strengths, interests, and talents more fully.

These questions are especially designed for Young Adults Who Can Work Independently. The information I offer can lead you through an exploratory process to identify and use your strengths and talents. I hope you will look at this process as fun and enjoyable. Please get a notebook and mark it, Exploring My Strengths and Talents.

The Staircase to Life After High School (especially for individuals with ASD and their advocates)

Just for today what is the priority you have for your life? Can you express what ways you will continue to learn and grow as an individual?

‘Independent Living’ Living a life of One’s Own

It is exciting to read about a new federal initiative that will help individuals move from institutions to the independent living. This program will involve the Department of Housing and Urban Development and the Department of Health and Human Service, with Health care and support services coordinated through Medicaid’s “Money Follows the Person.” To read more about this initiative at http://www.disabilityscoop.com/2011/01/07/independent-living-boost/11861/

‘Independent Living’ Living a life of One’s Own

It is exciting to read about a new federal initiative that will help individuals move from institutions to the independent living. This program will involve the Department of Housing and Urban Development and the Department of Health and Human Service, with Health care and support services coordinated through Medicaid’s “Money Follows the Person.” To read more about this initiative at http://www.disabilityscoop.com/2011/01/07/independent-living-boost/11861/

Nine Ways to Enhance College Success for the Student with Autism or Related Disabilities

Going off to college can be frightening or at least uneasy for a young adult as well as parents. This event is more pronounced when the student has autism or a related disability. The fact is people with disabilities experience great difficulty entering and succeeding in the workforce and in higher education. Why is this? I believe it is because of others’ limited understanding of the capability of this group as well as inadequate supports.

The Impact of Acknowledging Challenges: Youth with Autism and Developmental Disabilities

Acknowledging your son/daughter or student’s challenges sets a powerful direction in planning, and can become a foundational building block. Consider this question: “Can acknowledging a person’s challenges really set the direction that can build upon a person’s self image and social belonging? YES, it is the first and most important step. In fact, acknowledging a person’s challenges is different from focusing on a person’s disability characteristic.

A Veteran Mom and Young Adult with Autism

A few weeks ago, at a Christmas art show I met a mom with two children, a 13-year old daughter and a 21-year old son with autism. Alice walked into Trent’s art booth and expressed her fascination with Trent’s art. I asked about her son and with enthusiasm in her voice, she spoke of how Rodney loved to draw. Alice talked about his fascination with the Chicago Bears team clothing, an athletic shoe, and the rock bands he downloads on his I’Pod. She then reluctantly talked about how her son became a ward of the state.