Autism Weekly

ABS Kids

Autism Weekly is a podcast that discusses Autism news, current events, and inclusion. Each week we welcome a guest to the program to share their unique perspective and expertise as it relates to the fascinating world of Autism. We welcome all feedback. Please email podcast@abskids.com. read less
Kids & FamilyKids & Family

Episodes

Precision Teaching: The Learner Is Always Right with Jared Van #162
Mar 15 2024
Precision Teaching: The Learner Is Always Right with Jared Van #162
This week, we are joined by Jarad Van, a Ph.D. student at The Pennsylvania State University, specializing in Special Education. With a background in behavior analysis and extensive experience working with autistic children, Jarad brings valuable insights into Precision Teaching. Join us as we discuss the benefits and future potential of precision teaching for children with autism and their families. Resources Websites: Celeration.org https://www.octavetraining.com   Books:  The precision teaching book - https://greatnessachieved.com/products/book-1 Weaving love and science into educational practice - https://greatnessachieved.com/collections/books/products/weaving-love-and-science-into-educational-practice   Companies/businesses Agile Instruction and Management Solutions - http://www.aimsinstruction.com  Fit learning (Education improvement centers like sylvan or kumon but with PT) - https://fitlearners.com Morningside academy (School that utilizes PT in Seattle, Washington) - https://morningsideacademy.org Performance thinking (PT influenced OBM) -  https://www.sixboxes.com TeamABA (Sports performance improvement with PT) - https://teamaballc.com   ................................................................ Autism weekly is now found on all of the major listening apps including apple podcasts, google podcasts, stitcher, Spotify, amazon music, and more. Subscribe to be notified when we post a new podcast. Autism weekly is produced by ABS Kids. ABS Kids is proud to provide diagnostic assessments and ABA therapy to children with developmental delays like Autism Spectrum Disorder. You can learn more about ABS Kids and the Autism Weekly podcast by visiting abskids.com.
The Importance of Diversity & Cultural Representation in ABA with Bruce Tinor and Jeron Trotman #161
Mar 8 2024
The Importance of Diversity & Cultural Representation in ABA with Bruce Tinor and Jeron Trotman #161
This week, we are joined by Dr. Bruce Tinor, Vice President at Black Men in Behavior Analysis (BMBA), and Principal at CCIU's Child and Career Development Center since July 2023. Joining him is Jeron Trotman, a Board Certified Behavior Analyst from Atlanta, GA. Jeron is not only a visionary and founder but also the president of Black Men in Behavior Analysis (BMBA), an organization dedicated to black men in ABA. Together, they’ll be discussing applied behavior analysis, staff training, and curriculum development. Download to learn more!  Resources BMBA – Black Men In Behavior Analysis (bmbanetwork.org) Jeron BMBA Email: president@bmbanetwork.orgBMBA  General Email: info@bmbanetwork.org LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/jeron-trotman-644b1b69 Bruce BMBA Email: vicepresident@bmbanetwork.orgLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-bruce-tinor-bcba-lbs-56126810b/ ................................................................ Autism weekly is now found on all of the major listening apps including apple podcasts, google podcasts, stitcher, Spotify, amazon music, and more. Subscribe to be notified when we post a new podcast. Autism weekly is produced by ABS Kids. ABS Kids is proud to provide diagnostic assessments and ABA therapy to children with developmental delays like Autism Spectrum Disorder. You can learn more about ABS Kids and the Autism Weekly podcast by visiting abskids.com.
Jumpstart the Journey: Bridging Autism Care Gaps | with Carrie S. Woodward #158
Feb 16 2024
Jumpstart the Journey: Bridging Autism Care Gaps | with Carrie S. Woodward #158
This week, we are joined by Carrie Woodward, a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst and the brilliant mind behind Jumpstart the Journey. With over two decades of experience, Carrie's journey into autism began at Pepperdine University in 2002, igniting a lifelong passion for helping families navigate the complexities of autism spectrum disorders. By combining scientific expertise with empathetic communication, Carrie provides parents with practical strategies to empower them during the critical waiting period for professional help. Join us as we explore her journey and the transformative impact of her work. Download latest episode! Resources: Autism Jumpstart website: Autism Jumpstart | Early Intervention Strategies You Can Implement Now Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/autismjumpstart/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/autismjumpstart Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@autismjumpstart Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@autismjumpstart   ................................................................ Autism weekly is now found on all of the major listening apps including apple podcasts, google podcasts, stitcher, Spotify, amazon music, and more. Subscribe to be notified when we post a new podcast. Autism weekly is produced by ABS Kids. ABS Kids is proud to provide diagnostic assessments and ABA therapy to children with developmental delays like Autism Spectrum Disorder. You can learn more about ABS Kids and the Autism Weekly podcast by visiting abskids.com.
AI and Eye Signals Revolutionize Diagnosis | with Paul Constable #157
Feb 9 2024
AI and Eye Signals Revolutionize Diagnosis | with Paul Constable #157
Welcome to the latest episode of the Autism Weekly Podcast. This week, our special guest is Paul Constable, an optometrist, autism researcher, and a father with a personal journey. From coping with his son's autism diagnosis to breaking new grounds in autism research, Paul's life has been an unexpected journey full of inspiring perseverance and groundbreaking work. Paul's pioneering research primarily focuses on exploring the potential of retina signals in autism diagnosis. He has utilized eye signals and artificial intelligence to develop more accurate and faster diagnostic processes. This episode dives deep into his fascinating work, exploring the potential of the retina, an extension of the brain, as a source of tangible physiological markers. Listen to his personal account of raising a son with autism and his ground-breaking strategies for testing children with poor communication skills. In this episode, we shed a light on the hopeful future of autism diagnostics, the potential treatment implications, and the groundbreaking research that links personal experiences with professional passion. Discover the potential of using an electroretinogram (ERG) in investigating Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) and Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Paul's research has found distinctive retinal signals in children with ASD vs. ADHD, and unique patterns in children diagnosed with both conditions. His work is guiding the development of a device that could help parents, teachers, and clinicians monitor and manage these conditions more efficiently. The episode closes with an examination of the ethical and practical implications of artificial intelligence in diagnosing ASD, as well as resources available for those interested in following this transformative work. Tune into this compelling episode for a look into the future of autism diagnosis and treatment. Resources: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/feed/ Instagram: tlse33 My work webpage is: https://researchnow.flinders.edu.au/en/persons/paul-constable-2 retinalbiomarkers | retinal biomarker research – join the mailing list for updates or to register for future trials – Main sites would be Connecticut, London and Adelaide Fernando’s webpage: https://people.unisa.edu.au/Fernando.Marmolejo-Ramos His twitter/X handle is: https://twitter.com/i/flow/login?redirect_after_login=%2Fmarmolejo_ramos ................................................................ Autism weekly is now found on all of the major listening apps including apple podcasts, google podcasts, stitcher, Spotify, amazon music, and more. Subscribe to be notified when we post a new podcast. Autism weekly is produced by ABS Kids. ABS Kids is proud to provide diagnostic assessments and ABA therapy to children with developmental delays like Autism Spectrum Disorder. You can learn more about ABS Kids and the Autism Weekly podcast by visiting abskids.com.
Navigating Schools for Autistic Children with ABA Therapy | with Matthew Wappett #156
Jan 26 2024
Navigating Schools for Autistic Children with ABA Therapy | with Matthew Wappett #156
In this insightful episode of Autism Weekly, host Jeff Skibitsky and esteemed guest Dr. Matthew Wappet, Executive Director of Utah State University's Institute for Disability Research, engage in an illuminating discussion about reimagining the future of education to be more inclusive for individuals with disabilities. With a focus on autism, they critically discuss the current challenges and possibilities of special education. The episode highlights the pressing issues of incorrect societal attitudes, inadequate policies, and funding restrictions that often hinder the progress of inclusive education. It also examines contested topics such as the Individualized Education Plan (IEP), parental rights and responsibilities, and the frustrating legal battles parents often face to secure an adequate education for their children. Notably, the dialogue emphasizes the evolution and current state of inclusive teacher preparation programs, differing definitions of inclusion across districts, and the crucial need to allocate resources correctly to foster inclusive environment in schools. Delving deeper, the episode underscores the importance of inclusive education not just as a policy, but as a pivotal strategy for promoting social cohesion and an open-minded society. It also discusses the significant role of parental advocacy in shaping their children's experiences and the substantial benefits of inclusive practices for all students. In conclusion, the episode urges for stronger support, increased awareness, and widespread acceptance of inclusive education, envisioning a future that embraces diversity and recognizes every individual's potential. Resources:  Learn more about Dr. Wappett: https://www.matthewwappett.com/about learn more about laughter yoga on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@matthewwappett ................................................................ Autism weekly is now found on all of the major listening apps including apple podcasts, google podcasts, stitcher, Spotify, amazon music, and more. Subscribe to be notified when we post a new podcast. Autism weekly is produced by ABS Kids. ABS Kids is proud to provide diagnostic assessments and ABA therapy to children with developmental delays like Autism Spectrum Disorder. You can learn more about ABS Kids and the Autism Weekly podcast by visiting abskids.com.
Autism Advocacy: A Conversation with Dr. Eric Larsson on Research and ABA Therapy
Jan 19 2024
Autism Advocacy: A Conversation with Dr. Eric Larsson on Research and ABA Therapy
This week, we are joined by Dr. Eric Larsson, who is the Executive Director of Clinical Services at the Lovaas Institute Midwest, a Licensed Psychologist, and a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst-Doctoral. With extensive experience in autism intervention, he's currently researching high-intensity Early Intensive Behavioral Intervention (EIBI) programs. Dr. Eric Larsson, President of the Association for Science in Autism Treatment, actively advocates for increased ABA service access. Join us for a discussion on the impact of research and advocacy in ABA therapy for autism. Download latest episode to learn more!  Resources  ssociation for Science in Autism Treatment  www.asatonline.org  Association of Professional Behavior Analysts  www.apbahome.net  Behavior Analyst Certification Board  www.bacb.com  Association for Behavior Analysis International  www.abainternational.org  Council of Autism Service Providers  www.casproviders.org  California Association for Behavior Analysis  www.calaba.org  Massachusetts Professionals in Behavior Analysis  www.babat.org  Society of Clinical Child and Adolescent Psychology  www.effectivechildtherapy.org  Cambridge Center for Behavioral Studies  www.behavior.org  Autism Legal Resource Center  www.autismlegalresourcecenter.com  Insurance Resource Center for Autism and Behavioral Health  www.massairc.org National Council on Severe Autism  www.ncsautism.org  The Arc  www.thearc.org  Autism Speaks  www.autismspeaks.org  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Autism weekly is now found on all of the major listening apps including apple podcasts, google podcasts, stitcher, Spotify, amazon music, and more. Subscribe to be notified when we post a new podcast. Autism weekly is produced by ABS Kids. ABS Kids is proud to provide diagnostic assessments and ABA therapy to children with developmental delays like Autism Spectrum Disorder. You can learn more about ABS Kids and the Autism Weekly podcast by visiting abskids.com.
A Compassionate Approach to Affirming Therapy | with Sam Farmer #153
Jan 5 2024
A Compassionate Approach to Affirming Therapy | with Sam Farmer #153
This week, we welcome autism advocate and author Sam Farmer BACK to the podcast for another appearance to talk to us about his latest published article “An Autistic’s Vision for Neurodiversity-Affirming Therapy”. This topic is important because it provides invaluable insights from lived experience, fostering inclusivity, and offering practical strategies to enhance therapeutic practices for neurodivergent individuals. Download to learn more!  Resources JRc/electric shock article: https://medium.com/@samijam669/electric-shock-treatment-today-in-america-on-people-with-developmental-disabilities-ed4fb8d72b05   JRC/electric shock author talk video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SLKCcXVPoig   Article about the importance of using identity-first language (The Hill embedded a video into this article which is definitely worth checking out): https://thehill.com/changing-america/opinion/580597-autistic-person-and-person-with-autism-are-not-one-and-the-same/ - perhaps this article will be relevant to a future "Neurodiversity-Affirming Therapy Part 2" podcast. An Autism Son's Tribute to His Mother https://www.aane.org/spectrum-sons-tribute-mom/ Visit Sam Farmer's Website https://www.samfarmerauthor.com/ Buy A Long Walk Down a Winding Road on Amazon https://www.amazon.com/Long-Walk-Down-Winding-Road/dp/173337230X/  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Autism weekly is now found on all of the major listening apps including apple podcasts, google podcasts, stitcher, Spotify, amazon music, and more. Subscribe to be notified when we post a new podcast. Autism weekly is produced by ABS Kids. ABS Kids is proud to provide diagnostic assessments and ABA therapy to children with developmental delays like Autism Spectrum Disorder. You can learn more about ABS Kids and the Autism Weekly podcast by visiting abskids.com.
Neurodiversity with The Distracted Autistic| with Katie York #152
Dec 15 2023
Neurodiversity with The Distracted Autistic| with Katie York #152
This week, we are joined by Katie York, also known as The Distracted Autistic. Katie is also the founder of Harford County Neurodivergents, a community group located in Maryland. Katie is also an educator, student, advocate, and community organizer with nearly fifteen years’ experience in community college workforce training programs. Katie's autistic voice will help us explore the diverse interests of the neurodivergent community. Download to learn more!  Resources: "I Will Die On This Hill: Autistic Adults, Autism Parents, and the Children Who Deserve a Better World" By Meghan Ashburn & Jules Edwards https://us.jkp.com/products/i-will-die-on-this-hill "Sincerely, Your Autistic Child: What People on the Autism Spectrum Wish Their Parents Knew About Growing Up, Acceptance, and Identity" Editors: Emily Paige Ballou, Sharon DaVanport, Morénike Giwa Onaiwu   Author: Autistic Women and Nonbinary Network https://www.beacon.org/Sincerely-Your-Autistic-Child-P1685.aspx “The Autism and Neurodiversity Self Advocacy Handbook: Developing the Skills to Determine Your Own Future” By Barb Cook & Yenn Purkis https://us.jkp.com/products/the-autism-and-neurodiversity-self-advocacy-handbook Some US specific advocacy resources: “Civic Engagement Toolbox For Self-Advocates” from the Autistic Self Advocacy Network https://autisticadvocacy.org/policy/toolkits/civic/ “How To Call Your Representatives When You Have Social Anxiety” Instagram comic https://www.instagram.com/p/CA_vVqEBJI-/?img_index=11 Partners in Policymaking Free Online Course: https://partnersonlinecourses.com/ Folks can also see if their local developmental disabilities council offers a state-specific version of this training. For example, I am currently a partner in Maryland’s program: http://www.thearcmd.org/partners/ Center for Parent Information and Resources There are nearly 100 Parent Training and Information Centers (PTIs) and Community Parent Resource Centers (CPRCs) in the US and Territories. https://www.parentcenterhub.org/find-your-center/ SECAC/SEAC The federal Individuals with Disabilities Education ACT (IDEA) requires that each State operate a “state advisory panel.” https://sites.ed.gov/idea/regs/b/b/300.167 More info: https://www.wrightslaw.com/heath/state.advisory.panel.htm Maryland’s is called the “Special Education Citizen’s Advisory Committee” (SECAC) and each county school system has their own, in addition to the statewide SECAC. https://marylandpublicschools.org/programs/Pages/Special-Education/sesac/index.aspx Refer to your states “Special Education Advisory Council” or SEAC LGBTQ+ &/or BIPOC Autism Related Resources The Trevor Project The Trevor Project is the leading suicide prevention and crisis intervention nonprofit organization for LGBTQ+ young people. They provide information & support to LGBTQ 
young people 24/7, all year round. https://www.thetrevorproject.org/ Trans Life Line Trans Lifeline is a grassroots hotline and microgrants 501(c)(3) non-profit organization offering direct emotional and financial support to trans people in crisis – for the trans community, by the trans community. https://translifeline.org/ Autistic Women & Nonbinary Network AWN Welcome Packets for newly diagnosed adults & parents of newly diagnosed children https://awnnetwork.org/resource-library/ Association for Autism and Neurodiversity AANE has a number of free and pay programs for families and adults. Two of note: Free Online Gender Identity Support Group for Adults https://aane.org/events/?_event_type=support-groups&_identity_post=lgbtq-plus&_price=free-2 Free Online Support Group for BIPOC Adults https://aane.org/events/?_event_type=support-groups&_identity_post=bipoc&_price=free-2 Color of Autism Foundation Non-Profit 501(c)3 organization committed to educating and assisting African American families with Autistic children https://thecolorofautism.org/ Brown on the Spectrum About Us: To provide information, support, and resources to families and advocates of brown children on the Autism Spectrum https://www.facebook.com/brwnonthespctrm/ ................................................................ Autism weekly is now found on all of the major listening apps including apple podcasts, google podcasts, stitcher, Spotify, amazon music, and more. Subscribe to be notified when we post a new podcast. Autism weekly is produced by ABS Kids. ABS Kids is proud to provide diagnostic assessments and ABA therapy to children with developmental delays like Autism Spectrum Disorder. You can learn more about ABS Kids and the Autism Weekly podcast by visiting abskids.com.
Profound Autism: Advocacy, Treatment, and a Closer Look at ASF’s Impact| with Judith Ursitti #150
Dec 1 2023
Profound Autism: Advocacy, Treatment, and a Closer Look at ASF’s Impact| with Judith Ursitti #150
This week, we are joined by Judith Ursitti who is the Vice President of Government Affairs for CASP, the Council of Autism Service Providers. Formerly a CPA, Judith transitioned into autism advocacy when her son, Jack, was diagnosed at age 2. With over a decade of experience, she's been a driving force behind autism-related legislation in numerous states. Judith's accolades include the Margaret Bauman, MD Award and the Autism Advocacy in Action Award. Today, we'll discuss profound autism, advocacy, and treatment considerations, spotlighting the impactful work of the Autism Science Foundation. Download episode to learn more!! Resources  Council of Autism Service Providers | CASP (casproviders.org) (26) Judith Ursitti, CPA | LinkedIn https://twitter.com/CASProviders Council of Autism Service Providers - CASP | Boston MA | Facebook The Council of Autism Service Providers (@casproviders) • Instagram photos and videos ................................................................ Autism weekly is now found on all of the major listening apps including apple podcasts, google podcasts, stitcher, Spotify, amazon music, and more. Subscribe to be notified when we post a new podcast. Autism weekly is produced by ABS Kids. ABS Kids is proud to provide diagnostic assessments and ABA therapy to children with developmental delays like Autism Spectrum Disorder. You can learn more about ABS Kids and the Autism Weekly podcast by visiting abskids.com.
Using Yoga to Unlock Communication in Kids with Autism | Kim Hughes and Amy Robert #145
Oct 13 2023
Using Yoga to Unlock Communication in Kids with Autism | Kim Hughes and Amy Robert #145
This week, we are joined by the dynamic duo Kim Hughes and Amy Roberts who are ASHA certified Speech-Language Pathologists. Kim brings 23 years of experience, specializing in children with language disorders, ADHD, ASD, and Dyslexia. Amy, with nearly two decades in the field, focuses on articulation disorders and loves weaving yoga concepts into her sessions. They are both about incorporating movement, play, yoga, and sensory activities into therapy, achieving remarkable results. They have been practicing yoga for many years and have both received their 200-hour yoga teacher training certifications. In today’s episode we will discuss the benefits of using yoga to improve communication skills in children with autism. Download to learn more! Resources: About Us (talkyogaslp.com) "Yoga Therapy for Children with Autism and Special Needs" Louise Goldberg"The Polyvagal Theory in Therapy" Deb DanaYoga Therapy for Every Special Child: Meeting Needs in a Natural Setting Nancy Williams . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Autism weekly is now found on all of the major listening apps including apple podcasts, google podcasts, stitcher, Spotify, amazon music, and more. Subscribe to be notified when we post a new podcast. Autism weekly is produced by ABS Kids. ABS Kids is proud to provide diagnostic assessments and ABA therapy to children with developmental delays like Autism Spectrum Disorder. You can learn more about ABS and the Autism Weekly podcast by visiting abskids.com.
Global Connections: Angelica Gilmore’s Journey in ABA and Autism Advocacy #144
Oct 6 2023
Global Connections: Angelica Gilmore’s Journey in ABA and Autism Advocacy #144
This week, we are joined by Angelica Gilmore, a BCBA at ABS Kids from Southern California with a fascinating journey. She holds a BA in Anthropology from CSU Channel Islands and a Master's degree in ABA from National University. With nearly 5 years of experience in the field and 2 years as a BCBA, Angelica is passionate about making a positive impact in the world, particularly within the autistic community. Her dedication and love for this cause have led her to embark on incredible volunteer work with the Global Autism Project in India, specifically in Delhi and Chandigarh. Today, we'll delve into her inspiring journey, her experiences working with autistic individuals internationally, and the valuable insights she's gained from her work. Listen to this inspirational discussion now! Resources LinkedIn: Angelica Gilmore | LinkedIn Learn more about the Global Autism Project: globalautismproject.org . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Autism weekly is now found on all of the major listening apps including apple podcasts, google podcasts, stitcher, Spotify, amazon music, and more. Subscribe to be notified when we post a new podcast. Autism weekly is produced by ABS Kids. ABS Kids is proud to provide diagnostic assessments and ABA therapy to children with developmental delays like Autism Spectrum Disorder. You can learn more about ABS and the Autism Weekly podcast by visiting abskids.com.
Neurodiversity-Affirming Approaches to Addressing Auditory Processing Difficulties | With Vanessa Rentschler #143
Sep 29 2023
Neurodiversity-Affirming Approaches to Addressing Auditory Processing Difficulties | With Vanessa Rentschler #143
This week, we are joined by Dr. Vanessa Rentschler, an audiology expert from Portland, Oregon, with a wealth of experience and a Doctor of Audiology Degree from Salus University. Dr. Rentschler specializes in improving hearing and listening skills through direct auditory training. Today, she'll discuss neurodiversity-affirming assessment and treatment for auditory processing difficulties. We'll explore how auditory struggles, whether due to hearing loss, head injuries, or neurodivergence, can impact communication and learning. Listen to learn more! Resources: Sound Sensitivity - YouTube Auditory Assessment: Diagnostic auditory processing test protocols (adapted for individual needs) guide differential diagnosis and treatment recommendations. Functional listening assessments can effectively inform school/employment accommodation recommendations. Comprehensive consulting on both clinical services and educational advocacy can help individuals and families navigate systems and obtain appropriate support.  Auditory Remediation: Brainstem pathways involved in processing differences between the ears can be effectively trained with evidence-based auditory training tasks. Synchronized and balanced listening with both ears is a pre-requisite function for filtering out noise from speech, among other auditory functions (like localization). Explicit training on speech sounds and sensorimotor timing is also effective in reducing listening effort and improving understanding. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Autism weekly is now found on all of the major listening apps including apple podcasts, google podcasts, stitcher, Spotify, amazon music, and more. Subscribe to be notified when we post a new podcast. Autism weekly is produced by ABS Kids. ABS Kids is proud to provide diagnostic assessments and ABA therapy to children with developmental delays like Autism Spectrum Disorder. You can learn more about ABS and the Autism Weekly podcast by visiting abskids.com.