Results for: Autism

A new study using miniature brain models grown from the stem cells of toddlers with autism has uncovered a potential link between the severity of autism symptoms and accelerated brain growth during early development. The study, published in the journal ‘Nature,’ found that brain organoids from toddlers with autism grew significantly faster than those from toddlers without the disorder, and this excessive growth was associated with more severe social symptoms. The research also identified a gene, Ndel1, that may play a role in this accelerated growth.

Despite facing obstacles such as the COVID-19 pandemic, online learning, and teacher job action, Stephen Walcer, a Regina student diagnosed with autism, is set to graduate high school and pursue higher education in engineering. He credits his service dog and the support of his mother for helping him navigate the challenges.

Elmwood Park Zoo has recertified as a Certified Autism CenterTM, demonstrating its ongoing commitment to inclusivity and accessibility for all visitors, including those with autism and sensory sensitivities. The zoo offers various amenities and programs to enhance the experience for these individuals, such as a quiet space, sensory backpacks, and quiet events. This recertification is a testament to Elmwood Park Zoo’s dedication to providing an exceptional and inclusive experience for all guests.

The Chandler Parks and Recreation Division has achieved the prestigious Certified Autism CenterTM (CAC) designation from the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES). This certification recognizes the division’s commitment to fostering inclusive environments and offerings for individuals with autism and sensory sensitivities, along with their families. The division’s dedicated team underwent specialized autism training and an on-site evaluation to earn this certification.

The Alberta provincial ombudsman has released a report criticizing the government’s Persons with Developmental Disabilities program, which denied a 21-year-old man with autism the supports he needs. The ombudsman says the program’s eligibility rules are unfair and rely heavily on intelligence tests, which have been criticized by medical clinicians. The report recommends that the government review the program’s rules and consider Zenari’s case for reconsideration.

At age 54, Peter Mann finally received an official autism diagnosis after years of feeling different. The process was difficult and expensive, but Mann says it was worth it. He is now able to connect with others in the autism community and learn routines and coping skills that have helped him in his daily life.

A six-year-old boy with autism has been reported missing in Germany, and a large-scale search operation is underway. Arian Arnold vanished from his garden in Elm, Lower Saxony, on Monday evening, and concerned authorities are leaving no stone unturned in their efforts to locate him. With hundreds of volunteers, drones, sniffer dogs, and even a sonar boat being deployed, the search has extended to nearby woods, fields, swamps, and barns, but the young boy remains elusive.

A mother has lodged a complaint against a trampoline park after she was allegedly asked to leave for ‘double bouncing’ her autistic son. Esther Beckett, whose son cannot bounce himself and risks self-harm if not assisted, claims staff at Flip Out in Stoke approached her just 10 minutes into her session and asked her to stop. Despite explaining her son’s condition and previous visits where double bouncing was allowed in specialized sessions, she was told to stop and eventually banned from the premises. Flip Out has since acknowledged the complaint and is investigating.

An extensive search operation is underway in Germany for Arian Arnold, a six-year-old autistic boy who has been missing since Monday evening. Despite the involvement of numerous emergency services, hundreds of volunteers, and specialized equipment, Arian’s whereabouts remain unknown. The lack of verbal communication complicates the search efforts, raising concerns about his well-being in the dropping temperatures.

Patrick Guizar, a 21-year-old from Kerman, California, has been honored as the Fresno County Superintendent of Schools’ “Superintendent’s Superstar” for April. The recognition comes after Patrick received the American FFA degree, the highest degree achievable in the National FFA Organization. Patrick’s accomplishment is a testament to his hard work and determination, as he has had to overcome others’ doubts about his ability to live a normal life due to his autism diagnosis at age three. Patrick loves animals, specifically goats, and has been involved in FFA since high school. Through FFA, he has raised goats and lambs and earned several degrees, culminating in the American FFA degree. Patrick hopes his story inspires others with autism to chase their dreams, and that it reminds others that people with disabilities are capable if given the chance.