In 1972, the Autism Society, the nation’s oldest leading foundational autism society held the first Annual National Autistic Children’s Week as an ongoing nationwide effort to support autism awareness. Eventually, the observance developed into Autism Acceptance Month, celebrated every April. Action Toward Independence (ATI) stands with the Autism Society by spreading awareness, advocating for acceptance and supporting those in the community with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 1 in 44 children are affected by autism in the United States, which occurs in diverse racial groups and ethnicities, but is more commonly diagnosed in boys.

ATI is an Independent Living Center that provides advocacy support and services for people with disabilities. Our Children and Family Advocates work with families of children with ASD and other developmental, emotional and behavioral disabilities, helping them to navigate the social systems to gain the services and advocacy support necessary for their child’s positive growth, development and education.

You may be familiar with the term autism or ASD but don’t really know what it is. The more educated we are about it, the more inclusive a society we become, and the more people with ASD can live a fulfilling quality of life. So, what is autism?

Autism (AW-tiz-um) or ASD is a difference in the way a child’s brain develops. Children with autism may have trouble understanding the world around them. A child with autism might have trouble talking and learning the meaning of words, making friends or fitting in, dealing with changes like new foods, a substitute teacher, or having toys moved from their usual places, dealing with loud noises, bright lights, crowds or even being touched. (Kids Health, March 2019).

Autism is medically diagnosed by psychologists based on assessments and diagnostic tests.

There is no cure for autism but with treatment, everyday life can become more adaptable. Therapists, doctors and special education teachers can help children develop social skills like learning to talk, play, learning and getting along with others (Kids Health, 2019).

In addition to Educational Advocacy services, ATI provides regular Social Skills groups for ages 5-13 and Life Skills Groups for ages 13 – 31 at our main office at 309 E. Broadway in Monticello. The groups are focused on strengthening and developing appropriate social skills at home and academic settings. Topics covered include manners, positive behavior and emotions. We offer a bi-weekly Parents for Parents Support Group designed to support and empower parents and guardians raising children with disabilities.

For more information about ATI’s Children and Family Services, please visit our website at www.atitoday.org or contact the Children and Family Services Program Manager at (845) 794-4228.

Action Toward Independence (ATI) is a nonprofit organization that promotes the independence, inclusion, participation, and personal choice of individuals with disabilities. ATI advances the independent living philosophy and advocates for the legal and civil rights of individuals with disabilities.