The reality of finding a job with autism

Sarah Still has Aspergers and has spent years working a variety of jobs that don't seem to fit her needs.

By Jareen Imam, CNN

Editor's note: As we wrap up Autism Awareness Month on Tuesday, visit the CNN Facebook page for a live discussion on autism and the workplace at 2:30 p.m. ET. iReporters and experts will be taking questions and sharing their experiences.

STORY HIGHLIGHTS

• Sarah Still is on the autism spectrum and has tried for years to find a job that suits her
• More organizations are specializing in placing those with autism into jobs
• Experts explain why it is difficult for those on the spectrum to find jobs on their own
• Support at work can help those on the spectrum stay in jobs longer

(CNN) -- Smiling is something 30-year-old Sarah Still constantly has to remind herself to do, especially when she is going into a job interview.

Still has Asperger's, a high-functioning form of autism. For the past 10 years, she has experienced the highs and lows of being on the autism spectrum while trying to work in professional settings.

It is not as though Still cannot get a job -- in fact, her resume is full of them, ranging from room attendant at Yellowstone National Park to receptionist at a massage parlor. It's keeping the jobs that has been the issue... more >

How do I teach sexuality to a person with ASD?

Autism Awareness Centre Inc.

*Answer:* Teaching sexuality is often a daunting task whether you are a parent or professional. When it comes to ASDs, there is a two-fold problem: physical development is often typical while cognitive and social-emotional development are delayed and some sexual behaviours may be rooted in other causes such as sensory issues, rigid patterns of behavior, or the enjoyment of negative attention. You have to be a detective and investigate the reasons why sexual behavior is being exhibited; the cause may not be what it appears to be. For example, excessive touching of the genitals may ... more »

AT-HOME FITNESS TIPS FOR CHILDREN WITH AUTISM

More than half of the nation’s children with Autism are overweight. Being overweight can cause numerous problems such as: bone and joint issues as well as cardiovascular disease and diabetes. This has influenced Suzanne M Gray, a fitness expert, to create exercise programs for individuals with autism.

Gray is the CEO of Right Fit Sport and Wellness Center in Willowbrook, IL, and has been creating fitness programs and working with individuals who have special needs for more than 30 years. She has seen how exercise improves an individuals’ motor skills, muscle tone, and socialization skills. Exercise is also beneficial in eliminating self-destructive and self- stimulating behaviors in children with Autism.

Her latest program, “Five to Stay Alive,” consists of at-home activities recommended for children with autism to help fight obesity. They include:

1. Around the Block. Create a neighborhood path for children to follow and have your child run this path a designated number of times per day. He/she could wear a pedometer to measure steps and calories and track progress.

2. Raise the Bar! You’re a Star! Start with a dowel rod and raise it over head and back down. Eventually this can be substituted for weight bars.

3. Chair Squats. This movement is required for most power moves of the lower extremities and most athletic events.

4. Push-ups. If your child is able, have them do a designated number of push- ups every day.

5. Jumping Jacks. Again, depending on where children are on the spectrum, will make a difference in how many they can do.

Chart all progress on a chart and keep track of repetition and loads. Offer incentives as motivators such as stickers or a fat-free dessert.

Kids with Autism benefit greatly from exercise. A structured routine is essential to see results. Another fitness tip is to combine music and play with exercise because it enhances the child’s sensory response while boosting independence, happiness and self-esteem. “The biggest benefit”, says Gray “is weight loss”. Be sure to check out Suzanne’s book, “101 Games and Activities for Youth with Autism”, and her DVD “Raising the Bar: Exercises for Youth and Adults with Autism”, for more information on fitness for individuals with Autism. To learn more about Suzanne Gray log on to www.right-fit.com.

Air travel made easier for children with autism

MINNEAPOLIS, Minnesota (KARE) — Travel can be stressful for anyone, but for kids with autism, crowded airports and security screenings can be downright scary.

Since the beginning of the year, Minneapolis-St. Paul International has been part in a new program to help the kids prepare for air travel.

For the Nielsen family, the already overwhelming adventure at the airport brings additional worries... more >

What in the World is Going On April 2013 Edition

April is Autism Awareness month. April 2nd marks World Autism Day, which was created by the United Nations in 2008. Autism Speaks celebrates this day with their Light It Up Blue Campaign. Check out their blog which gives daily updates as they count down until April 2nd. See how people around the world are planning to light it up blue to raise autism awareness. And speaking of Autism Speaks, they just launched their Employment Tool Kit. The creation of the kit started back in June 2012 with an employment Think Tank which captured the current state of employment for adults with autism... more »

Autism Awareness Centre Inc.

Today is World Autism Awareness Day!

Today, throughout the world, individuals will come together highlighting the needs and dreams of people living with autism. Today, all of us at the Global Autism awareness honour and respect each individual living with autism for whom they are. We celebrate and honour parents, siblings, grandparents, teachers, and other professionals who provide support and love to those living on the autism spectrum.