My son with autism used to wander. Actually, he used to escape first and then wander! In one particular situation I had to call the police to help me find him and, upon their arrival, it was clear that they did not understand the implications of autism on search and rescue. After my son was found (safe & sound), I realized I could have been better prepared myself.

The movie "Tropic Thunder", now being called Tropic Blunder by thousands of parents, professionals and community members that oppose the movies catch phrase, "Never go full retard", is the latest example of how our society allows the degradation those with disabilities.

My email inbox is overflowing with protests, calls for action and a boycott of the film and its maker, Dream Works, because of the catch phrase and repeated use of the r-word.

Is there more then one adult in your child's classroom? Is there ever a substitute teacher, assistant or aide?

If yes, are you certain that everyone teaches, supports and manages your child consistently throughout the day?

My son with autism (Ian) is in a 12:1:1 classroom and there are 1:1 professionals also in the class, so there are many people interacting with him.

Casting your vote in the upcoming election is one way to advocate for Autism. There are so many issues we have to consider as voters, such as the price of gas, health care and social security, that issues affecting those with disabilities (our children!) are rarely discussed let alone brought to the front and center.

Before Election Day, I encourage you all to take some time and research the candidate’s positions on disability issues and determine who you are going to vote for before going to the polls.

Last week I read an article discussing the use of restraint when working with children that have disabilities. A 12 year old boy with Asperger Syndrome had been restrained face-down on multiple occasions and now, after a hearing, litigation has begun.

Buffalo News reporter, Barbara O’Brien, poses the following questions that teacher’s face:

Every so often, usually after advocating within the public school system, I contemplate home-schooling my 12 year old son with Autism. I go through the same process, of listing the pros and cons as I see them, each time I consider taking the plunge and educating him myself. This time, I have decided to seek out your opinions and advice!

My son with Autism has come quite far overall. He has made great progress with language, academics and life skills. When it comes to having a busy social life, or a group of friends, however, I know we still have far to go. Socialization opportunities for children with autism can be difficult to find and, as our children get older, the idea of having your mom accompany you to activities is less then desirable!

It seems like, no matter the day, I am advocating on behalf of my children for something or other. Having one son with autism and another with Asperger Syndrome, I advocate for everything from services to societal change. No matter the particular situation, I know that written communication (the Paper-Trail) is critical to successfully advocating for your child with autism or special needs.

Communication is a complex skill and a typical challenge for children with autism. As a parent, understanding language acquisition is vital to helping your child developmentally progress. Once understood, it’s time to apply what you know and begin working with your child to expand their communication skills.

ABC is an acronym standing for: Antecedent, Behavior and Consequence. The ABC ideology promotes knowing what happened before your child behaved in a certain manner, the details of the incident itself and how the behavior was subsequentlyresponded to. Keep a written record for determining patterns or triggers and you’ll be better prepared to identify strategies to modify them.