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 Through the Looking Glass

We trawl the world’s journals so you don’t have to:

Siblings as agents of socialisation (New Directions for Child and Adolescent Development).

Serotonin: New Aspects of its Functions in the Brain (The International Journal of Neuropsychopharmacology). This issue is free to access.

Word learning and lexical development across the lifespan (Philosophical Transactions of the Royal Society B). Like all Royal Society journals, this issue is free to access until the end of Feb, in celebration of their 350th anniversary.

Rationality and emotions (Philosophical Transactions of the Royal Society B). Like all Royal Society journals, this issue is free to access until the end of Feb, in celebration of their 350th anniversary.

Children and research: ‘voice’, agency and intergenerational relationships (Children and Society). 

Source:  http://bps-research-digest.blogspot.com/2010/01/special-issue-spotter.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+BpsResearchDigest+%28BPS+Research+Digest%29



 

Temple Grandin

January 08, 2010 07:40:57 GMT

Diagnosed with autism at an early age, Temple Grandin was home-schooled before she made a breakthrough in science at the age of 18 and went on to claim her PhD.

Innovator, author, activist and autistic “” is portrayed in the new HBO’s original movie made for television. steps into the role of an expert in animal science who suffers autism in her early age and continues to have anxiety up until she graduated PhD from University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.

Grandin, as depicted in the film, is one of the leading speakers on autism, whose unique experience with the disorder led her to become one of the top scientists in humane livestock handling. The movie will be played for the first time on television February 6.

Read in Full/View Trailer:  http://www.aceshowbiz.com/news/view/00029972.html



 

Article Date: 08 Jan 2010 – 2:00 PST

A new thought-operated computer system which can reduce the symptoms of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in children will be rolled out across the UK this month.

Professor Karen Pine at the University of Hertfordshire’s School of Psychology and assistant Farjana Nasrin investigated the effects of EEG (Electroencephalography) biofeedback, a learning strategy that detects brain waves, on ten children with an attention deficit from Hertfordshire schools.

They used a system called Play Attention, supplied by not-for-profit community interest company, Games for Life, three times a week for twelve weeks.

The system involves the child playing a fun educational computer game whilst wearing a helmet similar to a bicycle helmet. The helmet picks up their brain activity in the form of EEG waves related to attention. As long as the child concentrates they control the games, but as soon as their attention waivers the game stops.

The researchers found at the end of the study that the children’s impulsive behaviour was reduced, compared to a control group who had not used the system.

“Children with a diagnosis of ADHD find it hard to control their impulses and inhibit inappropriate behaviour,” said Professor Pine, “This can lead to educational and behavioural difficulties. The Play Attention method may prevent long-term problems by helping the children to be less impulsive and more self-controlled.”

Professor Pine and Dr Rob Sharp a senior specialist educational psychologist are continuing to work on futuristic projects with Ian Glasscock, Managing Director of Games for Life. A means of assessing learning in children with severe communication and physical difficulties by a thought-controlled computer game method is likely to have considerable potential for these children who cannot operate a computer manually.

“Attention-related difficulties including ADHD affects many children, young people and adults and has a significant impact on their lives,” said Mr Glasscock. “Mind-controlled educational computer games technology is the only intervention shown to reduce the core symptoms of ADHD, historically medication may have been prescribed for the child.”

Games for Life plans to roll out this new system across the UK this month.

Source: Hertfordshire University

http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/175410.php



 Neuschwanstein Castle, Germany

HEADLINES


“Burnley park murder worst detective has seen in 23 year career”:

http://www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk/news/4816929.Burnley_park_murder_worst_detective_has_seen_in_23_year_career/?ref=rss


“Murder conviction against mother in drowning of autistic daughter overturned”:

http://www.paherald.sk.ca/News/Justice/2009-12-24/article-304702/Murder-conviction-against-mother-in-drowning-of-autistic-daughter-overturned/1


“Five-year-old found alone on Forsythe”:

http://www.thenewsstar.com/article/20091228/NEWS01/912280313


“Man allegedly shot boy with pellet gun”:

http://www.fox10tv.com/dpp/news/crime/man-allegedly-shot-boy-with-pellet-gun


“Disabled man near death after co-workers restrained him?”:

http://www.startribune.com/local/west/80761817.html?elr=KArks7c3E7_V_kDaycUHc3E7_V_nDaycUiD3aPc:_Yyc:aULPQL7PQLanchO7DiUr


“Woman’s son on life support after being restrained”:

http://wcco.com/local/mentally.disabled.restrained.2.1407486.html


“Secret film uncovers ‘disabled hate crime’ in Wales”:

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/wales/8437523.stm


“Lotto funding for study into autism hate crime”:

http://www.yourthanet.co.uk/kent-news/Lotto-funding-for-study-into-autism-hate-crime–newsinkent31387.aspx?news=local


India “Centre to bring amendments in legislation for disabled”:

http://www.zeenews.com/news592993.html


“Gary McKinnon Updates”:

http://aspie-editorial.blog-city.com/gary_mckinnon_updates_new_hope_on_extradition.htm


“Hacker pleads guilty in Mass. to fraud case”:

http://www.philly.com/philly/business/technology/20091229_ap_hackerpleadsguiltyinmasstofraudcase.html


“With new technologies, do blind people lose more than they gain?”:

http://www.nytimes.com/2010/01/03/magazine/03Braille-t.html?ref=health

HEALTH & RESEARCH


“No evidence of digestive problems for autistic children”:

http://www.redorbit.com/news/health/1804319/no_evidence_of_digestive_problems_for_autistic_children/index.html?source=r_health


“New standard for Autism Spectrum Disorders”:

http://psychcentral.com/news/2010/01/05/new-standard-for-autism-spectrum-disorders/10549.html


“A uniform method to interpret Autism Spectrum Disorders is defined at BGU”:

http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/175168.php


Pediatrics “Evaluation, Diagnosis, and Treatment of Gastrointestinal Disorders in Individuals with ASDs: A Consensus Report”:

Click here for entire report in a PDF file from the American Academy of Pediatrics.

The online version of this article, along with updated information and services: http://www.pediatrics.org/cgi/content/full/125/Supplement_1/S1


“Before or after birth, gene linked to mental health has different effects”:

http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/175144.php


“Autism may cluster among highly educated”:

http://news.health.com/2010/01/05/autism-may-cluster-among-highly-educated/


“Scientists discover a controller of brain circuitry”:

http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/174920.php


“Five key facts every parent should know about MMR”:

http://www.guardian.co.uk/mmr-nhs/mmr-five-key-facts


“New Polish study provides further evidence that MMR jab is not associated with an increased risk of autism”:

http://www.awares.org/pkgs/news/news.asp?showItemID=1021&board=&bbcode=&profileCode=&section=

http://www.theprovince.com/health/Another+study+finds+autism+link/2408084/story.html


“Autism and Medication: the good news vs. side effects”:

http://www.examiner.com/x-26516-SF-Autism–Parenting-Examiner~y2010m1d5-Autism-and-Medication-the-good-news-vs-side-effects


“Without chickenpox shot, kids’ risk rises ninefold”:

http://www.wdbj7.com/Global/story.asp?S=11769917


Spotlight on Attention Difficulties in NewStudy “Seeing without looking”:

http://www.scienceblog.com/cms/seeing-without-looking-28782.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+scienceblogrssfeed+%28Science+Blog%29


“Homeless need mental health support”:

http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/nation/homeless-need-mental-health-support/story-e6frg6nf-1225815762974


“What is Tourette Syndrome? What causes Tourette Syndrome?”:

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/culture/books/booknews/6931511/Restaurant-critics-biography-of-autistic-physicist-wins-Costa-biography-award.html


CFS “Fighting Fatigue”:

http://www.mindhacks.com/blog/2010/01/fighting_fatigue.html


“Two Sides of the Same Coin: Speech and Gesture Mutually Interact to Enhance Comprehension”:

http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/175250.php


“What is St. John’s Wort? How effective is St. John’s Wort?”:

http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/174928.php


“Milder depressions don’t appear to benefit from antidepressant treatment”:

http://www.mentalhelp.net/poc/view_doc.php?type=doc&id=34964&cn=5


“An enemy of the good life: Happiness and Personality”:

http://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/dont-delay/201001/enemy-the-good-life-happiness-and-personality


“FDA rejects Lyrica as stand-alone anxiety treatment”:

http://www.healthcentral.com/depression/news-449800-98.html


“The psychology of ‘super-human’ strength”:

http://www.mindhacks.com/blog/2010/01/the_psychology_of_s.html


“Dyslexia Defined: New Yale study ‘uncouples’ reading and IQ over time”:

http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/174466.php


“Synaesthesia: Color my numbers”:

http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/174475.php


“Music therapy helps suppress Tinnitus, researchers find”:

http://www.nytimes.com/2010/01/05/science/05obhear.html?ref=health


DSM-V “Psychiatry’s civil war”:

http://www.newscientist.com/article/mg20427381.300-psychiatrys-civil-war.html


“5 Ways to Make Your Resolutions Stick”:

http://psychcentral.com/blog/archives/2010/01/04/5-ways-to-make-your-resolutions-stick/


“Virtual Hospital”:

http://www.uihealthcare.com/vh/

EDUCATION


Blind/AS “A major success in any language”:

http://www.eveningtimes.co.uk/news/editor-s-picks-ignore/a-major-success-in-any-language-1.996466


“They call this grad ‘Mr. Information’ on The Murfreesboro Post”:

http://www.murfreesboropost.com/they-call-this-grad-mr-information-cms-21170


“Coming, change in Right to Education Act”:

http://www.hindustantimes.com/rssfeed/newdelhi/Coming-change-in-Right-to-Education-Act/Article1-489912.aspx


“Fight to save Ewing School fails”:

http://www.southmanchesterreporter.co.uk/news/s/1187286_fight_to_save_ewing_school_fails


“Update: Family living apart after autistic son was bullied at Hellgate Middle School”:

http://www.missoulian.com/news/local/article_68cbd470-f826-11de-943b-001cc4c002e0.html


“Mum takes school closure fight to voters”:

http://www.southmanchesterreporter.co.uk/news/s/1187426_mum_takes_school_closure_fight_to_voters


“Parents say GHS fails in special education”:

http://www.acorn-online.com/joomla15/greenwich-post/news/local/44934-parents-say-ghs-fails-in-special-education.html

EMPLOYMENT


“Life’s WORC named ‘best place to work”:

http://queenscourier.com/articles/2009/12/28/news/top_stories/doc4b313e6f5cd4a378253508.txt


“Vocational program”:

http://www.albertalocalnews.com/news/local/Vocational_program_80213207.html


“What the new Equality Bill means for employers”:

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/business/8411725.stm


“Retreat on ‘draconian’ testing for disability benefit”:

http://www.guardian.co.uk/society/2010/jan/03/retreat-on-draconian-disability-testing


“Creative Support Ltd”:

http://www.creativesupport.co.uk/


“Autelligent Laboratories

We believe all people have a contribution to make and deserve an opportunity to be productive.

With your caring and excellent help, we are creating jobs for the 40 million people worldwide who are diagnosed with Autism and Asperger Syndrome. Today less than one in five of us are currently employed. We are motivated and competent and we deserve equal employment. Help make this a reality.

Autelligent Laboratories is dedicated to creating a space where autistic software engineers can more than contribute, we can excel.”:

http://www.autlabs.com/


Luxury Quality Scented Candles “Humbolt Candles – Autism & Disability Employment Company”:

http://www.humboldtcandles.com/index.html


“Auties.org”:
Individuality, Diversity, Equality, Achievement

Auties..org is an Aspie & Autie friendly site for all people on the Autistic Spectrum who are ready to dare reach out to occupation and employment, open the doors to the community and market their abilities directly to the public and for those interested in supporting these pioneers.

http://www.auties.org/


“Prospects”:

http://www.nas.org.uk/nas/jsp/polopoly.jsp?d=473&a=2348


“AutismJobs”:
Linking job seekers with vacancies in work related to autism, Aspergers and ASDs

http://www.autismjobs.org/?section=00010009


“Current job vacancies within the NAS”:

http://www.nas.org.uk/nas/jsp/polopoly.jsp?d=170


For further employment information, please view”:

http://aspie-editorial.blog-city.com/employment_on_the_autism_spectrum.htm

GENERAL/HUMAN INTEREST


“Free I-Pod app prepares autistic kids for visit to doctor, dentist & other ‘scary’ places”:

http://www.examiner.com/x-19050-St-Louis-Autism–Parenting-Examiner~y2010m1d5-Free-IPod-app-prepares-kids-wautism-for-visit-to-doctor-dentist–other-scary-places


“Autistic boy feeds needy”:

http://www.nj.com/news/jjournal/jerseycity/index.ssf?/base/news-9/1262589924160580.xml&coll=3


“Don’t baby autistic kids”:

http://www.thestandard.com.hk/news_detail.asp?we_cat=16&art_id=92382&sid=26548864&con_type=1&d_str=&fc=3


“Smart home technology for disabled people”:

http://hiddenwires.co.uk/resourcesarticles2010/articles20100104-10.html


New Campaign “Henry Winkler speaks about dyslexia”:

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/education/educationnews/6941619/Henry-Winkler-speaks-about-dyslexia.html

GERMANY

German Flag

Bundesverband Hilfe für das autistische Kind, Vereinigung zur Förderung autistischer Menschen e.V.
Bebelallee 141
22297 Hamburg
GERMANY
tel: +49 40 511 5604
fax: +49 40 511 0813
e-mail: autismus-bv-hak@t-online.de
Website: http://www.autismus.de/

Weissgerbergasse Nuremberg

The historic street Weissgerbergasse in Nuremberg, Germany 

“ANED – Germany: Facts & Figures, Reports on Social Inclusion & Protection etc, Organisations of Disabled People & More”:

http://www.disability-europe.net/en/countries/Germany?jsEnabled=1

Brandenberg Gate

Brandenberg Gate, Berlin

“German: Facts, Information & History”:

http://travel.nationalgeographic.com/places/countries/country_germany.html

Berlin Cathedral

Berlin Cathedral http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Berliner_Dom

YouTube – Herbert von Karajan conducts The Blue Danube Waltz http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VTqlLKBKFhg

YouTube – German dance http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ddy4LJCC7bk

YouTube -  Ludwig van Beethoven – Fur Elise  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3o5baA0Z9g4

YouTube – Moonlight Sonata (Beethoven) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vQVeaIHWWck&feature=related

Frankfurt

Skyline of Frankfurt

“German Disability Council”:

http://www.deutscher-behindertenrat.de/ID25032

Frankfurt Architecture

Frankfurt Architecture – Half Timbered Houses

“Map of Germany”:

http://www.nationalgeographic.com/xpeditions/atlas/index.html?Parent=europe&Rootmap=german&Mode=d&fs=travel.nationalgeographic.com

German Lederhosen

German Lederhosen

Rathaus, Hamburg

The Hamburg Rathaus is located in the Altstadt quarter in the centre of Hamburg, Germany, near the lake Binnenalster and the central station. It is the seat of the government of Hamburg. Constructed from 1886 to 1897, the city hall still houses its original governmental functions with the office of the First Mayor of Hamburg and the meeting rooms for the parliament and the senate of Hamburg. 

Munich

Munich

Dramatic Sunset in Munich

Dramatic Sunset in Munich

Stuttgart Palace

Stuttgart Palace

“WorldWise Quiz: Berlin”:

http://travel.nationalgeographic.com/places/places-of-a-lifetime/berlin-quiz.html

 

Petersberg, near Bonn

Petersberg, near Bonn

Hannover Town Hall

Hannover Townhall

Spitzhauschen/Pointed House

Spitzhauschen or “Pointed House(dates back to 1416)

Bernkastel-Kues (German pronunciation: [ËŒbɛɐ̯nkastÉ™lˈkuːs]) is a town over 700 years old, located on the Middle Moselle river in the district of Bernkastel-Wittlich, in Rhineland-Palatinate, Germany. Bernkastel-Kues is very famous for its wines and the medieval market square. The square is surrounded by many well preserved half-timbered houses as well as the Renaissance city hall built in 1608. Especially well-known is the very small and narrow so-called “Spitzhäuschen” (the “Pointed House”) which dates back to 1416.
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bernkastel-Kues 

Dresden

Dresden – The buildings in this image are from left to right:
The academy of art (Kunstakademie), behind the Sekundogenitur is the Church of our Lady (Frauenkirche), the Ständehaus (with small tower), the church Hofkirche, the tower of the Dresden castle and the Dresden opera called Semperoper. 

Neuschwanstein Castle

Neuschwanstein Castle, royal palace in the Bavarian Alps of Germany, the most famous of three royal palaces built for Louis II of Bavaria, sometimes referred to as Mad King Ludwig, who grew up nearby at Hohenschwangau Castle. Begun in 1869 and left unfinished at Louis’s death in 1886, the castle is the embodiment of 19th century romanticism. In a fantastical imitation of a medieval castle, Neuschwanstein is set with towers and spires and is spectacularly sited on a high point over the Pöllat River gorge. The king worked with three different architects in succession: Eduard Riedel, Georg Dollmann, and Julius Hofmann, all Germans who based their designs largely on a scheme produced by German stage designer Christoph Jank. Learn more …  http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Neuschwanstein

Rothenburg ob der Tauber

A view from the town hall at the houses to the east …
Rothenburg ob der Tauber is a town in Middle Franconia (Germany, Bavaria), well known for its well-preserved medieval old town and a destination for tourists from around the world.
As to the name “Rothenburg”, some say it comes from the German words Rot (Red) and Burg (burg, medieval fortified town), referring to the red colour of the roofs of the houses which overlook the river Tauber. (en.Wikipedia)

German Cuckoo Clock

German Cuckoo Clock

Burg Eltz

 Burg Eltz is a medieval castle nestled in the hills above the Moselle River between Koblenz and Trier, Germany. It is still owned by a branch of the same family that lived there in the 12th century, 33 generations ago. The Rübenach and Rodendorf families’ homes in the castle are open to the public, while the Kempenich branch of the family uses the other third of the castle.  Some consider Burg Eltz to be Germany’s most impressive castle.

Durer Self Portrait, 1500

Albrecht Durer (1471 – 1528)was a German painter, printmaker and theorist from Nuremberg. His prints established his reputation across Europe when he was still in his twenties, and he has been conventionally regarded as the greatest artist of the Northern Renaissance ever since. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Albrecht_Durer

The Complete Works …  http://www.albrecht-durer.org/

Martin Luther's room in Wartburg Castle

Martin Luther’s room in Wartburg Castle. Martin Luther was a German Christian theologian and Augustinian monk who translated the “New Testament” into German language in order to make it more accessible to people. He translated the bible in just 10 weeks here at Wartburg Castle in Eisenach, Thueringen, Germany.  http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Martin_Luther_(resources)

Statue of Beethoven, Bonn
Statue of Beethoven before the Post Office in his Birth Town of Bonn

“Photo Gallery: Germany”:

http://travel.nationalgeographic.com/places/gallery/germany_bavarian-castle.html

Beethoven

“Ludwig van Beethoven”

Ludwig van Beethoven (1770-1827) was born in Bonn. His family originated from Belgium. His father was musician at the Court of Bonn, with a definite weakness for drink. His mother was always described as a gentle, retiring woman, with a warm heart. Beethoven referred to her as his “best friend”. At an early age, Beethoven took an interest in music, and his father taught him day and night, on returning to the house from music practice or the tavern. Without doubt, the child was gifted, and his father Johann envisaged creating a new Mozart, a child prodigy.
Beethoven was a German composer and pianist. He was a crucial figure in the transitional period between the Classical and Romantic eras in Western classical music, and remains one of the most acclaimed and influential composers of all time.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ludwig_van_Beethoven

ADD/ADHD


“The new ADHD treatments: What are they and how do they work”:

http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/2555179/the_new_adhd_treatments_what_are_they.html


“Navigating ADHD; free teleconference Jan 12th”:

http://www.examiner.com/x-19093-Seattle-Special-Needs-Issues-Examiner~y2010m1d2-Navagating-ADHD-free-teleconference-Jan-12th?cid=channel-rss-Family_and_Parenting


“New ADHD/ADD online screening real time test technology”:

http://www.24-7pressrelease.com/press-release-rss/new-adhd-add-online-screening-real-time-test-technology-130539.php


“Stimulants may offer protection in ADHD”:

http://brainblogger.com/2009/12/24/stimulants-may-offer-protection-in-adhd/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+GNIFBrainBlogger+%28Brain+Blogger%29


ADRES “Adverse Drug Reaction Electronic System(Adverse Drug Reactions Website)”- This website provides patients, doctors, and other medical professionals with a comprehensive examination of adverse drug reactions (ADRs), side effects, and other safety information for both prescription and over-the-counter medications.. Our goal is to allow users of our website make informed decisions when taking (patients) or prescribing (doctors) drugs. We are providing unmatched information and analysis tools.

http://www.adverse-drug-reaction.net/


“adders.org”:
Our objective is to promote awareness to AD/HD (Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder) and to provide information and as much free practical help as we can to those affected by the condition, both adults and children, their families in the UK and around the World via this website.

http://www.adders.org/


“ADDISS” The National Attention Deficit Disorder Information and Support Service…

http://www.addiss.co.uk/index.html


“ADDA”:

http://www.add.org/index.html


“hi2u ADHD Pages”:

http://www..adhd..org.uk/


“CHADD”:

http://www.chadd.org/am/CustomPages/home/CHADD_Home.htm?CFID=2282059&CFTOKEN=38105335&jsessionid=f2303343221169802693562

SPORT


“Young autistic hydroplane driver, 14, is going fast-forward”:

http://www.examiner.com/x-19093-Seattle-Special-Needs-Issues-Examiner~y2009m12d28-Young-hydroplane-driver-with-autism-14-going-fastforward


Tae Kwon Do “Kicks for autism kicks off for special ed kids”:

http://www.strausnews.com/articles/2010/01/07/sparta_independent/news/13.txt


“A league of their own”:

http://www.baltimoremagazine.net/article.asp?t=1&m=1&c=30&s=481&ai=90421


“Swimming Challenges ~ Includes Great Swim Series 2010(June – September 2010)”:

The Great Swim series is taking place at various locations during summer 2010. There will be four televised one-mile outdoor swims, staged in lakes, lochs and docks around the UK.

http://www.nas.org.uk/nas/jsp/polopoly.jsp?d=2551


“10-kilometre runs”:

http://www.nas.org.uk/nas/jsp/polopoly.jsp?d=1816


“Trek to Everest Base Camp- 5-21 November 2010”:

http://www.nas.org.uk/nas/jsp/polopoly.jsp?d=2354


“Trek the Sahara – 5-25 March 2010 or 29 Oct-8 Nov 2010”:

http://www.nas.org.uk/nas/jsp/polopoly.jsp?d=2542


“Trek the Inca Trail – 22-31 May 2010”:

http://www.nas.org.uk/nas/jsp/polopoly.jsp?d=1863


“Trek Snowdon – 11– 3 June 2010”:

http://www.nas.org.uk/nas/jsp/polopoly.jsp?d=2524


“Trek the Jurassic Coast – 16-18 July 2010”:

http://www.nas.org.uk/nas/jsp/polopoly.jsp?d=2525


“Trek Mount Kilimanjaro – 29 Sept-10 Oct 2010”:

http://www.nas.org.uk/nas/jsp/polopoly.jsp?d=2200


“Trek the Great Wall of China – 9-18 Oct 2010”:

http://www.nas.org.uk/nas/jsp/polopoly.jsp?d=2356


“Trek to Everest Base Camp – 5-21 November 2010”:

http://www.nas.org.uk/nas/jsp/polopoly.jsp?d=2354


“Cycle Cuba – 14-22 March 2010”:

http://www.nas.org.uk/nas/jsp/polopoly.jsp?d=2357


“London to Paris 2010 – 5-8 June”:

http://www.nas.org.uk/nas/jsp/polopoly.jsp?d=2407


“L’Etape du Tour 2010 – 18 July 2010”

http://www.nas.org.uk/nas/jsp/polopoly.jsp?d=2404


“Sky Diving – All Year Round”:

http://www.nas.org.uk/nas/jsp/polopoly.jsp?d=1726

MUSIC


“The Jazz of Matt Savage(Including Latest Tour Schedule)”

http://www.savagerecords.com/


“The AutisMusic Project”:

http://www.autismusic.com/

ART


“Design a NAS card for Christmas 2010! ~ Deadline 15th February 2010”:

http://www.nas.org.uk/nas/jsp/polopoly.jsp?d=253&a=20944


GLIMPSE – the talents of the autism community

They are painters, sculptors and photographers; poets and storytellers; musicians and creators of amazing video games. They are kids, teens and adults. Last year, a new online publication arose to celebrate the talents of autistic individuals and other developmental disabilities: GLIMPSE, offered by ICDL (The Interdisciplinary Council of Developmental and Learning Disorders). In late 2008, Volume 2 of GLIMPSE was released, and was expanded into a print book and notecards. The works are serious, humourous, deeply personal and illuminating. See it for yourself, share it with others, submit your own/your child’s work for inclusion in Volume 3, to release later this year. Find information and ordering details at www.icdl.com


“ARTROOM ………where under 17s can make and display art online”:

http://www.saatchi-gallery.co.uk/artroom/index.php

MOVIES/ENTERTAINMENT


“Teen scoops award … A north Belfast teenager has won an international award for best documentary of the year for a film exploring the support available for young people with autism. : http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/community-telegraph/north-belfast/news/teen-scoops-award-14615713.html#ixzz0bBJNoDS1

My Name Is Khan “SRK can be humble”:

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/bollywood/news-interviews/SRK-can-be-humble/articleshow/5388012.cms


“Danes to play autism heroine Grandin in new biopic”:

http://uk.news.yahoo.com/1/20100105/ten-danes-to-play-autism-heroine-grandin-c60bd6d.html


“Actors for Autism”:
http://www.actorsforautism.com/

BOOKS


“Autism in fiction and autobiography”:

http://apt.rcpsych.org/cgi/content/abstract/16/1/47


Graham Farmelo “Restaurant critic’s biography of autistic physicist wins Costa biography award”:

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/culture/books/booknews/6931511/Restaurant-critics-biography-of-autistic-physicist-wins-Costa-biography-award.html


“Tintin inspires a new comic creation”:

http://www.tavistock-today.co.uk/tn/news.cfm?id=48928


“Job Success for Persons with Developmental Disabilities”

Author: David B. Wiegan

Foreword by Ron Rush

http://www.jkp.com/catalogue/aspergerautism?next=16


“Helping Children with Complex Needs Bounce Back”

Authors: Kim Aumann and Angie Hart

Illustrated by Chloe gerhardt

http://www.jkp.com/catalogue/book/9781843109488


“Multisensory Rooms and Environments: Controlled Sensory Experiences for people with Profound and Multiple Disabilities”

Author: Susan Fowler

Foreword by Paul Pagliano

http://www.jkp.com/catalogue/book/9781843109488


“Making Sense of Children’s Thinking and Behavior: A Step-by-Step Tool for Understanding Children with NLD,Asperger’s, HFA, PDD-Nos, and other Neurological Differences”

Author: Leslie Holzhauser-Peters and Leslie True

http://www.jkp.com/catalogue/book/9781843109488


“Let’s All Listen: Songs for Group Work in Settings that Include Students with Learning Difficulties and Autism”

Author: Pat Lloyd

Foreword by Adam Ockelford

http://www.jkp.com/catalogue/book/9781843105831

MOVIE

“Tron Legacy”

Release Date: December 17, 2010

Official Trailer: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1AwvuirSEAA

Synopsis: The Master Control Program is booted back up in this revamped TRON continuation that sees the return of original star Jeff Bridges as Kevin Flynn, the brilliant computer programmer whose disappearance leads his son, Sam (Garrett Hedlund), to search for him in and out of the computer world. Original director and co-writer Steven Lisberger produces the new film, which is helmed by commercial director Joseph Kosinski. James Frain, Olivia Wilde, Beau Garrett, and Michael Sheen also star, with Bruce Boxleitner returning as Alan Bradley/Tron, the heroic protagonist of the original film.

http://uk.rottentomatoes.com/m/10011582-TRON_legacy/

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tron_2.0_%28film%29


“Films Released In 2010 – Photo Gallery”

http://uk.movies.yahoo.com/features/big-in-2010/photos/

VIDEO GAME

“Kingdom Hearts Birth by Sleep” (PSP)

Release Date (Jp) Jan 9, 2010

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kingdom_Hearts_Birth_by_Sleep


Natal “Microsoft’s body-sensing, button-busting controller”:

http://www.newscientist.com/article/mg20527426.800-microsofts-bodysensing-buttonbusting-controller.html

HEALTH

“Let’s Get Physical: Nine Facts About Fitness”

http://www.newscientist.com/article/mg20527421.100-lets-get-physical-nine-facts-about-fitness.html

ENVIRONMENT

“Top Scientists Share Their Future Predictions”

http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/news/science/earth-environment/article6968250.ece

TECH

The Future of Technology

“Technology Predictions For 2010”  The rise of the tablet and augmented reality as well as broadband-enabled TV – our technology team predicts the hot trends for 2010.

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/technology/6874009/Technology-predictions-for-2010.html

 

“Google set to reveal its rival to the Iphone”:

http://uk.news.yahoo.com/5/20100104/twl-google-set-to-reveal-its-rival-to-th-3fd0ae9.html


Happy New Year!

Julie

 Carriagebelow Castle Neuschwanstein

Carriage in the forest below Castle Neuschwanstein



Carol Sonnenblick, Ed.D.

Board of Directors

Freedom Fom Fear


Chubby Santa’s, twinkling lights, parties, the aroma of pies and cookies baking in the kitchen, champagne bubbles, family feasts and gifts piled high greet each year’s holiday season.  Holidays are happy times, right?  Not necessarily.  The advent of the holiday season is not always a time of joy.  It is a time when we mourn those whose presence is missed.  It is a time when frenzied activity adds to the burden of life’s already hectic schedules.  It is a time of excess—spending too much, eating too much and drinking too much. How can we put in the obligatory time with family which may prove toxic as old habits and unresolved issues resurface?   How can we enjoy the holiday season when coping with our usual stressors requires us to use all of our inner resources?  Here are some.

 

  • *Develop a shopping list and spending plan.  Resist impulse buying and extravagance.
  • *Remember that there is no reason to expect that difficult relationships will have improved since last year—so why get aggravated.
  • *Pace your activities.  Accept invitations to those events that will not overburden your life and cause next day exhaustion.  Feeling tired and frantic is not good for your physical and mental health.
  • *If food and drink are an issue—try moderation (more easily said than done—think  January when you will want to undo the results of binge indulging)
  • *Choose parties and events you really care about, avoid day after day of obligatory activities. 
  • *Set aside some time just for yourself—do something that you enjoy, makes you smile and reduces your sense of being on a treadmill.
  • *Chose someone you really care about and spend some quality time, even if it’s only a quick lunch somewhere. 
  • *Make plans for January and February to do something special—give yourself something to look forward to during the coldest, darkest winter months.
  • *Buy yourself a gift, something that you really want that no one else is going to get for you. 

Put the holiday into perspective—the excitement, the scenery, the parties, friends and family.  Recognize that changes in routine can be stressful but that’s just part of the season—enjoy and happy holidays.   

“Remember that our expectations will create our reactions, and expectations are often too idealistic if guided by the hallmark holiday image.”   -Mark Sisti, Ph.D


“Have the freedom to change traditions, based on what works and what no longer works.”-Constance Salhany, Ph.D.


Source:  http://www.freedomfromfear.org/viewtopic.asp?topic_id=246

Christmas and ASD


Christmas  can  be  an  exciting  and  fun  time,  but  it  can  also  be  stressful.
People  with  an  autistic  spectrum  disorder  (ASD)  may  be  confused  or
distressed  by  all  the  new  activity  within  the  household  at  Christmas  and
this can be upsetting for the rest of the family. Hopefully this information

sheet will provide some tips which might help. The word ‘child’ will be used throughout however some of the tips will be useful for adults too.


Preparation


As Christmas approaches, you may want to highlight this holiday period on the household’s or child’s calendar. We would suggest that you check when the school starts work about Christmas, and perhaps you could introduce the idea at a similar time. This will help to ensure consistency. However, if this time frame does not leave enough preparation time for your child, then you should adjust it as appropriate.

 

You may only want to emphasise Christmas Day on the calendar. Or you might want to indicate when the school term ends and starts again, to show that the child will be at home during this holiday. You could name this period on the calendar: ‘Christmas Time’ might be appropriate. Highlighting this on the calendar will help your child to prepare for the time spent away from school, and therefore the change in routine. You can start talking to your child about ‘Christmas Time’ and what this means. This will differ for each family. You could produce a booklet on Christmas with pictures of relevant items, for example Christmas trees, the sorts of decorations you use and the food you might eat. However, remember that if your child is very literal you will need to be careful as they may become anxious if your Christmas does not appear exactly as the pictures.

 

On your calendar you can mark the days that you will buy and put up the Christmas tree and decorations, as well as any other changes which will occur. Do not forget to include the day when relatives or friends will arrive to stay. Although a lot can change during this time, it is important to continue your child’s routine to some extent. If you use visual timetables with your child (see our ‘Visual supports’ information sheet, available free from the Autism Helpline), continue to use them to show what they will be doing during this period.

 

You should include your child with an ASD in the Christmas process. You may want to take them shopping for the tree and decorations, or show them where they are kept in the house before you bring them out for the holiday. This will help your child to become familiar with these items, even if they saw them the year before. Your child should also be involved in putting up the decorations, even if they are just in the room when it occurs. This will hopefully prevent any negative reactions to these new items being placed in a familiar environment.

 

If your child does want to be included then you may like to give them a particular job to do which they can focus on. This may help them to feel included and less anxious about the changes around them. You may even want to decorate the house over a few days if your child finds change particularly difficult. For example, you could place the tree in position, leave it for a few days and then start to decorate it, adding any house decorations later on.

 

The Autism Helpline is often asked about suitable toys or gifts for a child with an ASD. These will vary from one person to another. However we would suggest that for some children with an ASD having a huge number of presents from friends and family might be too overwhelming. Perhaps a set amount could be given, maybe one from mum and dad and one from grandparents. Any other family members who would like to buy a gift could perhaps put the money in a trust fund to be used for the child at other times. Alternatively, perhaps giving the child one gift a day might help to reduce any anxiety.

Suitable gifts

The Autism Helpline is often asked what toys might be suitable for children with an ASD. Therefore we have compiled a list (in no particular order):


1) Trampolines
These come in lots of different sizes, but make sure it’s strong. They are good for using up energy.


2) Sensory toys
There are many types of these, some examples are:

  • *bubble tubes/columns, all different sizes and colours
  • *fibre optic plumes that change colour and can be safely brushed with the hand
  • *bubble-making machines.


3) Board games


  • *’The Socially Speaking Game’ is a social skills board game for seven-year-olds+ from LDAlearning (www.ldalearning.com)
  • *Battleships/Guess Who? are both turn-taking games.


4) Music

  •  
  • *on tape or CD
  • *instruments.


5) Bikes/tricycles


6) Water toys


7) Books
Read-along ones, perhaps accompanied by a tape of the story; for example The Hungry Caterpillar.


These are just a few examples, there are many more. Please remember that every child is different so not every child will like the same toys.

The following website also has some advice about choosing toys for children with autism: www.insidethebubble.co.uk/toys.php

If your child is becoming obsessive about Christmas, you will need to try and set boundaries around this obsession. Please see the Obsessions, repetitive behaviours and routines information sheet for further information.
If you would like any of the information sheets mentioned in this article (Visual supports; Obsessions, repetitive behaviours and routines) please contact the Autism Helpline 0845 070 4004.


Useful contacts


Garden Adventure
Trampolines of all sizes and shapes
Tel: 01342 300146
Email: info@gardenadventure.co.uk
Website: www.gardenadventure.co.uk/Trampoline/index.php


Fledglings
A charity which helps parents and carers of a child with special needs of any kind to find simple, affordable solutions to practical problems.
Sells toys, trikes and other products for children with disabilities
Tel: 0845 458 1124
Email: enquiries@fledglings.org.uk
Website: www.fledglings.org.uk


KidsOut
National charity providing fun to children with special needs, including play equipment and grants
Tel: 01525 385 232
Email: kidsout@kidsout.org.uk
Website: www.kidsout.org.uk


Special Needs Kids
Some ideas for special needs toys
Email: enquiries@special-needs-kids.co.uk
Website: www.special-needs-kids.co.uk/toys-index.htm


LDAlearning
Resource catalogue
Tel: 0845 120 4776
Website: www.ldalearning.com


National Association of Toy and Leisure Libraries
Tel London office: 020 7255 4600
Tel Scotland office: 0131 664 2746
Tel Wales office: 02920 566 333
Website: www.natll.org.uk


Rompathe 6th sense
Resource catalogue
Tel: 01246 211777
Email: sales@rompa.com
Website: www.rompa.com  


SenseToys Ltd
Tel: 0845 257 0849
Email: info@sensetoys.com
Website: www.sensetoys.com


SpaceKraft Limited
Resource catalogue
Tel: 01274 581 007
Website: www.spacekraft.co.uk


TFH UK
Resource catalogue
Tel: 01299 827 820
Email: enquiry form on the website
Website: http://www.specialneedstoys.com/UK/  


Winslow Resources
Resource catalogue
Tel: 0845 230 2777
Email: sales@winslow-cat.com
Website: www.winslow-cat.com


Please note the above organisations are not connected with The National Autistic Society in any way; we cannot recommend any of the above organisations.


References/recommended reading


Newson, J. and E. (1982). Top twenty toys for handicapped children in Living and working with autism. Section 5. The National Autistic Society.
This article is a little old-fashioned in its use of language. However many of their recommendations will still be applicable today. Copies are available from the Autism Helpline on 0845 070 4004.


If you require further information about autism and related issues, please contact the NAS Autism Helpline, open Monday-Friday, 10am-4pm:


Tel: 0845 070 4004
Email: autismhelpline@nas.org.uk


Source:    http://www.autismjersey.org/   

Further Articles


NAS:  Ten Ideas For A Happy Christmas

https://www.aspie-editorial.com/2011/01/09/nas-ten-ideas-for-a-happy-christmas/


Grieving: 7 Tips To Get You Through The Holidays

https://www.aspie-editorial.com/2011/01/09/grieving-7-tips-to-get-you-through-the-holidays/

Holiday Pieces: Getting Through The Holidays, Family Ties, Doing Right For Others & Holiday Blues:

https://www.aspie-editorial.com/2011/01/22/holiday-pieces-getting-through-the-holidays-family-ties-doing-right-for-others-holiday-blues/

Holiday Shopping Tips, Christmas Stress Management, Why Holidays Don’t Have To Be ‘Happy’:

https://www.aspie-editorial.com/2011/01/22/holiday-shopping-tips-christmas-stress-management-why-holidays-dont-have-to-be-happy/

NAS: ‘Tis the Season to be Jolly:

https://www.aspie-editorial.com/2011/01/22/nas-tis-the-season-to-be-jolly/

Introverts: Party Survival Tactics, The Party Predicament, Introverts & Health:

https://www.aspie-editorial.com/2011/01/22/introverts-party-survival-tactics-the-party-predicament-introverts-health/

LEGO NAS Charity Calendar 2010 & New LEGO Games:

https://www.aspie-editorial.com/2011/01/22/lego-nas-charity-calendar-2010-new-lego-games/

Sensory Toy Warehouse(Please Note Comment For Name/Site Change):

https://www.aspie-editorial.com/2011/01/22/the-novelty-warehouse-sensory-toy-shop/


Introvert’s Guide to Holiday Merriment:

https://www.aspie-editorial.com/2011/01/22/introverts-guide-to-holiday-merriment/


Managing Holiday Stress, Alone For The Holidays, Families In Recovery:

https://www.aspie-editorial.com/2011/01/22/managing-holiday-stress-alone-for-the-holidays-families-in-recovery/




Jan

22

 

Relationships come in all shapes and sizes, and never moreso than for those on the autism spectrum. As many have intense interests and a requirement for time alone which their health depends upon, striking a healthy balance that meets the needs of both or all friends/partners is essential. Many seek friendships/relationships with others who are also on the autism spectrum, those whom they feel will best understand, accept and respect them for who they are. While this may work out wonderfully for some, naturally, compatibility is never guaranteed. Much in life is trial and error as we grow and learn from our experiences. Some relationships on the spectrum thrive where couples live in an unconventional manner by society’s standards, living largely in separate residences, while married or committed to one another, or perhaps under the same roof, but retiring to separate rooms. Such couples are known to make the most of the time they do share together. Absence makes the heart grow fonder may well become the mantra! Communication does not come easy for most on the spectrum, but where there is a commitment to make a relationship work, to make a relationship last, the benefits are enormous, for those so inclined. Often, being explicit in verbal/written form, clearly stating wants and needs, can make all the difference.


Many take for granted the ability to read body language, the ability to recognise, engage in and enjoy flirtatious exchange. Some on the spectrum report an inability to pick up on flirting along with the usual cues that represent a show of interest from prospective partners. The presence of mind and self confidence required to say the right thing at the right time, do the right thing at the right time – all in all, be the person your partner needs you to be and vice versa may not come easy for even the smoothest lothario – all relationships require work and TLC. There are some AS/NT relationships that work well and others that have benefited from an autism/AS-friendly Counselor. Those relationships that work best, tend to involve:


  1. A willingness to accept and respect, even cherish difference.

  2. An understanding of the need for independent alone-time in order for the partner on the spectrum to recharge his or her batteries at regular intervals(without taking it personally).

  3. Acceptance that feelings may be expressed via ‘actions’ rather than words.

  4. Communication that is clear and concise, minus hidden meanings and/or nagging.

  5. Regular quality alone time “together” to enjoy shared interests.

  6. A genuine commitment toward the relationship, a willingness to compromise and to genuinely listen to one another.


There are a portion of those on the spectrum who have no wish to form a physical relationship as many consider themselves asexual. However, this does not necessarily mean they do not seek out friendships and close relationships with significant others. There exists some who do choose to go it alone however, seemingly requiring and enjoying minimal time with people in general and who throw themselves into their life’s work and their interests which to them are as essential as the air they breathe. What makes a happy and contented life for one, may be another’s poison. Sadly, there will always be some who struggle with loneliness, on the spectrum or otherwise, for whom friendships/relationships are or were too difficult to maintain for one reason or another throughout life. Finding a career and/or interests may help fill the void to some extent. Other options include working on individual character strengths and weaknesses in a bid to finding a partner and allowing friendships/relationships to form naturally over time through shared interests. Young or mature, age itself is no barrier to finding someone.


The following articles are but a small collection that I hope will grow as time goes on. Please note that while some articles are autism specific, others are not necessarily representative of relationships for those on the autism spectrum, but cover relationships in general.

ARTICLES

 

“Autistic Couple Bound To Each Other – And Their Art”:

http://www.guardian.co.uk/artanddesign/2006/apr/15/art.fashion


“They’re Autistic – And They’re In Love”:

http://www.glamour.com/magazine/2009/02/theyre-autistic-and-theyre-in-love


“The Challenge of Relationships in Adulthood and Asperger’s Syndrome”:

http://www.suite101.com/article.cfm/adult_aspergers/111094


“Does your Partner Have Asperger’s?”:

http://women.timesonline.co.uk/tol/life_and_style/women/body_and_soul/article3416502.ece 

 

“Autism In Love: Dating, Marriage and Confusion in an Aspie Relationship”:

http://aspie-editorial.blog-city.com/autism_in_love_dating_marriage_and_confusion_in_an_aspie_r.htm

 

“New Light Shed On Male & Female Brain Differences”:

http://aspie-editorial.blog-city.com/new_light_shed_on_male__female_brain_differences.htm


“The Relationship Dance”:

http://aspie-editorial.blog-city.com/the_relationship_dance.htm


“Relationships:What Attracts A Woman To A Man: Facial Attractiveness Explained/Why a Broken Heart Really Does Hurt: Scientists Find Social Rejection is Physically Painful”:

http://aspie-editorial.blog-city.com/relationships_what_attracts_a_woman_to_a_man_facial_attrac.htm


“Communication in Relationships: Key Questions to Consider in Significant Relationships/12 Things You Want Your In-Laws To Know/9 Steps To Better Communication Today/Why Do We Choose Our Mates? Ask Charles Darwin, Prof Says”:

http://aspie-editorial.blog-city.com/communication_in_relationships_key_questions_to_consider_in.htm


“Relationships: The Attractions of Humour/Long-Term Happiness/Marriage/When A Friendship Ends/Broken Heart Syndrome”:

http://aspie-editorial.blog-city.com/relationships__the_attractions_of_humourlongterm_happines.htm


“Health Effects of Divorce, Widowhood Linger Even After Remarriage”:

http://aspie-editorial.blog-city.com/health_affects_of_divorce_widowhood_linger_even_after_remar.htm


“The Internet Helps Teenagers with Social Relationships”:

http://aspie-editorial.blog-city.com/the_internet_helps_teenagers_with_social_relationships.htm


“Relationships: Includes Remarriage, Respect & Communication, Reducing Divorce Rates, Friendships Etc”:

http://aspie-editorial.blog-city.com/relationships_includes_remarriage_respect__communication.htm


“Relationships: Female Friends, Supporting Divorced Families, Apologizing To A Woman, Personality, Do Opposites Attract?, Marital Satisfaction Etc”:

http://aspie-editorial.blog-city.com/relationships_female_friends_supporting_divorced_families.htm


“Top Worries During Christmas 2009: Money, Relationships And Health”:

http://aspie-editorial.blog-city.com/top_worries_during_christmas_2009_money_relationships_and_.htm


“Relationships: 6 Ways To Show You Care/Study: Marriage Wards Off Blues/Managing Conflict”:

http://aspie-editorial.blog-city.com/relationships_6_ways_to_show_you_carestudy_marriage_wards.htm


“Relationships: Recession & Marriage, What’s The Impact?, Conflict, Heartbroken? Take A Tylenol(Seriously)”:

http://aspie-editorial.blog-city.com/relationships_recession__marriage_whats_the_impact_con.htm


“Relationships: Co Dependent or Addicted to Love?, Desire May Skew Reality, The Scent of a Woman, Fidelity, Facebook”:

http://aspie-editorial.blog-city.com/relationships_co_dependent_or_addicted_to_love_desire_may.htm


“Couples with Shared Identity & Conflict Resolution, Pretty Women & Anger Issues, Men & Guilt, Romance in the Digital World, Emotional Affair Recovery, Valentine’s Day & More”:

http://aspie-editorial.blog-city.com/relationships_couples_with_shared_identity__conflict_resol.htm


“Relationships: Support, Jealousy, Valentines, Keeping The Flame Alive, Cars & male Appeal, Living Together, Taller Than Your Man?, Pride”:

http://aspie-editorial.blog-city.com/relationships_support_jealousy_valentines_keeping_the_fl.htm


“Relationships: Kindness Key To Dating Success?, Tips For Valentine’s, Just Met, Do I Know You?, If Marriage Is So Good …”:

http://aspie-editorial.blog-city.com/relationships.htm


“Relationships: A Healthy Relationship, Mixed families, Tell Me Lies, Tell Me Sweet Little Lies & More”:

http://aspie-editorial.blog-city.com/relationships_a_healthy_relationship_stuck_in_a_bad_love_p.htm


“Relationships: The Attraction of Red, Psychology of Touch, Facebook Profiles, Self Knowledge, Marriage Problems?, Soothing Approaches”:

http://aspie-editorial.blog-city.com/relationships_the_attraction_of_red_psychology_of_touch_f.htm


“Relationships: Men’s Preference For The Hourglass Figure, The Last Taboo, Teen Relationships & More”:

http://aspie-editorial.blog-city.com/relationships_mens_preference_for_the_hourglass_figure_th.htm

 

“Relationships: Playing Hard To Get. Does it Work?, The Truth About Open Marriage, Confidence, Grandparenting, Jealousy, Emotional Resiliency & More”:

http://aspie-editorial.blog-city.com/relationships_playing_hard_to_get_does_it_work_the_truth.htm

 

“Relationships: Controlling Men, Male & Misunderstood, Questions About Marriage, Monogomy& Multiple Relationships & More …”:

http://aspie-editorial.blog-city.com/relationships_controlling_men_male__misunderstood_questi.htm

 

“Relationships: 5 Secrets For Successful Long-Term Relationships, Online Dating, Hooking Up vs Dating, Sex Without Romance, Finding Long Lost Friends & More …”:

http://aspie-editorial.blog-city.com/relationships_5_secrets_for_successful_longterm_relationsh.htm

 

“Relationships: ADHD & Relationships, Family Tree Research May Cause Rifts, Affairs of the Mind, Forgiveness, Loss Of A Spouse, Seniors & Loneliness, Darwin’s Theory of Sexual Selection & More …”:

http://aspie-editorial.blog-city.com/relationships_adhd__relationships_family_tree_research_ma.htm

 

“Relationships: Intelligence & Exclusivity, A Marriage Made In Hormones, Indifference, Serial Adultery, Alcohol Dependence, Choosing a Partner & More …”:

http://aspie-editorial.blog-city.com/relationships_intelligence__exclusivity_a_marriage_made_i.htm

 

“Relationships: Friends First, Understanding Male Friendships, The Power of the Ex, One Dating Trait of a Successful Future Mate, Intimacy & Vulnerability & More …”:

http://aspie-editorial.blog-city.com/relationships_friends_first_understanding_male_friendships.htm

 

“Relationships: Highest Quality Marriages, Narcissism’s First Cousin, What Makes a True Friend, Adolescent Dating, Good Girls, Bad Girls, Older Men & Sexual Issues & More …”:

http://aspie-editorial.blog-city.com/relationships_highest_quality_marriages_narcissisms_first.htm

 

“Relationships: To Love Well, You Have To Sometimes Feel Inadequate, The Sound of Seduction, Shyness Affects Marital Quality, An Inconvenient Truth: Monogomy & Libido, Happiness Interview & More …”:

http://aspie-editorial.blog-city.com/relationships_to_love_well_you_have_to_sometimes_feel_inad.htm

 

“Relationships: Daily Appreciation Helps Romance, Overcoming Anger In Relationships, Men Literally Die For Sex(Male Mortality), Giving & Accepting An Apology, Female Friendships”:

 http://aspie-editorial.blog-city.com/relationships_daily_appreciation_helps_romance_overcoming_.htm

 

“Relationships: How To Ask For What You Want, Relationships & The Silent Treatment, Rejection, Dating & Self Esteem, Shared Solitude & More …”:

http://aspie-editorial.blog-city.com/relationships_how_to_ask_for_what_you_want_relationships_.htm


“Relationships: Others Influence Our Choice Of Mates, Concerned From Tunbridge Wells, Have A Happy Marriage …”:

http://aspie-editorial.blog-city.com/relationships_others_influence_our_choice_of_mates_concern.htm


“Relationships: Speaking Male, Speaking Female, Broken Hearts Hurt Men More Than Women, Relationship Insecurity Ups Health Risks”:

http://aspie-editorial.blog-city.com/relationships_speaking_male_speaking_female_broken_hearts.htm

 

“Relationships: Better For Men To Be Macho Than Modest, A Tricky Transaction, Make-Up Sex & Self Sabotage, Ending Relationships Via New Media, Former Lovers & Trust & More …”:

http://www.aspie-editorial.blog-city.com/relationships_better_for_men_to_be_macho_than_modest_a_tri.htm


“Inception And Dangerous Ideas In Relationships”:

http://www.aspie-editorial.blog-city.com/inception_and_dangerous_ideas_in_relationships.htm


“Relationships: Women Attracted To Men In Red, I Want You … Go Away!, Unequal Love Across The Color Line, Marriage Lowers Stress, Watch That Work Schedule, Women & Sexuality & More …”:

http://www.aspie-editorial.blog-city.com/relationships_women_attracted_to_men_in_red_i_want_you_.htm


“Relationships: Time-Starved Relationships, 2 Heads Are Better Than 1 – With The Right Partner, Do Couples Grow More Alike With The Passage Of Time?, What Exactly Is A Hook-Up?”:

http://www.aspie-editorial.blog-city.com/relationships_timestarved_relationships_2_heads_are_bette.htm

 

“Relationships: Sons Reduce Likelihood Of Divorce, Coping With Divorce, The Bipolar Relationship, How To Improve Your Mood & Reduce Tension, How To Be Happy, Confucian Style”:

http://aspie-editorial.blog-city.com/relationships_social_connections_sons_reduce_likelihood_of.htm


“Relationships: Online Dating Insights, Can Other People Make Us Happy?, Freedom to Love & More …”:

http://aspie-editorial.blog-city.com/relationships_online_dating_insights_can_other_people_make.htm


“Relationships: Positive Relationships, Do Opposites Attract?, Objectum Sexuality, The Best Way To Meet Someone Etc”:

http://aspie-editorial.blog-city.com/relationships_positive_relationships_do_opposites_attract.htm

 

“Men Prefer A Pretty Face For A LTR, Seeking Happily Ever After: Tips For Singles, Evolutionary Perspective On After-Sex Behaviors, Fight Styles/Conflict Resolution & More …”:

http://aspie-editorial.blog-city.com/relationships_men_prefer_a_pretty_face_for_a_ltr_seeking_h.htm


“Relationships: Imitation Of Language Suggests Blissful Relationship, Snapshot of America’s Sexual Behaviors, 8 Habits Of Lousy Listeners, The Allure Of Red, Can’t Buy Me Love, But Happiness?”:

http://aspie-editorial.blog-city.com/relationships_imitation_of_language_suggests_blissful_relat.htm


“Relationships: Love Can Ease Pain, Selfless Genes Attract Mates, Visual Clues Linked To Male Sexual Memory, Online Dating, 3 Danger Signs Of An Affair, How Friends Affect Your Brain & More …”:
http://aspie-editorial.blog-city.com/relationships_love_can_ease_pain_selfless_genes_attract_ma.htm

 

“Relationships: Facebook May Be Hazardous To Your Relationship, Forget What Grandma Taught You: Smart Is Sexy”:

http://aspie-editorial.blog-city.com/relationships_facebook_may_be_hazardous_to_your_relationshi.htm

 

“Relationships: Man With Asperger’s Syndrome Finds Love With First Girl He Was Able To Look In The Eye”:

http://aspie-editorial.blog-city.com/relationships_man_with_aspergers_syndrome_finds_love_with_.htm

 

“Relationships: Falling Only Takes About A Fifth Of A Second, Flirting, Emotional Intimacy, Affair Prevention, Divorce, Couples, Resilience & Cancer, 10 Tips To Enhance Love Bonds & More”:

http://aspie-editorial.blog-city.com/relationships_falling_only_takes_about_a_fifth_of_a_second.htm

LINKS


“Relate – The Relationship People”

http://www.relate.org.uk/home/index.html


“BASRT – British Association for Sexual and Relationship Therapy”

http://www.basrt.org.uk/


“Institute of Family Therapy”

http://www.instituteoffamilytherapy.org.uk/


“2as1 – Family & Relationship Support Specialists”

http://www.2as1.net/


“BBC – Relationships”

http://www.bbc.co.uk/relationships/


“Relationships Foundation”:

http://www.relationshipsfoundation.org/


“Divorce Aid: UK’s Leading Divorce Resource For Divorce Advice and Personal Help”

http://www.divorceaid.co.uk/


Forum: “ASD Relationships: Asperger’s and Autism in Relationships”

http://asdrelationships.freeforums.org/index.php


“Relationships Forum and Online Community(Help & Advice):

http://www.problem-relationships.com/

 

“Relationships & Communication – Forums at Psych Central”:

http://forums.psychcentral.com/forumdisplay.php?f=7


“Sexuality & Gender Issues”:

http://forums.psychcentral.com/forumdisplay.php?f=43


“Psych Central: Relationships”:

http://psychcentral.com/resources/Relationships/


“Quiz: How Strong Is Your Relationship?”:

http://psychcentral.com/quizzes/relationship_quiz.htm

 

BOOKS

Asperger Meets Girl: Happy Endings for Asperger Boys

Jonathon Griffiths

http://www.jkp.com/catalogue/book/9781843106302/

The Love-Shy Survival Guide

Talmer Shockley

http://www.jkp.com/catalogue/book/9781843108979/

Autistics’ Guide to Dating: A Book by Autistics, for Autistics and Those Who Love Them

Emilia Murry Ramey and Jody John Ramey

http://www.jkp.com/catalogue/book.php/isbn/9781843108818

Asperger Syndrome and Social Relationships

Adults Speak Out About Asperger Syndrome

Edited by Genevieve Edmonds and Luke Beardon

http://www.jkp.com/search/index.php?s=Unwritten+Rules+of+Social+Relationships

Unwritten Rules of Social Relationships

Temple Grandin and Sean Barron

Edited by Veronica Zysk

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Unwritten-Rules-Social-Relationships/dp/193256506X

http://www.amazon.com/Unwritten-Rules-Social-Relationships/dp/193256506X

Social Skills for Teenagers and Adults with Asperger’s Syndrome: A Practical Guide to Day-to day Life

Nancy J. Patrick

http://www.jkp.com/catalogue/book/9781843108764

Friendships: The Aspie Way

Wendy Lawson

http://www.jkp.com/catalogue/book/9781843104278

Sex, Sexuality and the Autism Spectrum

Wendy Lawson, Glenys Jones

http://www.jkp.com/catalogue/book/9781843102847

Making Sense of Sex: A Forthright Guide to Puberty, Sex and Relationships for People with Asperger’s Syndrome

Sarah Attwood

http://www.jkp.com/catalogue/book/9781843103745

Autism: Asperger’s and Sexuality – Puberty and Beyond

Jerry and Mary Newport

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Autism-Aspergers-Sexuality-Puberty-Beyond/dp/1885477880/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1268407838&sr=1-5

Mozart and the Whale

An Asperger’s Love Story

Jerry and Mary Newport

with Johnny Dodd

http://www.realmozart-whale.com/

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Mozart-Whale-Aspergers-Love-Story/dp/0743272846/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1268407838&sr=1-4

Asperger Syndrome – A Love Story

Sarah Hendrickx and Keith Newton

http://www.jkp.com/catalogue/book/9781843105404

Love, Sex and Long-Term Relationships: What People with Asperger Syndrome Really Really Want

Sarah Hendrickx

Foreword by Stephen M. Shore

http://www.jkp.com/catalogue/book/9781843106050

    

Books About Relationships from Amazon”:

http://www.amazon.co.uk/relationships-Books/s?ie=UTF8&keywords=relationships&rh=n%3A266239%2Ck%3Arelationships&page=1

http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss?url=search-alias%3Dstripbooks&field-keywords=relationships&x=9&y=29

MOVIES

Articles Relating To This Title:

From News Archives : 24th February, 2006:

The film begins USA distribution in the two cities where it was filmed: Spokane, Washington and Cour D’Alene, Idaho. The opening weekend is April 14th, 2006. The studio will do a charity event for an autism organization in Spokane a few days before the opening. Cour D’Alene is the home of an adult support group which gave input to the project back in 2004, as did Jerry’s group in Los Angeles prior to production.(My thanks to Jerry)http://aspie-editorial.blog-city.com/news_archives_24th_february_2006.htm

Mozart and The Whale Review:

http://www.aspergeradults.ca/mozartwhalereview.html

Articles Relating To This Title:

Adam: “Playing It Straight”

http://aspie-editorial.blog-city.com/adam__playing_it_straight.htm

Is Adam The New Rain Man?

http://aspie-editorial.blog-city.com/is_adam_the_new_rain_man.htm

Autistic Portrayals in Cinema

http://aspie-editorial.blog-city.com/autistic_portrayals_in_cinema.htm

Article Relating To This Title:

http://aspie-editorial.blog-city.com/mary_and_max_engaging_for_all.htm

Article Relating to This Title:

http://aspie-editorial.blog-city.com/my_name_is_khan_to_be_screened_at_berlin_film_festival.htm



 

Dear Readers,

Wishing you all the very best for 2010! 

May you find peace, hope and happiness in the year ahead.

Julie

xx

* Posts on aspie editorial will resume  once again from January 7th, 2010.  Thanks for your patience.



 

HEADLINES

“In Memory of Kim Peek …”:

http://aspie-editorial.blog-city.com/in_memory_of_kim_peek_.htm

“Chef admits stabbing teaching assistant to death”:

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/uknews/crime/6857421/Chef-admits-stabbing-teaching-assistant-to-death.html

“Casey Anthony: Florida news station questions whether someone heard ‘Caylee’s body being dumped”:

http://www.examiner.com/x-1168-Crime-Examiner~y2009m12d13-Casey-Anthony-Florida-news-station-questions-whether-someone-heard-Caylees-body-being-dumped

“Coroner: Death of Highlands Ranch runner was “natural”:

http://www.denverpost.com/commented/ci_14020808?source=commented-

“Kidnapping/molesting suspect standing trial”:

http://permianbasin360.com/content/fulltext/?cid=56461

“Teacher investigated for reported abuse against kindergarten students”:

http://www.newyorkinjurynews.com/2009/12/19/Teacher-investigated-for-reported-abuse-against-kindergarten-students_200912191830.html

“Teacher’s aide threw stapler at autistic child: Lawsuit”:

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/34429541/ns/local_news-chicago_il/

“Report: Possible discrimination by GFPS in alleged abuse at North Middle School”:

http://www.kfbb.com/news/local/79469747.html

“Teacher suspended, complaints dropped”:

http://www.pennlive.com/news/patriotnews/index.ssf?/base/news/12613695145180.xml&coll=1

“Drowning is the leading cause of injury-related death in autistic children”:

http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/2477826/the_risk_of_drowning_in_children_with.html

“Tizard Centre to support Autism London to provide better understanding of hate crimes”:

http://www.news-medical.net/news/20091211/Tizard-Centre-to-support-Autism-London-to-provide-better-understanding-of-hate-crimes.aspx

“Project Lifesaver “:

http://www.kimballarea.com/main.asp?SectionID=1&SubSectionID=1&ArticleID=10340

“Colorado coalition for disabled files lawsuit against Abercrombie, Hollister stores”:

http://www.denverpost.com/headlines/ci_14045772

“Court sides with family in service dog case”:

http://www.dailyherald.com/story/?id=345338&src=109

“Google faces a different world in Italy … For Mr. Fleischer, it was the first indication that he had become ensnared in the outcry over online videos involving an autistic boy in Turin and some classmates who taunted him, filmed the scenes from a mobile phone and posted them on the Web.”:

http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/09348/1020857-96.stm

“Ari Ne’eman chosen by President Obama for NCD Post”:

http://aspie-editorial.blog-city.com/ari_neeman_chosen_by_president_obama_for_ncd_post.htm

“[Australia] Bill Shorten MP: Disability eNews”:

http://aspie-editorial.blog-city.com/australia_bill_shorten_mp_disability_enews.htm

“NAS Media Response: The Lamb Inquiry/Special Needs Parents Need Help”:

http://aspie-editorial.blog-city.com/nas_media_response_the_lamb_inquiryspecial_needs_parents_n.htm

“NAS supports Carer Poverty Charter”:

http://www.nas.org.uk/nas/jsp/polopoly.jsp?d=253&a=20918

“NAS Cymru Socialeyes programme wins top award”:

http://www.nas.org.uk/nas/jsp/polopoly.jsp?d=253&a=21049

“NAS supports new report on disabled teenagers”:

http://www.nas.org.uk/nas/jsp/polopoly.jsp?d=253&a=20892

“Hacker, Albert Gonzalez, claims form of autism, seeks lean sentence”:

http://www.reuters.com/article/idUSTRE5BH3SV20091218?feedType=RSS&feedName=domesticNews

“Gary McKinnon Updates”:

http://aspie-editorial.blog-city.com/gary_mckinnon_updates_new_hope_on_extradition.htm

“Single mom seeks help for artistic autistic son… Amoako Buachie, 18, a gifted autistic artist from Flatbush, suffers from a severe sleeping disorder that causes him to throw tantrums in the middle of the night – a condition that is tearing his family apart.”:

http://www.nydailynews.com/ny_local/brooklyn/2009/12/15/2009-12-15_single_mom_seeks_help_for_artistic_son_with_autism.html

“Losing their home? Funding cuts putting group homes in peril”:

http://cherokeescout.com/articles/2009/12/15/news/doc4b27fc59896ab073808704.txt

“NAS: Lorna Wing to chair ‘Autism in Women and Girls’ Conference ~ 25th Feb 2010”:

http://www.nas.org.uk/nas/jsp/polopoly.jsp?d=253&a=20999

HEALTH & RESEARCH

“Publication of new DSM Diagnostic Manual put back”:

http://aspie-editorial.blog-city.com/publication_of_new_dsm_diagnostic_manual_put_back.htm

“DSM-V: Suggestions for Change”:

http://psychcentral.com/blog/archives/2009/12/17/dsm-v-suggestions-for-change/

“Take up of MMR jab is at its highest for years”:

http://www.walesonline.co.uk/news/health-news/2009/12/18/take-up-of-mmr-jab-is-at-its-highest-for-years-91466-25419053/

“How the autistic brain distinguishes oneself from others”:

http://aspie-editorial.blog-city.com/how_the_autistic_brain_distinguishes_oneself_from_others.htm

“Autistic people have problem with self awareness”:

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/health/8407857.stm

“BBC: Dangerous Myths about Epilepsy”:

http://aspie-editorial.blog-city.com/bbc_dangerous_myths_about_epilepsy.htm

“Link discovered between the Nervous and Immune Systems – Might lead to new treatments for Autoimmune Disorders”:

http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/172598.php

“Scientists explore toddlers’ chaotic learning style, develop a theory”:

http://dailymail.com/News/NationandWorld/200912100740

“Abstract: Pregnancy outcomes among women with Panic Disorder – Do Panic Attacks during pregnancy matter?”:

http://aspie-editorial.blog-city.com/abstract_pregnancy_outcomes_among_women_with_panic_disorder.htm

“One in 10 now taking drugs to fight depression”:

http://www.heraldscotland.com/news/health/one-in-10-now-taking-drugs-to-fight-depression-1.992435

“Artistic pursuits fight depression, promote health”:

http://aspie-editorial.blog-city.com/artistic_pursuits_fight_depression_promote_health.htm

“BPS Research Digest: The Special Issue Spotter”:

http://aspie-editorial.blog-city.com/bps_research_digest_the_special_issue_spotter_5.htm

“Top Worries During Christmas 2009: Money, Relatonships & Health”:

http://aspie-editorial.blog-city.com/top_worries_during_christmas_2009_money_relationships_and_.htm

“Relationships: 6 Ways to Show You Care/Study: Marriage Wards Off Blues/Managing Conflict”:

http://aspie-editorial.blog-city.com/relationships_6_ways_to_show_you_carestudy_marriage_wards.htm

“Survival of the Kindest”:

http://aspie-editorial.blog-city.com/survival_of_the_kindest.htm

“People who look young for their age ‘live longer”:

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/health/8411329.stm

“Virtual Hospital”:

http://www.uihealthcare.com/vh/

EDUCATION

“Education: Special Needs system requires ‘Radical Overhaul”:

http://aspie-editorial.blog-city.com/education_special_needs_system_requires_radical_overhaul.htm

“Parents of children with special educational needs feel let down by system … Review of special educational needs services calls for national helpline for parents and extra funding”:

http://www.guardian.co.uk/education/2009/dec/16/special-educational-needs-review-parents

“Portslade mum appeals for help”:

http://www.theargus.co.uk/news/4790201.Portslade_mum_appeals_for_help/?ref=mr

“I came to see the school as a little corner of paradise” … Fighting for special needs support becomes even more difficult when you have to battle a local authority”:

http://www.guardian.co.uk/education/2009/dec/20/special-needs-support-education

“Parents fight to save special education class”:

http://www.dailybulletin.com/ci_14035799

Download Resources “Autism Spectrum Disorders: A Resource Pack for School Staff”:

http://www.tes.co.uk/article.aspx?storycode=6030055

Download Resources “Bullying and Autism Spectrum Disorders ~ A Guide for School Staff”:

http://www.tes.co.uk/article.aspx?storycode=6030056

Download Resources “ASD Resource Pack for Teachers”:

http://www.tes.co.uk/article.aspx?storycode=6030057

“Suspensions on the rise for special needs students”:

http://aspie-editorial.blog-city.com/suspensions_on_the_rise_for_special_needs_students.htm

“Poor Handwriting? Motor-Planning for Autism”:

http://aspie-editorial.blog-city.com/poor_handwriting__motorplanning_for_autism.htm

“NAS: LEGO UK reach £80,000 fundraising target for NAS Radlett Lodge School”:

http://www.nas.org.uk/nas/jsp/polopoly.jsp?d=1673&a=20930

“School district reverses teaching cut for autistic boy … A New Brunswick school district has reversed its decision to cut a teaching assistant for a young boy with a form of autism after his education began regressing this fall.”:

http://www.cbc.ca/canada/new-brunswick/story/2009/12/16/nb-moncton-boy-ta-549.html

“Committed teachers can effectively handle autistic kids”:

http://www.hindu.com/2009/12/16/stories/2009121650670200.htm

Natalie Mitchell “Matheny-Withrow teacher inspired to pursue special education career”:

http://www.sj-r.com/time_out/x1145295024/Matheny-Withrow-teacher-inspired-to-pursue-special-education-career

“No best approach to education for all autistic children”:

http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/173768.php

“New High School expansion serving kids on autism spectrum”:

http://www.examiner.com/x-4167-Salt-Lake-City-Special-Needs-Kids-Examiner~y2009m12d11-New-High-School-Expansion-Serving-Kids-On-Autism-Spectrum

“Tuition aid eludes needy”:

http://www.azcentral.com/arizonarepublic/news/articles/2009/12/13/20091213sto-outreach1213.html

“E-project puts technology in hands of young students … The Grade 7s at Major Ballachey elementary school are about to give some Nipissing University students a lesson in technology. The 11 and 12-year-olds are working on a series of podcasts that they’ll share in January, via video-conference, with second-year university students studying to be teachers.”:

http://beta.brantfordexpositor.ca/ArticleDisplay.aspx?e=2218654

“Physical Education teaching staff play key role in making you like sport … According to a new investigation, physical education teaching staff must develop the responsibility, encourage social interaction and avoid making comparisons between the pupils. The objective is to make us feel capable of doing physical exercise and playing sport throughout our lives.“:

http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/173801.php

“Autistic boy in school bell fear”:

http://www.mirror.co.uk/news/top-stories/2009/12/11/autism-boy-in-school-bell-fear-115875-21888108/

“Bell fear boy gets earmuffs”:

http://www.thesun.co.uk/sol/homepage/news/2767038/Bell-fear-boy-gets-earmuffs.html?OTC-RSS&ATTR=News

“Mukilteo schools grieve the sudden loss of an extraordinary teacher”:

http://www.heraldnet.com/article/20091214/NEWS01/712149901/0/NEWS04

EMPLOYMENT

“MU Professor writes guide to help autistic adults find jobs”:

http://aspie-editorial.blog-city.com/employment_mu_professor_writes_guide_to_help_autistic_adult.htm

“Autism in Computer Science”:

http://aspie-editorial.blog-city.com/autism_in_computer_science.htm

“Second jobs with a real twist: His projects go up, up and away”:

http://www.jewishexponent.com/article/20196/

Volunteer Opportunities “Make a difference: Courage Center Duluth needs intermediate to advanced skiers or snowboarders to help teach youth and adults with physical disabilities how to ski during the 2010 ski program. If you’re interested, print a volunteer application at www.couragecenter.org and mail it to the Duluth office.”:

http://www.duluthnewstribune.com/event/article/id/154089/group/Scrapbook/

“A side order of sunshine”:

http://www.phillyburbs.com/news/news_details/article/222/2009/december/13/a-side-order-of-sunshine.html

“Creative Support Ltd”:

http://www.creativesupport.co.uk/


“Autelligent Laboratories

We believe all people have a contribution to make and deserve an opportunity to be productive.

With your caring and excellent help, we are creating jobs for the 40 million people worldwide who are diagnosed with Autism and Asperger Syndrome. Today less than one in five of us are currently employed. We are motivated and competent and we deserve equal employment. Help make this a reality.

Autelligent Laboratories is dedicated to creating a space where autistic software engineers can more than contribute, we can excel.”:

http://www.autlabs.com/

Luxury Quality Scented Candles “Humbolt Candles – Autism & Disability Employment Company”:

http://www.humboldtcandles.com/index.html

“Auties.org”:
Individuality, Diversity, Equality, Achievement

Auties..org is an Aspie & Autie friendly site for all people on the Autistic Spectrum who are ready to dare reach out to occupation and employment, open the doors to the community and market their abilities directly to the public and for those interested in supporting these pioneers.

http://www.auties.org/

“Prospects”:

http://www.nas.org.uk/nas/jsp/polopoly.jsp?d=473&a=2348

“AutismJobs”:
Linking job seekers with vacancies in work related to autism, Aspergers and ASDs

http://www.autismjobs.org/?section=00010009

“Current job vacancies within the NAS”:

http://www.nas.org.uk/nas/jsp/polopoly.jsp?d=170

For further employment information, please view”:

http://aspie-editorial.blog-city.com/employment_on_the_autism_spectrum.htm

GENERAL/HUMAN INTEREST

“Toledo mom balances raising kids and fighting cancer”:

http://abclocal.go.com/wtvg/story?section=news/local&id=7168826&rss=rss-wtvg-article-7168826

“Grieving mum creates new support group for addicts’ loved ones”:

http://www.thisisdorset.co.uk/westerngazette/yeovil/Mum-lost-son-drug-abuse-starts-help-group/article-1591564-detail/article.html

Therapeutic Learning Center “Removing obstacles for the disabled … Hizella Martinez felt too wobbly to walk, too scared to join her mom at the market and too awkward in her blindness to have any friends. But it was all smiles after the Van Nuys toddler discovered the Therapeutic Living Centers for the Blind. ”:

http://www.dailynews.com/ci_14042752

Communication “Loquendo now offering speech recognition in Australian English … Turin, Italy-based speech technologies provider Loquendo has announced the release of the company’s “ASR” speech recognition tool in Australian English. The addition of this language not only increases the Loquendo Speech Recognition portfolio to 25 languages, but along with Loquendo TTS for Australian, which was released earlier this year, the company now offers TTS and ASR technologies for 3 versions of the English language for the US, UK and Australian markets.”:

http://www.tmcnet.com/channels/speech-recognition/articles/70892-loquendo-now-offering-speech-recognition-australian-english.htm

Silverleaf Counselling, Lanchester(NE England) “Liane is tackling childhood problems … A FORMER primary school teacher and psychology graduate from Durham has set up a successful counselling service.”:

http://www.nebusiness.co.uk/business-news/latest-business-news/2009/12/15/liane-is-tackling-childhood-problems-51140-25394490/

Independent Living “New Danville moving forward, needs donations”:

http://www.hcnonline.com/articles/2009/12/10/conroe_courier/news/danville121109.txt

“Park Township Board approves residential farm for developmentally-disabled adults”:

http://www.mlive.com/news/grand-rapids/index.ssf/2009/12/park_township_board_approves_r.html

“Therapeutic horse farm survives”:

http://www.journal-news.com/news/ohio-news/member-exchange-therapeutic-horse-farm-survives-446658.html?cxtype=rss_ohio-news

“NH Children’s Museum has new program for autistic … The Children’s Museum of New Hampshire in Dover is using a grant to provide free visits to families with autistic children when the museum is closed to the public.”:

http://www.boston.com/news/local/new_hampshire/articles/2009/12/12/nh_childrens_museum_has_new_program_for_autistic/

“Sometimes words fail and labels don’t fit”:

http://www.newsobserver.com/news/health_science/story/236707.html

“NAS and Beatbullying join forces to help autistic young people”:

http://www.nas.org.uk/nas/jsp/polopoly.jsp?d=253&a=20913

“NAS: LEGO designer auction ~ 15 Feb 2010”:

http://www.nas.org.uk/nas/jsp/polopoly.jsp?d=1673&a=20865

CHRISTMAS

Let it Snow ...

“NAS: Download our free guide to the festive season”:

http://www.nas.org.uk/nas/jsp/polopoly.jsp?d=2420&a=20925

“How To Attack Holiday Stress Head On”:

http://aspie-editorial.blog-city.com/how_to_attack_holiday_stress_head_on.htm

“Survial Hints for Making it Through the Holiday Season/Christmas and ASD”:

http://aspie-editorial.blog-city.com/survival_hints_for_making_it_through_the_holiday_seasonchri.htm

“Special needs kids get Christmas thrills at SRQ”:

http://www.bradenton.com/news/story/1908540.html

The Nutcracker

“Pomona boy helps light state Capitol’s tree”:

http://www.contracostatimes.com/california/ci_13973558?nclick_check=1

http://aspie-editorial.blog-city.com/pomona_boy_helps_light_state_capitols_tree.htm

“Model train exhibit a holiday wonderland”:

http://www.gainesville.com/article/20091213/articles/912139964

“Grinch steals holiday display”:

http://www.9news.com/news/local/article.aspx?storyid=128841&catid=222

“Vandals wreck Christmas for adults with learning disabilities”:

http://www.thisisnottingham.co.uk/homenews/Vandals-wreck-Christmas-adults-learning-disabilities/article-1601588-detail/article.html


Recipe …  http://cherrapeno.blogspot.com/2008/12/triple-chocolate-christmas-pudding.html

Christmas Recipes

http://recipes.kaboose.com/holidays/christmas-recipes/christmas-recipes.html

http://www.guardian.co.uk/lifeandstyle/interactive/2009/dec/08/best-christmas-recipes

http://allrecipes.com/Recipes/Holidays-and-Events/Christmas/Top.aspx

http://www.momswhothink.com/christmas/the-best-christmas-cookie-recipes-ever.html

AUSTRIA

Austrian Flag
Learn more about Austria … http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Austria

Österreichische Autistenhilfe
Esselinggasse 13/3/11
A-1010 Wien
AUSTRIA
Tel: +43 1 533 96 66
Fax: +43 1 533 78 47
Email: office@austinhilfe.at
Website:
http://www.autistenhilfe.at/

 Hallstatt, Upper Austria
Hallstatt is a village in the Salzkammergut region of Upper Austria.
Because of the extraordinary importance of its beautiful cultural landscape, Hallstatt was declared a World Heritage Site in 1997 by UNESCO.

“ANED: Austria”:

http://www.disability-europe.net/en/countries/Austria?jsEnabled=1

Sun Kisses Mountain, Tyrol
Sun Kisses Mountain, Tirol 

“Autism Europe”:

http://www.autismeurope.org/portal/Default.aspx?tabid=1

Fishing at Plansee, Tyrol
Plansee is a lake in Tirol, Austria. Its surface is approximately 2.87 km² and its maximum depth is 78 metres. The lake is famous for it’s beautiful green color.

Hans Asperger
Hans Asperger 


“Hans Asperger”:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hans_Asperger

 Cable Cars, Austria
Cable Cars over the Penken 

“Leo Kanner(pronounced Conner)”:

http://library.thinkquest.org/C0110296/info.php?id=36

http://www.unstrange.com/kanner.html

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Leo_Kanner

Mozart
Johannes Chrysostomus Wolfgangus Theophilus Mozart(January 27th, 1756 – December 5th, 1791): This painting was by Barbara Krafft in 1819. 

“Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart(1756-1791)”: 

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wolfgang_Amadeus_Mozart

http://www.cco.caltech.edu/~tan/Mozartreq/mozartpage.html

http://www.passionato.com/composer/Mozart

http://www.mfiles.co.uk/composers/Wolfgang-Amadeus-Mozart.htm

 Mozart's Birthplace
Mozart’s Birthplace, Saltzburg, Austria

“Austrian Facts, Information & History”:

http://travel.nationalgeographic.com/places/countries/country_austria.html

 Saltzburg
Saltzburg 

“Map of Austria”:

http://travel.nationalgeographic.com/places/maps/map_country_austria.html

 St. Jacob im Haus
Picture postcard view of the small village of St. Jacob im Haus, Austria

“Austria’s Lake Country Photo Gallery”:

http://traveler.nationalgeographic.com/2009/04/austria-photography

 Vienna State Opera
Vienna State Opera http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vienna_State_Opera

“Vienna, Austria(Places of a Lifetime)”:

http://travel.nationalgeographic.com/places/places-of-a-lifetime/vienna.html

 Inside Vienna Opera House
Inside Vienna Opera House 

“WorldWise Quiz: Vienna”:

http://travel.nationalgeographic.com/places/places-of-a-lifetime/vienna-quiz.html

 Reflections on the Lake, Austria
Reflections on the Lake, Austria 

Austria’s Official Tourism Sites

“Austrian National Tourist Office: Information on Austria’s attractions, accommodations, campgrounds, cities, activities, and more.”:

http://www.austria.info/uk

The Sound of Silence
Sound of Silence: This is the Weissensee in Kärnten, Austria early in the morning ..
full of peace and silence.

“Austrian Embassy: Entry requirements for Austria, and summary of Austria’s history, culture, and politics.”:

http://www.austria.org/

 Belvedere Palace
The Upper Belvedere…http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Belvedere_Palace A baroque palace that was built between 1720-1723. Belvedere is a palace complex built by Prince Eugene of Savoy just south-east of the historic city center of Vienna. There is a most magnificent garden with many fountains behind this building. The gardens were designed by Dominique Girard who trained in the gardens of Versailles as a young student.http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Palace_of_Versailles

“Austrian Airlines: Flight schedules and deals from Austria’s official air carrier.”:

http://www.aua.com/us/eng

 Winter in Austria
Winter in Austria 

Other Interesting Austrian Sites

Ski Central: Guide to Austrian ski resorts, including vacation packages, accommodations, snow reports, and web cams of popular ski areas.”:

http://www.skicentral.com/austria.html

Vienna by Night
Vienna by Night 

“Europe for Visitors: Information on Austria’s museums, memorials, and national parks.”:

http://europeforvisitors.com/switzaustria/planner/blp_museums_parks_at.htm

Christkindlmarkt, Vienna
The famous Christkindlmarkt at the city centre of Vienna. The tram is decorated with advertisement for “Licht ins Dunkel”

“Global Gourmet: Overview of Austrian foods and wines; also, key terms on Austrian menus.”:

http://www.globalgourmet.com/destinations/austria/

Ellmau, Austria
Ellmau, Austria 

“Wines from Austria: Information on Austria’s wine regions, wine estates, wine tours, and varietals.”:

http://www.winesfromaustria.com/eindex.php

Deer in the Snow
Deer in the Snow 

“Vienna Classic: Online ticket office to more than a thousand Viennese theatrical events, from operas to plays.”:

http://www.viennaclassic.com/termine.php?navid=13&lang=E

Austrian Children in Traditional Costume
Austrian Children in Traditional Costume 

“About Austria: Details on Austria’s major festivals, holiday celebrations, Christmas markets, and more.”:

http://www.aboutaustria.org/veranstaltungen/veranstaltungen.htm


Edelweiss 

“AboutVienna.org: Information on architecture styles in Austria’s capital.”:

http://www.aboutvienna.org/architecture_in_vienna.php

Austrian Lederhosen Band
Austrian Lederhosen Band in the Marketplace 

“Austria Today: News, local politics, business, and culture from a Vienna-based English newspaper.”:

http://www.austriatoday.at/cgi-bin/at_mitte.pl

Cafe Mozart, Saltzburg
Cafe Mozart, Saltzburg 

“Exploring Austria: Pam’s Insider Secrets”:

http://blogs.nationalgeographic.com/blogs/intelligenttravel/2009/04/pams-austria.html

Christmas in Vienna
Christmas in Vienna 

 

ADD/ADHD

“Self Help for Adult ADHD”:

http://www.mentalhelp.net/poc/view_doc.php?type=doc&id=34307&cn=3

“3 Steps to mindfully work with ADHD and Procrastination”:

http://www.mentalhelp.net/poc/view_doc.php?type=doc&id=34029&cn=3

“Half of U.S. kids with mental issues are getting help”:

http://www.kltv.com/global/story.asp?s=11672751

“Seizure drug limits aggression in kids with ADHD”:

http://www.postchronicle.com/news/health/article_212273272.shtml?ref=rss

“Teens and Drug Use”:

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/34421760/ns/local_news-little_rock_ar/

“Rates of common mental disorders among American youth tracked by National Survey”:

http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/173904.php

“Williams: California doping our youths”:

http://washingtontimes.com/news/2009/dec/07/williams-california-doping-our-youths/

“ADHD is Ritalin really The Answer?”:

http://blog.lehighvalleylive.com/allentown/2009/12/adhd_is_ritalin_really_the_ans.html

“New kids’ health site offers advice from Pediatricians”:

http://www.usnews.com/health/blogs/on-parenting/2009/12/10/new-kids-health-site-offers-advice-from-pediatricians.html?s_cid=rss:on-parenting:new-kids-health-site-offers-advice-from-pediatricians

“The ADHD-Sleep Connection”:

http://www.momlogic.com/2009/12/adhd_sleep_connection.php

“Mandel memoir exposes funnyman’s inner terror”:

http://www.cbc.ca/arts/books/story/2009/12/07/howie-mandel.html

ADRES “Adverse Drug Reaction Electronic System(Adverse Drug Reactions Website)”- This website provides patients, doctors, and other medical professionals with a comprehensive examination of adverse drug reactions (ADRs), side effects, and other safety information for both prescription and over-the-counter medications.. Our goal is to allow users of our website make informed decisions when taking (patients) or prescribing (doctors) drugs. We are providing unmatched information and analysis tools.

http://www.adverse-drug-reaction.net/

“adders.org”:
Our objective is to promote awareness to AD/HD (Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder) and to provide information and as much free practical help as we can to those affected by the condition, both adults and children, their families in the UK and around the World via this website.

http://www.adders.org/

“ADDISS” The National Attention Deficit Disorder Information and Support Service…

http://www.addiss.co.uk/index.html

“ADDA”:

http://www.add.org/index.html

“hi2u ADHD Pages”:

http://www..adhd..org.uk/

“CHADD”:

http://www.chadd.org/am/CustomPages/home/CHADD_Home.htm?CFID=2282059&CFTOKEN=38105335&jsessionid=f2303343221169802693562

SPORT

“Autistic singer dreams of Olympics – his goal nearly reached”:

http://www.ksdk.com/news/local/story.aspx?storyid=191713

“10-kilometre runs”:

http://www.nas.org.uk/nas/jsp/polopoly.jsp?d=1816

“Trek to Everest Base Camp- 5-21 November 2010”:

http://www.nas.org.uk/nas/jsp/polopoly.jsp?d=2354

“Trek the Sahara – 5-25 March 2010 or 29 Oct-8 Nov 2010”:

http://www.nas.org.uk/nas/jsp/polopoly.jsp?d=2542

“Trek the Inca Trail – 22-31 May 2010”:

http://www.nas.org.uk/nas/jsp/polopoly.jsp?d=1863

“Trek Snowdon – 11– 3 June 2010”:

http://www.nas.org.uk/nas/jsp/polopoly.jsp?d=2524

“Trek Mount Kilimanjaro – 29 Sept-10 Oct 2010”:

http://www.nas.org.uk/nas/jsp/polopoly.jsp?d=2200

“Trek the Great Wall of China – 9-18 Oct 2010”:

http://www.nas.org.uk/nas/jsp/polopoly.jsp?d=2356

“Trek to Everest Base Camp – 5-21 November 2010”:

http://www.nas.org.uk/nas/jsp/polopoly.jsp?d=2354

“Cycle Cuba – 14-22 March 2010”:

http://www.nas.org.uk/nas/jsp/polopoly.jsp?d=2357

“London to Paris 2010 – 5-8 June”:

http://www.nas.org.uk/nas/jsp/polopoly.jsp?d=2407

“L’Etape du Tour 2010 – 18 July 2010”

http://www.nas.org.uk/nas/jsp/polopoly.jsp?d=2404

“Sky Diving – All Year Round”:

http://www.nas.org.uk/nas/jsp/polopoly.jsp?d=1726

MUSIC

Music Therapy “Teachers strike an emotional chord with disabled students”:

http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/chi-music-teachers-21-dec21,0,64381.story

“The AutisMusic Project”:

http://www.autismusic.com/

ART

“Design a NAS card for Christmas 2010!”:

http://www.nas.org.uk/nas/jsp/polopoly.jsp?d=253&a=20944

This year’s NAS Christmas Cards are now on sale. There’s a selection of cards, two of which are designed by our competition winners. For fans of Thomas and Friends, there’s also a festive Thomas card. For more information, visit http://www.autism.org.uk/christmascards

GLIMPSE – the talents of the autism community

They are painters, sculptors and photographers; poets and storytellers; musicians and creators of amazing video games. They are kids, teens and adults. Last year, a new online publication arose to celebrate the talents of autistic individuals and other developmental disabilities: GLIMPSE, offered by ICDL (The Interdisciplinary Council of Developmental and Learning Disorders). In late 2008, Volume 2 of GLIMPSE was released, and was expanded into a print book and notecards. The works are serious, humourous, deeply personal and illuminating. See it for yourself, share it with others, submit your own/your child’s work for inclusion in Volume 3, to release later this year. Find information and ordering details at www.icdl.com

“ARTROOM ………where under 17s can make and display art online”:

http://www.saatchi-gallery.co.uk/artroom/index.php

MOVIES/ENTERTAINMENT

Alex Plank “New Documentary Film ~ Autism Reality”:

http://aspie-editorial.blog-city.com/new_documentary_film__autism_reality.htm

“My Name is Khan” to be screened at Berlin Film Festival”:

http://aspie-editorial.blog-city.com/my_name_is_khan_to_be_screened_at_berlin_film_festival.htm

“First look at “My Name is Khan” … The story revolves around Rizwan Khan (Shah Rukh), a Muslim from Mumbai with Asperger syndrome, a form of autism. Rizwan marries a Hindu single mother Mandira (Kajol) in San Francisco. But post 9/11, Rizwan is detained by authorities at Los Angeles International Airport, mistaking his disability for ‘suspicious’ behaviour. The film is slated to release Feb 12, 2010.”:

http://www.calcuttanews.net/story/578346

“Promo Review: My Name is Khan is impressive”:

http://movies.rediff.com/report/2009/dec/17/promo-review-my-name-is-khan.htm

“Actors for Autism”:
http://www.actorsforautism.com/

BOOKS

“Mark Haddon: Oxford author is UK’s third best seller of decade”:

http://aspie-editorial.blog-city.com/mark_haddon_oxford_author_is_uks_third_best_seller_of_deca.htm

“The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time is best-selling novel of the decade”:

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/culture/books/booknews/6801945/The-Curious-Incident-of-the-Dog-in-the-Night-Time-is-best-selling-novel-of-the-decade.html

Sarah Horowitz “Sarah’s Story”:

http://frontpagemag.com/2009/12/14/sarah%E2%80%99s-story-by-barbara-kay/

“Karen Perry: Why not a book in every stocking?”:

http://www.news-record.com/content/2009/12/11/article/karen_perry_why_not_a_book_in_every_stocking

“Integrated Yoga: Yoga with a Sensory Integrative Approach”

Author: Nicole Cuomo

http://www.jkp.com/catalogue/book/9781843108627

“What is Dyslexia?: A Book Explaining Dyslexia for Kids and Adults to Use Together”

Author: Alan M. Hultquist

http://www.jkp.com/catalogue/book/9781843108825

“Children with Seizures: A Guide for Parents, Teachers, and Other Professionals”

Author: Martin L. Kutscher MD

Foreword by Gregory L. Holmes MD

http://www.jkp.com/catalogue/book/9781843108238

Shortlisted 2008 Nasen Awards(SEN & Disabilities Book Award)

“ADHD – Living without Brakes”

Author: Martin L. Kutscher MD

Illustrated by Douglas Puder, M.D.

http://www.jkp.com/catalogue/book/9781843108733

“Reaching and Teaching the Child with Autism Spectrum Disorder: Using Learning Preferences and Strengths”

Author: Heather MacKenzie

http://www.jkp.com/catalogue/book/9781843106234

“Many Shades of Success: Other Views of Post-Secondary Options”

Author: Allissa Citro

http://www.asperger.net/bookstore_M114.htm

“It’s Ok Eli”

Author: Carol Surber

http://aspie-editorial.blog-city.com/book__its_ok_eli_by_carol_surber.htm

“Autistic Authors Booklist & Facts”:

http://www.autistics.org/library/booklist.html

MOVIE

“Avatar”

Release Date: 17-12-2009

Synopsis: Avatar is the story of an ex-Marine who finds himself thrust into hostilities on an alien planet filled with exotic life forms. As an Avatar, a human mind in an alien body, he finds himself torn between two worlds, in a desperate fight for his own survival and that of the indigenous people. More than ten years in the making, Avatar marks Cameron’s return to feature directing since helming 1997’s Titanic, the highest grossing film of all time and winner of eleven Oscars® including Best Picture. WETA Digital, renowned for its work in The Lord of the Rings Trilogy and King Kong, will incorporate new intuitive CGI technologies to transform the environments and characters into photorealistic 3D imagery that will transport the audience into the alien world rich with imaginative vistas, creatures and characters.

http://uk.rottentomatoes.com/m/avatar/

Consensus: It might be more impressive on a technical level than as a piece of storytelling, but Avatar reaffirms James Cameron’s singular gift for imaginative, absorbing filmmaking.

“Avatar: Official Site”:

http://www.avatar-movie.co.uk/

Speculation “Avatar moons may be science fact”:

http://uk.news.yahoo.com/21/20091220/tsc-avatar-moons-may-be-science-fact-4b158bc.html

VIDEO GAME

“Around The World in 80 Days”(Nintendo DS)

Release Date: March 31, 2010

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Around-World-80-Days-Nintendo/dp/B002Q0W88O/ref=pd_nr_vg_h__29?ie=UTF8&s=videogames

“Rubik’s Puzzle World (Wii, Nintendo DS)”:

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Game-Factory-Rubiks-Puzzle-World/dp/B001CSPVGM/ref=wl_it_dp_o?ie=UTF8&coliid=I1MJQG1FH67VII&colid=2M2468ZYIVALY

Free Download Games “Around the World in 80 Days Official Site – Playrix Games”:

http://www.playrix.com/around-the-world.html

“Study Finds Benefits of Playing Video Games”:

http://aspie-editorial.blog-city.com/study_finds_benefits_of_playing_video_games.htm

“Whizkid Games: Online Fun Spot To Learn Living Skills For Autistic Kids”:

http://aspie-editorial.blog-city.com/whizkid_games_online_fun_spot_to_learn_living_skills_for_au.htm

“Our Top 5 Party Games For Christmas 2009”:

http://uk.videogames.games.yahoo.com/blog/article/7275/

“Most expensive console ever”:

http://uk.videogames.games.yahoo.com/6b/news/wii-supreme-is-world-s-most-expensive-console-4d556b.html

LIFE

“Is Synaesthesia A High-Level Brain Power?”

http://www.newscientist.com/article/mg20427393.800-is-synaesthesia-a-highlevel-brain-power.html

HEALTH

“Bionics”

The blind can see, a one-armed woman can fold her shirts. Learn how bionics are changing lives.

Amanda Kitts is mobbed by four- and five-year-olds as she enters the classroom at the Kiddie Kottage Learning Center near Knoxville, Tennessee. “Hey kids, how’re my babies today?” she says, patting shoulders and ruffling hair. Slender and energetic, she has operated this day-care center and two others for almost 20 years. She crouches down to talk to a small girl, putting her hands on her knees.

“The robot arm!” several kids cry.

Read More …

http://ngm.nationalgeographic.com/2010/01/bionics/fischman-text

Warmest Wishes For A Wonderful Christmas and a Safe & Happy 2010!

Julie

Tirol, Kitzbuhel
Tirol, Kitzbuhel 



 Kim Peek
Kim Peek
US man who inspired Rain Man dies

13:08 AEST Tue Dec 22 2009
4 minutes ago
By Doug Alden
 

A relative says Kim Peek, the man who inspired the title character in the Oscar-winning movie Rain Man, has died. He was 58.

Fran Peek says his son had a heart attack on Saturday and was pronounced dead at a hospital in the Salt Lake City suburb of Murray.

Peek was a savant with a remarkable memory. Fran Peek says his son could read a book just once and memorise it.

Kim Peek inspired Barry Morrow when he wrote Rain Man, the movie that won four Academy Awards, including best actor for Dustin Hoffman, who played the title role.

Source:   http://news.ninemsn.com.au/entertainment/986627/us-man-who-inspired-rain-man-dies

 
Going Home For Christmas: Goodbye To Kim Peek

Kim Peek, “The Real Rain Man,” Dies at 58
 
While some may dislike the Oscar winning film, “Rain Man,” it has always had a special place in my heart.  For me, watching it was a revelation – it gave me a name, for the first time, for what made me different.  When I read today that the man who inspired the movie, Kim Peek, passed away last Saturday, I was deeply saddened.  

Over the years, Kim has inspired many people, from school children to fellow savant, Daniel Tammet, whose meeting with him was taped for the documentary “Brainman.”   (An encounter which still has the power to move me to tears.)  As the Associated Press quotes: “‘It was just unbelievable, all the things that he knew,’ Fran Peek [his father] said Monday. ‘He traveled 5,500 miles short of 3 million air miles and talked to nearly 60 million people — half have been students.'”   That’s an amazing impact…and quite a legacy to leave.  

Kim met screenwriter Barry Morrow at a conference in the early 1980s where, the Associated Press reports “… the writer was taken with Peek’s knack for retaining everything he heard. Morrow wrote the script, and the movie went on to win Oscars for best film and best actor for Dustin Hoffman, whose repetitive rants about being an excellent driver and the ‘People’s Court’ about to start were a hit with moviegoers.”

What surprises many people is that Kim was actually not autistic. Dr. Darold Treffert, consultant on the movie and author of the book “Extraordinary People: Understanding Savant Syndrome” writes: “Along the way to its completion, the original script for the movie Rain Man underwent a number of modifications. While Kim Peek served as the initial inspiration for the story, Raymond Babbitt, as portrayed so admirably by Dustin Hoffman, is a composite savant with abilities drawn from a number of different real life individuals. The main character in that movie, Raymond Babbitt, was modified to be an autistic savant. The story thus is that of a person who is autistic but also has savant skills grafted on to that basic autistic disorder. It is important to remember, therefore, that not all autistic persons are savants, and not all savants are autistic. In preparation for his role, Dustin Hoffman spent time with several other autistic savants and their families, as well as with Kim.”

According to Dr. Treffert, “Kim Peek was born on November 11, 1951. He had an enlarged head, with an encephalocele, according to his doctors. An MRI shows, again according to his doctors, an absent corpus callosum — the connecting tissue between the left and right hemispheres; no anterior commissure and damage to the cerebellum. Only a thin layer of skull covers the area of the previous encephalocele.”  His unique brain structure led to his amazing abilities, but also caused difficulties.  He found many typical daily activities, such as dressing himself, difficult. 

Despite his challenges, he was able to memorize every book that was read to him by the time he was 16-20 months old.  Over the years he was able to developed encyclopedic knowledge in at least 15 subject areas. He was an expert in everything from history, to literature, area codes, zip codes, classical music, and calendar calculations.  Barry Morrow summed up Kim’s impact on people in the following quote: “I don’t think anybody could spend five minutes with Kim and not come away with a slightly altered view of themselves, the world, and our potential as human beings.”

In honor of the man he profiled and knew for many years, Dr. Treffert wrote the following tribute:

“There has never been, and there will never be, another person like Kim Peek. His talents were unique, exceptional and spectacular. And the story of the love and bond between he and his Dad was inspirational. Their willingness to share both the skills and the story with so many audiences world-wide so unselfishly was their gift to us. Kim says ‘Rain Man

Last night I looked up and saw a new star in the heavens. It shown brightly but it had a uniquely different shape than all the rest. It was truly one of a kind. Kim was one of a kind.

Kim went home for Christmas.” changed my life.’ Well, Kim, you in turn, along with your Dad, touched and changed our lives as well.

Source:   http://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/aspergers-diary/200912/going-home-christmas-goodbye-kim-peek


Father: Utah Man Who Inspired ‘Rain Man’ Dies

Published: December 21, 2009
 
SALT LAKE CITY (AP) — The man who inspired the title character in the Oscar-winning movie ”Rain Man” has died.

Kim Peek was 58. His father, Fran, says Peek had a major heart attack Saturday morning and was pronounced dead at a hospital in the Salt Lake City suburb of Murray.

Peek was a savant with a remarkable memory and inspired writer Barry Morrow when he wrote ”Rain Man,” the 1988 movie that won four Academy Awards.

Fran Peek said his son met Morrow at a convention in the early 1980s and the writer was taken with Peek’s knack for retaining everything he heard. Morrow wrote the script, and the movie went on to win Oscars for best film and best actor for Dustin Hoffman, whose repetitive rants about being an excellent driver and the ”People’s Court” about to start were a hit with moviegoers.

Although the character was technically fictional, Fran Peek said his son was every bit as amazing as Hoffman’s portrayal of him. And Kim’s true character showed when he toured the world, helping dispel misconceptions about mental disabilities.

”It was just unbelievable, all the things that he knew,” Fran Peek said Monday. ”He traveled 5,500 miles short of 3 million air miles and talked to nearly 60 million people — half have been students.”

In his later years, Peek was classified as a ”mega-savant” who was a genius in about 15 different subjects, from history and literature and geography to numbers, sports, music and dates. But his motor skills were limited; he couldn’t perform some simple tasks like dressing himself.

NASA scientists had been studying Peek, hoping that technology used to study the effects of space travel on the brain would help explain his mental capabilities.

Fran Peek says the funeral will be next Tuesday in Taylorsville. Details were pending.

Source:   http://www.nytimes.com/aponline/2009/12/21/arts/AP-US-Obit-Rain-Man.html?_r=1&scp=1&sq=Kim%20Peek&st=cse

 

Kim Peek

Published: Monday, Dec. 28, 2009 12:23 a.m. MST 

Utahn Kim Peek, the mega-savant who helped inspire Dustin Hoffman’s character in the 1988 motion picture “Rain Man,” died recently of an apparent heart attack. Peek, considered a genius in about 15 different subjects, was 58 years old.

Although the fictional “Rain Man” was an autistic savant, researchers in recent years determined that Kim Peek was not autistic. NASA scientists had studied Peek with the hope that technology used to research the effects of space travel on the brain could help explain his mental capabilities.

Peek continued to gain more knowledge as he aged, learning in recent years to play the piano and even tell jokes.

Peek’s recall and command of history, literature, math, sports, classical music and geography was remarkable. Between the vast audience for the Academy Award-winning “Rain Man” and Peek’s thousands of personal appearances over the years, the public learned a great deal about mental disabilities and, specifically, the remarkable capabilities of savants. He and his father, Fran Peek, also lobbied for equal educational opportunities for people with disabilities.

Peek was the subject of more than 4,000 articles and 22 documentaries.

While Peek literally memorized entire books during frequent visits to the Salt Lake City Public Library — somehow being able to read the left and right pages simultaneously — he was 16 years old before he mastered climbing stairs.

Yet he and his father traveled nearly 3 million air miles for speaking engagements. Fran Peek said the pair addressed more than 60 million people over the years.

Perhaps the only thing more noteworthy than Peek’s extraordinary capabilities was his father’s devotion to him. Fran Peek was his son’s primary caregiver. He, too, marveled at Kim’s ability to conduct complex calculations in his head or to recall significant dates in history. But he was also the person who daily helped his son with simple tasks that were beyond his reach, such as dressing himself or setting the table. Fran Peek authored two books about his son.

Peek’s life was an inspiration to many. The contributions he and his father have made to the community, especially to those who are disabled, will pay dividends for many years to come.

Source: http://www.deseretnews.com/article/705354483/Editorial-Kim-Peek.html

Fran and Kim Peek
Fran and Kim Peek 
Fran Peek, Kim Peek and Ernie Jones
Fran Peek, Kim Peek and Ernie Jones 

Kim Peek on the Discovery Channel
Kim Peek on the Discovery Channel 

Kim Peek's Oscar
The Oscar given to Kim Peek (aka Rain Man) by Barry Morrow, the writer of Rain Man.
Kim carried it everywhere with him. It’s gold exterior is worn off, as you can see, because of how many people have held it. It’s called the “Most Loved Oscar Statue.” It’s heavy; it weighs about eight pounds. – S. Kirsch

Condolences to Fran Peek and to all who knew and loved Kim.   



Randy Dotinga

Expert offers tips for coping with common scenarios

(HealthDay News) — With pressures from the economic hard times, dysfunctional families and countless other factors, the holidays can contribute to emotional stress and depression.

But there are ways to cope with the various scenarios that people experience at this time of year, according to Dr. Laura Miller, director of women’s mental health in the psychiatry department at Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston.

For instance, she suggests:

If seasonal depression gets worse in fall and winter …

  • A therapeutic light box, which provides powerful light beyond what you can come up with yourself, might help in the morning. A doctor can help obtain one.
  • Exercise can also make you feel better.

If you’re busy and stressed out …

  • Take time for fun activities such as walking, meditating, exercising and hanging out with friends.
  • Consider buying prepared foods instead of trying to make everything yourself.
  • In general, reduce the number of activities that are more stressful than joyful.

If you can’t afford the gifts you’d like to give …

  • Remember that people who care about you will be more interested in the fact that you thought of them than in the cost of your gift. Find a poem someone would enjoy and frame it. Or, bake something special for someone.

If you get anxious at social gatherings …

  • Self-help workbooks can help you develop skills to conquer social anxiety. Start now, though; don’t wait until the day of the event.

If you’ve lost a loved one, and the holidays are especially tough …

  • Find a way to remember your loved one. Play the person’s favorite music, for instance, or visit his or her grave, making sure to bring along family or friends who can help you cope.

More information

Mental Health America has more on coping with everyday stress.

Source:  http://www.healthscout.com/news/1/633692/main.html



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