Supporting the Spectrum Thompson Center

In this episode we delve into the unique perspective of young adults with autism as they interview two of their former teachers. Ms. Ballew and Ms. Sickmeier openly reflect on their interactions with students with autism throughout their teaching careers. Listeners are invited to consider the transformative power of listening, understanding, and embracing neurodiversity in education. This episode serves as a poignant reminder of the richness that diversity brings to the classroom and the profound impact of fostering an environment of acceptance and mutual respect.

Swimming can be a great opportunity to get fresh air, exercise, and spend time with your family and community. Water safety is very important to think about as we head into the summer months. On this episode of Supporting the Spectrum, Dr. Lea Ann Lowery, Occupational Therapist at the University of Missouri, joins us to share the importance of water safety and some helpful tips to keep autistic children safe when around water.

Happy Autism Acceptance and Awareness month! On this episode of Supporting the Spectrum, we are joined by Dr. Jennifer Sykes to discuss the language we use when talking about autism and why it matters.

On this episode of Supporting the Spectrum, we are joined by Lora and Myles Hinkle, to learn about the process their family went through when their son was diagnosed with autism. Lora and Myles share what their son’s evaluation process was like, how they helped him get the services he needed, and share helpful advice for other families navigating an autism diagnosis.

In this episode of Supporting the Spectrum join us to learn about The Thompson Foundation for Autism and Neurodevelopment. The Thompson Foundation for Autism and Neurodevelopment partners with The Thompson Center to help make a difference in the lives of autistic individuals and their families. Listen to this episode to learn about the support and advocacy work The Thompson Foundation is doing and how you can help support them.

Autism research continues to evolve. In recent years, research has been completed on what autism looks like in infancy. Research has shown that some traits of autism can be present during infancy. Dr. Stephen Sheinkopf from the University of Missouri’s Thompson Center for Autism and Neurodevelopment joins this episode to help us better understand the research on autism in infancy and how it can benefit early intervention processes.