AUTISM NOW AN AUTISM PUBLICATION FALL/WINTER 2017

VOLUME 32, NUMBER 1 Since 1971, Autism Edmonton (Autism Society of Edmonton Area) has been providing services and supports to people in the community who are living with autism spectrum disorder. Autism Edmonton has become known as a "go-to" source that connects families, individuals and professionals with autism- related resources.

Autism Edmonton helps people navigate their options for services, find vital information, and develop skills and peer support through facilitated activity and discussion groups.

Editor: Iryna Bajraktari WE SEE A COMMUNITY Autism Now is developed by Autism Edmonton, to help engage WHERE ALL PEOPLE members of the autism community, and is published two WITH AUTISM ARE times per year. VALUED AND HAVE A Contents may be reproduced only LIFE FILLED WITH with written permission of Autism Edmonton. POSSIBILITIES.

Contact

Mailing address: 101, 11720 Kingsway Avenue NW Edmonton, AB T5G 0X5

Email; [email protected]

Phone: 780-453-3971

Website: autismedmonton.org

Facebook: facebook.com/autismedmonton

Twitter: @AutismEdmonton MESSAGE FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR CAROLE ANNE PATENAUDE

We are just a few days away from Christmas, a time when we look back at the year that has passed and prepare for the one ahead. To that end, I am pleased to share that thanks to the overwhelming generosity of our supporters, Autism Edmonton celebrates its most fruitful Gala yet, raising $660,000 to support services for people with autism. Furthermore, we are astonished by the number of people who have approached the agency recently to offer their help, which once again shows how compassionate people in our community are.

No event is too big or too small to turn an opportunity into a way to support a great cause. All of them help make a real difference in the lives of people on the autism spectrum and their families. We are very thankful to our Cycle participants and the many individuals and groups who organize events throughout the community and choose to donate the proceeds to our organization.

While we know financial resources are critical to serving our community, it takes dedication and hard work to ensure that we can build a brighter future for people with autism and their families. In short, it takes you – our generous supporters and volunteers – to help Autism Edmonton continue assisting those coping with the challenges of autism and creating a community where people with autism are valued and have a life filled with possibilities.

We are grateful for, and humbled by, the mind-blowing support of our donors and sponsors and the efforts of volunteers and staff to advance our cause. With your continued support, our agency will be able to reach new heights in the provision of supports and services.

Thank you all!

3 WELCOME TO OUR 2017-2018 BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Executive Committee

David Jardine (5th Year, President) – David is a parent of a 29- Justin Reynolds (2nd Year) – Justin Reynolds has a young son on year-old stepson with autism. He is a partner in the law firm of the spectrum. He feels strongly about creating opportunities Shores Jardine LP and practices primarily in the area of and giving back to the community for people with autism, administrative law. He has also been involved as a director whether that involves donating time and efforts individually, with autism organizations at the provincial and national level. or contributing as an organization through inclusive hiring practices. Justin is an avid runner and brings business Kevin Payne (3nd year) – Kevin is a self-advocate, diagnosed a experience to the Board table. few years ago. During the day, he leads a team of IT professionals for a large organization. In his spare time, he is a Luc Heath, CA, CPA (1st year) - Luc is a father of three, including part-time student in Psychology, and is involved in the a son on the spectrum. He is a senior manager at KBH community as a participating member and facilitator for Chartered Accountants where his passion is providing both multiple groups. Having an understanding of both worlds, assurance and advisory services for family-run enterprises and Kevin tries to be an advocate, mentor, and listening ear for his non-profit organizations. Luc is enthusiastic to be a part of a peers. cause that strives to create opportunities for families impacted by autism. Jennifer Neal (2nd Year - Treasurer) – CPA, CMA - Jennifer is the mother of two boys (12 and 13 years old) one of whom is living Angela Kemble (1st year) - Angela is a mother of two teenage with autism. As a designated accountant, Jennifer has spent daughters, the oldest having been diagnosed with autism at over 20 years working in finance, and previously served on the three and half years of age. Angela resides with her husband CMA Chapter Executive Board. Jennifer currently works for in the small northern town of Athabasca, and is Habitat for Humanity - Edmonton Society, as Controller. She is currently the Executive Director for the Northwest Central passionate about helping others, giving back to the community Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder Network. She looks forward to in a meaningful way and being a strong advocate for her son. using her education and experience to assist Autism Edmonton and is eager to learn all she can from those already involved Dr. Yun-Csang Ghimn (6th Year - Secretary) - Yun has been a with the organization. member of Autism Edmonton for many years and has done extensive work with other non-profit groups, especially in the Gabrielle Heselton (1st year) - Gabrielle is a special education area of research (ethics) and policy development. Having a teacher with 20 years’ experience working with individuals visible-minority background, he taught indigenous students and with developmental disabilities. She has taught the last 7 has successfully advocated cultural diversity and human rights. years in programs specifically designed for children and students with autism. Gabrielle has an M.Ed. in Special Members at Large Education from the University of Alberta and is returning to school to pursue a degree in Counselling Psychology, focusing Dr. Keith Goulden (5th year) – Keith is a Developmental on research in the area of mental health and autism. Gabrielle Pediatrician with an interest in supporting children with autism is passionate about working with the autism community, and their families. He has worked at the Glenrose providing support to individuals and families and advocating Rehabilitation Hospital/University of Alberta for 21 years, and for acceptance and understanding. is currently the Lead Autism Specialist for the local Autism Treatment Network site. Camila Silvestre (1st year) - Camila is a mother to a four-year old, bubbly energetic boy diagnosed with moderate autism. Mohammad Rauf (3rd Year) – Mohammad is a brother to a Camila has worked in the oil and gas industry for ten years developmentally disabled 40-year old. Mohammad is an IT and is currently employed as a Senior Lab Technologist with a Project Manager and leads the design and development of Chemical Engineering background and runs a business technology solutions with local partners. He believes in social development company on the side. She is inclusion, intellectual stimulation, and holistic well-being of passionate about promoting awareness and inclusion of autism disabled and autistic members and strongly believes in the potential and uniqueness behind the brilliant minds of individuals with autism.

4 Following the Live auction, Anita Ferri presented the OPENING DOORS Opening Doors Award to Isabel Henderson, honouring her for the difference she has made through her leadership as FOR AUTISM GALA the Senior Operating Officer at the Glenrose Rehabilitation Hospital. We envision a community where all people with autism are valued and have a life filled One of the highlights of the evening was our guest with possibilities speaker, Kyle Lobb. He bravely took the stage to share his personal stories of how being diagnosed with autism On October 27, 2017, the Opening Doors for Autism Gala allowed him to find his hidden talents and pursue his brought together a passionate community, as more than 500 passion for helping others overcome their barriers in spite honourable guests joined the Autism Edmonton’s most of the challenges they face. Today Kyle is very engaged important bi-annual fundraising event which took place at with Autism Edmonton and works for its respite program Northlands EXPO Centre. Occasio where he helps youth with autism build a stronger foundation for social interaction and personal We were fortunate to receive support from many local confidence. In the past, he has also helped out with the organizations, led by our Title sponsor – Cameron delivery of DiversiFit, a program designed to teach the Corporation. Thanks to the collective support of our fundamentals of physical fitness, nutrition and healthy sponsors, donors and supporters, our Gala raised over lifestyle habits to children with autism aged 10 to 18 and $660,000! their caregivers and families.

These proceeds will be invaluable in helping Autism Edmonton expand its programs and services and continue working with community partners to ensure that people with autism have access to life-long support.

The Gala night was a smash success. Upon arrival, our guests were greeted by the Autism Edmonton leadership team and invited to the pre-dinner reception. Right from the start, the energy in the crowd was contagious. Soft, uplifting music filled the ballroom and set the tone for friendly and engaging conversations throughout the evening.

At 7:00 p.m., just before the commencement of the dinner, our Gala Committee co-chairs Tina Naqvi-Rota and Gino Ferri opened the evening by welcoming the guests and acknowledging the help of those whose commitment allows Autism Edmonton to continue supporting people on the autism spectrum and their families. From left to right: Adarius Bowman, Edmonton Eskimos player, Throughout the evening, guests were able to bid on live and #GetToKnow partner and Adarius4Autism Inc. President. silent auction items ranging from hockey jerseys to a trip to Greece. Inspired by Danny Hooper, a renowned Fundraising Jaden Lake and his father Hon. Mike Lake, PC, MP, Edmonton– Auctioneer, to give generously, guests raised their paddles Wetaskiwin and advocate for individuals with special abilities/needs & high to help people with autism live their lives to the their families fullest. Kyle Lobb, Opening Doors for Autism guest speaker, Autism Edmonton employee and self-advocate

5 The night was capped off with the Big Ask presentation, which drew guests’ attention to the service gaps faced by adults with autism. The presentation made the case for support for Autism Edmonton’s programs including the Pantry Program, Subsidy Program and counselling services that provide new opportunities for adults on the spectrum.

Next, a raffle draw was held, and three lucky winners got to receive incredible prizes. However, the winners generously decided to return the prizes to the Society so that they could be re-auctioned to gather extra funds in support of people with autism. Live painting performed by artist Julie Witten-Land

Autism Edmonton’s President, David Jardine, delivered the closing remarks to the evening, but the attendees did not Many people contributed to the success of our Gala. It was a hurry to leave the room and stayed late to network and massive undertaking, made possible only through the enjoy the wonderful music of the Don Berner Quartet. heartfelt dedication and hard work of an army of volunteers, donors, staff members, board members, and supporters.

Once again, we would like to extend our sincere appreciation to our donors, patrons, and sponsors, for helping Autism Edmonton grow and sustain the many vital services we provide to families and individuals living with autism.

Finally, a huge thank you to our Gala Committee for their outstanding dedication in making the night of the Gala one to remember!

Thank you to everyone who attended. Mark your calendars as this bi-annual event is not to miss for 2019!

Fundraising aside, our Gala’s goal was to raise awareness, acceptance and understanding of autism. Moreover, we aimed to engage new individuals and organizations who care about people with autism and want to invest in their future.

Gala Committee co-chairs Gino Ferri and Tina Naqvi-Rota 6 THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS! We are sincerely thankful for the contributions of our sponsors. Please consider supporting the community- minded businesses who have been so generous with their support for Autism Edmonton's work and our 2017 "Opening Doors for Autism" Gala.

Congratulations to Gino Ferri on receiving the Sovereign's Medal for Volunteers!

Gino Ferri was recognized for his dedication to Autism Edmonton and improving support services for Albertans on the autism spectrum through his work with local and provincial organizations and by influencing legislation.

THANK YOU TO OUR VOLUNTEERS! In addition to our incredibly generous THANK YOU TO OUR GALA VOLUNTEERS: sponsors, we are also tremendously indebted to our hardworking Gala Adam Li Jean Ashmore Shane McRitchie Committee and volunteers. Aliya Rota Jesse Orjasaeter Shawna Bannerman Amanda Lacombe Joanne Boothby Shayla Tellier HONORARY CHAIRPERSONS: Angela Jenkins Joanne Steblyk Steve Hutchison Gino Ferri and Tina Naqvi-Rota Anna Richardson Jordan England Steve Steblyk April Meyer Karly Lensink Tammy Gartner COMMITTEE MEMBERS: Becki Peterson Khalid Bacchus Terese-Gayle Ferri Breena Antoniuk Kristine Meyer Tiffaney Keeping Anita Ferri Camelia Vokey Laura Walker Vance Steblyk Carole Anne Patenaude Chad Rechlo Lianne White Xilin Chen Chelsie Hutchinson Chelsea Drapaka Madi Dombroski Zak Hale Jean Ashmore Cherie McKeever Marcus Potvin Jennifer Neal Cody Obrigewitch Marguerite Prefontaine Kate Wallace Colby Campbell Max Lukenbach Iryna Bajraktari Don Corey Michele Chadukiewich Liane Cournoyer Doug Murray Pam Rhoades Linday Lesmeister Elaine Garcia Rob McRitchie Nicole Tersigni Gina Ferri Sandra Bokovay Tracee Baird Jason Chadukiewich Sandra Svenurggaard

7 NEW AT AUTISM EDMONTON: LAUNCH INTO LIFE!

Although we most often hear about autism in children, it is Autism Edmonton is excited to offer Launch into Life! – a important to emphasize that autism does not affect just kids. short workshop that focuses on helping parents plan and Autism is a lifelong condition which does not go away in prepare for their child’s transition to adulthood. adulthood. Children with autism grow up to be adults with autism. But very often, as they grow up, they struggle to fit “Planning for the future can be hard to do not just because into society, find work and live on their own. it’s hard to find time to do it, but also because thinking about the future can feel scary,” says Dr. Katelyn Lowe, the Adults with autism face major hardships in their lives, developer of the Launch Program at the Sinneave Family especially in the absence of supports and services. These Foundation in Calgary. challenges have significant implications not only for the individuals themselves but also for their families and society The Launch Program began by helping families create at large. The following are a few examples. individualized transition plans one family at a time. Over time, the program evolved into a group-based workshop High unemployment – It is estimated that over 80 format to allow families to come together to share their percent of Canadians with autism are unemployed. experiences, connect, and learn from each other. Often as Moreover, research shows that young adults on the children get older, some parents can feel isolated from others spectrum are more likely to be unemployed than going through the same transitions (e.g., puberty, high school their peers with other disabilities. ending, and turning 18). In addition to workshops offered at Social isolation – Facing a lack of understanding the Ability Hub in Calgary, Launch into Life! has been offered from the society, people living with autism and in British Columbia and Ontario in partnership with seven their families often become isolated and develop autism organizations. mental health problems. Low life expectancy and high suicide rates – For “The transition planning process can begin at any age, but we people with autism in Sweden for example, life recommend that families begin thinking about creating a expectancy is a mere 40 years, and suicide rates plan for adulthood well before their child leaves high school. are elevated. Research in the US shows that 66 Starting early and having a shared vision for the future is key percent of adults newly diagnosed with Asperger to creating a plan that works for everyone,” adds Dr. Lowe. syndrome report to having contemplated suicide. High dependence on families – Most often parents Transition planning helps individuals and their families make are the primary caretaker, educator, and financial informed choices around future living arrangements, supporter of their children with autism. But what education and employment, finances, and community and is going to happen to these individuals once their social involvement. Each individual with autism is unique and parents are no longer able to care for them? transitioning may go smoothly or take longer and be more Unfulfilled potential – Given their unique challenging depending on the person. But with support and capabilities in sciences and arts, people with careful planning, many individuals with autism can autism can provide unique contributions in a successfully prepare for adulthood. number of areas. When left untapped, this unfulfilled potential represents a huge loss to the “Shared vision is crucial in transition planning. It is important society. that you and your child are on the same page and participate in making decisions together, as much as possible,” These challenges and unmet needs are real and deserve comments Dr. Katelyn Lowe. the recognition and attention of everyone. How can we work together to help adults with autism have the best Launch into Life! consists of three workshops that will be possible quality of life? It is critical to ensure that children offered on the following dates: with autism can successfully transition into adulthood, find a job, get involved in the community, find a place to live, and continue education. Monday, February 26, 2018, 7-9 p.m. Monday, March 5, 2018, 7-9 p.m. Monday, March 12, 2018, 7-9 p.m. To register, please contact [email protected]. The admission fee for three days is $75, which includes refreshments and program materials. These workshops are open to any parent of a youth who lives with autism. Subsidized tickets are available for those who require financial assistance.

8 COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS: CREATING MEANINGFUL SOCIAL OPPORTUNITIES When asked what makes their life meaningful, most If you missed our first gathering, do not worry. We people refer to relationships. Here at Autism have planned a variety of other recreation and Edmonton, we strive to create opportunities for our leisure activities to come, including trips to community members to grow such relationships. Edmonton attractions, BBQs and many others! To achieve this goal, we are excited to launch a series of outings – Community Connections – which Better yet, our events are free of charge (admission are open to people with or without autism, their fee to sites visited might apply), and everyone is family members, friends, or support people. welcome. This initiative is organized around a simple idea: we would like to offer more opportunities for leisure Please stay tuned and follow our calendar updates and socialization. at www.autismedmonton.org or announcements on Facebook (www.facebook/AutismEdmonton) and Bringing together people of different ages and Twitter (@AutismEdmonton). interests helps connect those who might not be able to meet through other services or discussion groups we offer. Moreover, people with no relations to autism are welcome to attend Community Connections, which allows us to raise understanding of autism and challenge the misconception that people living with autism are anti-social.

On October 21st, we hosted our first Community Connections of the year. The event was organized at the Prairie Garden & Adventure Farm, north of the city, near Bon Accord. Attended by a hundred members, this family-friendly activity was a chance to enjoy Edmonton's beautiful countryside.

Moreover, with the Haunted Pumpkin Festival going on at the Farm, our participants got to explore over 50 fun Halloween-themed activities including puppet shows, the haunted farm house, scarecrow making and much more.

We had rented a greenhouse pavilion for the members to warm up after running around the huge 35-acre farm and offered them some treats, beverages, arts, and crafts to keep busy while taking a break.

9 CELEBRATING A DECADE OF SERVICE

It is ten years since Patricia Terrett began working for Autism Edmonton. But she says her work is far from finished.

It all started in 2007 when Patricia went to a birthday party of her friend’s daughter.

“I had a friend whose little girl was so cute, such a sweetie, and because of the development of her language and the way she was acting I thought she was around 18 months old. And to my surprise, I discovered that she was turning three.”

This developmental delay made Patricia, who has a degree in Applied Psychology, think that the child might have autism. To help the family, she connected them with Autism Edmonton, where one of her former classmates, Deborah Barrett, was involved at that time. Further, Patricia took an active role in helping the family navigate their options for services. My job is to give

“About the fifth time I called Deborah back to consult on what families hope my friends should do next, she asked if I would like to help out at the office since I was very interested in the field of autism.”

Patricia took on this opportunity eagerly and began assisting “Many people who call us are very distressed, and if I am with phone counselling. able to make them feel less frantic, that is a success. I want to be the second last phone call they make. And “I’ve started as a volunteer at four hours a week, and very soon the reason is that when people are phoning around from we discovered that, with the number of calls coming in, four agency to agency, they might not find all information in hours was not enough time, and so hours were extended and I one place, which might be discouraging. I am trying to was hired.” connect them to the resources they are looking for, so they can get the right answers quickly.” Patricia describes her job as “giving families hope." Helping people is very important to her, and it is one of the main Because Patricia wanted to develop the idea of reasons for why she decided to study psychology and get providing targeted referrals, she started “Next Steps”, an involved in counselling. She is passionate about helping online guide on autism-related resources. This guide families to get the support they need. aims to make the process of counselling more efficient for the agency’s support team and also to share resources and knowledge with the public through the organization’s website.

NEXT Steps

Visit our website to find links to educational, medical and other relevant community supports for:

Preschool - Birth to 5 years School aged - 6 to 12 years Teenagers - 13 to 17 years Adult - 18 years + 10 “We try to keep the guide as simple and user-friendly as Moving forward, Patricia would like to continue possible so that people can navigate it easily. We also working on supporting families, identifying update its content quarterly to keep the information what their problems are, advocating for current. The fact is that when we put the Next Steps services, and being responsive to the needs of online, it was welcomed not just by families but also by all people with autism. professionals. I often meet social workers who say they look at the guide all the time.” "Autism Edmonton is a place Furthermore, the number of services and supports for where people can build hope; people with autism and their families is growing every year. Patricia recounts that when she started working for where they can get direction in Autism Edmonton, the situation was very different. She says that just around 20 years ago, autism was not even times of perplexity; where we can coming up in general discussions in the community. It was actively lead to change in the not on people’s radar. During the past decade, awareness about autism has increased dramatically, which is essential community.” to creating a truly inclusive society. In her spare time Patricia likes spending time with her “It is very exciting to see more and more parents of grandchildren and reading mystery stories. children with autism involved in the autism community. I also feel very happy that now we even have an adult clinic “It is easy to get stuck in my work, which might make me in Edmonton. It used to be very hard to find a way to get lose hope and be less helpful. The reason I enjoy mysteries adults diagnosed. This is huge progress and a great start to is that you know in the end everything will be figured out. help adults on the spectrum.” This is how I cultivate hope for myself.”

11 WITH AN AUTISM Q&A EDMONTON SUPPORTER

Sweat for Autism, a marathon-style fitness fundraiser, took At NO MORE EXCUSES INC. our vision is to “become place on August 27, 2017, and raised $10,000 for the stronger by building others up”. It means that we ongoing funding of health and wellness programs to serve invite all members of our community into our fold - the needs of people with autism in our community. This our door is always open. We take great pride in being event was made possible only through the generosity of NO a fully inclusive facility, with members of all ages, MORE EXCUSES INC. fitness studio. Recently we sat down abilities and lifestyles. with the studio’s owner, Cheryl Schneider, to learn about her experience organizing the event that benefited Autism – How did your clients respond to Sweat for Autism? Edmonton. – The response to the event was overwhelmingly – Tell us a little bit about yourself and give us a brief positive. Our members rallied for this cause and overview of what you do in your work. participated actively through their donations, volunteer efforts, participation and promotion of the – I have been a health and fitness leader in Edmonton for project. They were excited to be involved in over twelve years, working in various facilities, schools, and something that hit so close to home. communities. Now I am involved with our newest studio which opened in 2016. Our fitness community has been recognized multiple times by media such as the Edmonton Journal and Vue Weekly Magazine as the top studio in our City.

– Did you have any life-changing experiences that put you on the path that led you to doing what you’re doing today?

– I suspect that most people have some stories that led to them to want to help others in meaningful ways. I just want to give back to the community that helped me grow my dream. I want to make sure that others are given the opportunity to live their best lives and spread the vision that “we become stronger by building others up”.

– Why did you decide to fundraise for Autism Edmonton? Did a particular event inspire you?

– When Zita, who is one of our instructors and a deeply ingrained member of our fitness family, approached me with On the right - Cheryl Schneider, the owner of the idea of a fundraiser, we immediately recognized it as an NO MORE EXCUSES opportunity to give back to the community. NO MORE EXCUSES INC. is like a big family caring for one another, and Zita (and her son, Sam who is on the spectrum) are a part of – Besides fundraising, what goals did Sweat for our family. That is why supporting Autism Edmonton and Autism help achieve? DiversiFit, a program Zita runs in collaboration with Autism Edmonton, are important for our community. – Well, having fun and getting sweaty together are always a focus of the work we do. But we also had – Is there any correlation between the vision of NO MORE an opportunity to do some education around Autism, EXCUSES and Autism Edmonton? Inclusion, Diversifit, and the importance of fitness access for all people. – Like Autism Edmonton, we are committed to building a kinder, more accepting, and more inclusive community for – What does your chosen charity mean to you? everyone. – Autism Edmonton is making a difference in the lives of people who matter a great deal to me. I am very grateful for the work they do.

12 Physical activity benefits every individual, but it has particular advantages for people on the autism spectrum. Having a business such as NO MORE EXCUSES INC. support Autism Edmonton not only in raising much-needed funding but also general awareness in the community is just wonderful.

We are extremely grateful to the NO MORE EXCUSES Inc. studio, Cheryl Schneider and Zita Dube- Lockhart, the creator and owner of DiversiFit and an active Autism Edmonton member, for raising funds for Autism Edmonton’s programs.

Money raised through Sweat for Autism will fund DiversiFit Program for different age groups.

DiversiFit's aim is to offer fitness programming that: is inclusive of all abilities and fitness levels instills values of body positivity, empowerment and self-efficacy teaches sustainable behaviour-change patterns promotes fitness for the entire family DiversiFit is a seven-week series of personalized training sessions and learning. Each session is 1.5 hours long and includes a physical/training component as well as a workshop/learning component. Participants get to work directly with trainers to learn the fundamentals needed to safely train on their own. All exercise programming is designed in accordance with CSEP and AFLCA recommendations.

DiversiFit Children and Youth Program

When: January 20 through March 3, 1-2.30 p.m. Where: NO MORE EXCUSES fitness studio (8111 43 St NW, Edmonton) Cost: $50 (family admission fee - two parents and their children)

DiversiFit Adult Program

When: February 8 through March 22, 1-2.30 p.m. Where: February 8-22 - Autism Edmonton programming space; March 1-22 - NAIT Fitness Centre. Cost: $50 (includes the participation cost of a caregiver or family member if applicable). Subsidized tickets are available for those who require financial assistance.

If you would like to participate in DiversiFit, please email us at [email protected].

13 SANTA WELCOMES MORE #GETTOKNOW CHILDREN OF ALL SESSION TO BE AGES & ABILITIES DELIVERED IN 2018! A trip to the mall to take a photo with Santa is a Autism Edmonton is committed to ensuring that special event for all families, but the holiday hustle every person on the autism spectrum has the can be overwhelming for children with autism. Loud opportunity to succeed and achieve to his or her noises, bright lights, and crowds are typically the highest potential. We also believe that provision things that cause anxiety for a person living with of more resources about autism would be autism. extremely valuable in achieving this goal.

For the second year, teamed up In 2017, Autism Edmonton partnered with the with Autism Edmonton to run the Silent Santa Adarius4Autism (A4A) to launch a pilot project - program, which offered an opportunity for children #GetToKnow. with autism to have an enjoyable Santa visit in a quieter and sensory-friendly environment. The Silent The #GetToKnow project is a unique and Santa sessions were offered by appointment from 9:00 interactive presentation for grades 4-12 that is a.m. to 10:50 a.m. on November 26, December 3 and intended to promote awareness and acceptance 17, and each session was fully booked. Families had of Autism Spectrum Disorder. to schedule a visit to avoid the lineup because waiting in long queues can be stressful for many The presentation can accommodate up to 150 children with autism. students per session. It is delivered in an active and engaging format that gets the students out Autism Edmonton was thrilled to be involved in this of their desks and moving around, while initiative by offering an “Autism 101” training to Mr. participating in exercises that allow them to and Mrs. Claus to help them prepare for the activity. experience some of the challenges that people with autism may face. The presentation begins “Silent Santa allows families with children on the with a surprise sensory experience, requiring autism spectrums to experience a Santa visit in a students to compete with the demanding and comforting environment,” says Brooke Pinsky, Autism unexpected sensory environment to complete Edmonton’s Support Services Manager. basic physical exercises.

To create a more sensory-friendly environment, the In the upcoming year, we hope to deliver more music was kept off and the lights were slightly #GetToKnow sessions in schools in Edmonton dimmer. The event was held before the opening of and the area. Please get in touch with us if you Londonderry to ensure there was minimal traffic and are interested in this presentation to be provided noise throughout the mall. to a school you work at, or to one your child attends. Moreover, it is exciting that more and more malls are trying to make the Christmas tradition more inclusive - and Town Centre were also offering visits with Santa for children with special needs.

Next year, Autism Edmonton is hoping to host a Santa School where Santas working at malls across the city can learn about how to best support children on the autism spectrum.

14 STRESS-REDUCING MARK YOUR HOLIDAY TIPS FOR CALENDARS FOR CHILDREN WITH THE 2018 CYCLE AUTISM FOR AUTISM! Christmas certainly is not one of the most autism-friendly On Sunday, June 3, 2018, Autism Edmonton holidays. Loud music and bright lights, as well as changes will be holding its ninth annual Cycle for in routine and attending family gatherings, can be Autism. difficult and stressful for children with autism. We would like to share some tips that can help families lessen the Cycle for Autism is a fun and inclusive event stress of the holiday season and make it a more enjoyable held each year to increase acceptance of experience for everyone. autism in our community and raise essential funds for Autism Edmonton. Participants can Set expectations by discussing with your child run, roll, walk or cycle… whatever gets them holiday traditions to make the change easier to around the route! This is a local event and adjust to. 100% of the proceeds stay right here in the Use visuals and schedules. Make sure the child Edmonton area. knows the plan for each day as soon as you know it. Cycle for Autism is so much more than just a If you are planning to travel, be prepared to fundraiser. It is meant to bring our families bring activities that will keep your child together and connect them with the comfortable for long periods of time. Also, make community and other resources. As such, we sure you are bringing your kid's favourite games have invited some of our awesome community and books. partners to set up information tables in our Practice opening gifts, taking turns and waiting Resource Fair and host a few fun activities for for others, and giving gifts. the kids. Prepare for new environments by describing the place you will be visiting and telling about the people and animals that will be there as well as any food that may be served. Decorate in gradual stages to give your child time to get used to the change and also engage your child as much as possible in this process of decorating. Flashing lights can disturb some children on the spectrum. To see how your child will respond to such decorations, experience these items in a store or a friend's home first.

Autism Edmonton wishes you all a safe, happy, relaxing holiday season. It can be full of challenges, but we hope you all find the perfect way to celebrate with your own uniquely wonderful family.

15 Winter Programming

Does your son or daughter have autism?

Particip ating fa praise O milies opp ccasio Are you looking for social ortuni for prog ties it g ram pa ives to pra rticipa & recreational opportunities? ctice so nts with p cial skil eers an ls more a d get ctive in comm the OCCASIO HELPS unity.

Develop social connections Strengthen independence Try new activities Gain confidence

Days offered: Tuesday, Saturday, every second Sunday and some PD Days Participants register on an activity-by-activity basis through their Occasio account on the Autism Edmonton website. This helps ensure that the users are attending activities that interest them and use respite as the family requires it.

Learn more at autismedmonton.org/occasio or call 780-453-3971 ext. 228.