1. Blackstone Academy Charter Schools Senior Project Requirement. Choose a community problem that we are interested in. Think of a solution to our problem. Then work to solve it. * We also have to write a research paper on our problem *

2. My Senior Project AUTISM Community issue Lack of Knowledge on Autism. Solution to the issue. Start informing people in general (Charter School Meeting) Advisory Activity: Teaching students in my school and have workshop of activities. Question: What do we need to do to help people with Autism integrate into society?

3. What do we need to do to help people with Autism integrate into society?

4. What is Autism? Autism is a complex developmental disability. A developmental disability is a mental or physical problem and people with them have struggles with language, mobility, learning, and independent living. Appears during the first three years of life, its a brain disorder that affects normal functioning in the brain. Children and adults with autism show difficulties in verbal and non-verbal communication and social interactions. Asperger's is a form of Autism but, more high functioning. Asperger Syndrome is a type of pervasive developmental disorder. A pervasive developmental disorder is a group conditions that consist of delays in development of regular everyday life skills, social skills & creativity skills. Scientists till this day do not the causes of Autism.

5. What is retardation? Are people with autism retarded? Retardation is when someone has delays in skills that are expected at certain ages such as: communication, social skills, functional academic skills and motor skills. BUT, the question is, does that description of retardation describe people with autism? IT DOES ! But after talking to many mothers and teachers, they believe otherwise. Mothers feel that when their Autistic child is growing up, their skills begin to become stronger. One of these skills is communication. They can go from not talking at all to talking too much – Mariam, a mother of a 17 year autistic child from Cranston, RI. The one thing about autism is, its unpredictable. You never know whats going to happen with your child. Itll happen when theyre ready

6. How do schools & teachers help children with autism? Though autistic children have short attention spans and do not have the social skills that non-autistic children have, they can still learn. IDEA (The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act) is designed to protect the rights of students with disabilities by ensuring that everyone receives a free, appropriate public education, regardless of their ability. IDEA strives not only to grant equal access to students with disabilities, but also to provide additional special education services and procedural safeguards.

7. What do work places do to help autistic employees to fit in? A decade ago opportunities for autistic people were limited for the simple fact that people lacked awareness of autism. BUT!, Today autism awareness and support services for people with autism have led to more opportunities for autistic adults in every level of the job market. More employers are aware that many people with autism have valuable talents that can benefit their companies. Training Preparation & Support There can be some challenges such as, sensory issues, misunderstandings, routine changes, etc.

8. How do people with autism deal with their Autism? Some dont at all Therapy The Autism Project of Rhode Island This can train parents which will help children and people feel better about their Autism because others understand them. Home based therapy

9. Where to go? Autism Project of Rhode Island. Johnston, RI Meeting Street School. Providence, RI Groden Center. Providence, RI Cedarr Of Rhode Island. Pawtucket, RI These are few of many places children and families can go to for any questions or help with Autism.

10. Any Questions?

11. Advisory Pairs: Brian Webbs Advisory – Johns Advisory (Johns Room) - Jenyliz Marilyns Advisory – Lizs Advisory (Lizs Room) - Sebastian Pauls Advisory – Gils Advisory (Pauls Room) - Joshua Beths Advisory – Sarahs Advisory (Sarahs Room) - Anjely Luiss Advisory – Diegos Advisory (Marilyns Room) - Freddy Amys Advisory – Nexcys Advisory (Amys Room) - Yashia

12. WORK CITED "Autistic People and the Workplace - LoveToKnow Autism." Autism Spectrum Disorders | Signs of Autism. Web. 24 Feb. 2011.. Children With Autism In Rhode Island. Dec. 2003. Web. 24 Feb. 2011.. Donvan, John, and Caren Zucker. "Autisms First Child - Magazine - The Atlantic." The Atlantic News and Analysis on Politics, Business, Culture, Technology, National, International, and Food – TheAtlantic.com. Oct. 2010. Web. 24 Feb. 2011.. "Formal DSM-IV-TR (2000) Recognized Criteria for Mental Retardation - Mental Retardation (Intellectual Disabilities)." Mental Health, Depression, Anxiety, Wellness, Family & Relationship Issues, Sexual Disorders & ADHD Medications. 24 Aug. 2006. Web. 24 Feb. 2011..