Graf 14

I've thought a lot about where I can find information for my isearch paper on how high functioning autistics (HFA) can be helped to transistion into adulthood. I want to go beyond the web-based sources of information, although I think I will rely on them, too. I called my local school and talked with someone in the Special Education Department and she referred my to my local Penquis office. I have had a hard time connecting with the person in charge of the Autism program; trying to reach her by telephone and figuring out a time when we can get together. We each have busy work schedules, so I suggested to her that if she has an email address, maybe I could email her my questions and she could answer them when she has time. She thought that was a good idea, and will also put me in touch with someone else she knows that might be able to help me. I just finished reading a book called "Let Me Hear Your Voice" that dealt with a family with two autistic children and how they were able to help them through intensive behavior therapy. This month's "Family Circle" magazine also has an article on a young man whose family used behavior therapy when he was younger and he is now self sufficient, with three jobs and other accomplishments.

I feel I have a broad spectrum of sources that will help me develop my research paper and answer questions I have about how HFA can be supported and helped to become self sufficient in the "normal" world. I feel this paper may give my own family ideas on how to help my grandson Eric as he gets older.