Theraputic Martial Arts & Activity Program

Designed to meet the unique needs of children with ADHD, Asperger's, PDD-NOS, and other related non-verbal learning disabilities. Increase self-respect, self-control & coordination; improve creative problem solving; develop academic learning strategies; enhance social skills and personal responsibility.

10-week program session - 90 minutes per week
Starts Tuesday, January 30, 2008 at 6:00 pm
Summit Academy School; 710 Turnpike Street, Stoughton, MA 02072
For additional information please contact:
Donna DiMezza: @ 978-466-8002 or 24hr line: 800-422-5753

Coaching Individuals with Asperger Syndrome and Related Disorders

A two-day workshop for parents and professionals

Presented by Ellen Korin, MEd

February 4 – 5, 2008 at SERESC in Bedford, New Hampshire
April 9 – 10, 2008 at The Espousal Center in Waltham, Massachusetts

Sponsored by the Center for Autism Spectrum Disorders Training at Antioch University New England

For more information or registration see:
www.antiochne.edu/ap/ce/coachinASP.cfm

Innovative Hockey Program Offered to Disabled Children

For the first time, an innovative beginner hockey program is being offered to children, ages 5 to 14, with Down Syndrome, Autism (or any other developmental disability), as part of the Pawtucket Youth Hockey Association "Learn to Skate / Instructional Hockey". It is open to any boy or girl who is physically able to play, but would be unable to participate in any other organized program due to his or her developmental disability. Participants do not need to know how to skate, but they must be free from any physical or medical condition that could cause them to do harm to themselves or to other participants during participation. A physical examination form must be completed by the child’s physician approving their participation.

The aim of the program is to get to know both parent and player so as to be more effective in working with each of the athletes during the time together at the rink. Parents are strongly encouraged to work with the coaches in order that each child receives the best possible skating and social experience.

The program is staffed with coaches who are trained and certified from the USA Hockey Coaching Education Program. The program has also obtained the services of a special-needs professional who will be evaluating the sessions and working as a consultant for the on-ice coaches.

All participants will be registered and insured under the same provision that USA Hockey provides for all registered athletes. In addition, USA Hockey waives all registration and insurance fees for the first year for players enrolling in the Disabled Division.

The first day on the ice will be at 1:45 PM on Saturday October 27th at Dennis Lynch Arena, 25 Andrew Ferland Way, Pawtucket, RI. At this time our schedule is not complete. The program is expected to continue to, at least, December, with the aim running, uninterrupted, through March. New applicants are welcome to register at any time throughout the season. At this time our schedule is not complete. The program is expected to run to, at least, December, with the aim of having it run, uninterrupted, through March.

Coach Letourneau and Coach Nadeau wish to extend their gratitude to the Pawtucket Youth Hockey Association (PYHA) which has allowed the program to participate as a division within their organization. More information will be forthcoming on www.pawtuckethockey.org.

To schedule an interview, a photo opportunity, or request additional information, contact:

Gerry Letourneau; 508 252-9095; gpletourneau@aol.com

Ken Nadeau; 508 761-4575; ntac3@verizon.net

Seeking Children and Young Adults as Participants for Pragmatic Language Groups

A Pragmatic Language Group for 7,8 and 9 year olds with Asperger Syndrome, High-Functioning Autism or Non-Verbal Learning Disabilities or other social communication challenges will meet this winter/spring at Antioch University New England in Keene, NH for four sessions. This group will be a good way to introduce your child to social communication skill training or supplement training that they are currently receiving. The children's group will meet on Saturdays, February 2, Feb. 23, March 15 and April 5 from 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. The children will do activities that explicitly teach the conversational and listening hierarchies, deciphering body language, and organizing their personal narratives so that listeners have enough context to follow along. The groups are designed to be fun and a social experience and are provided at no-cost to participants.

A similar group for young adults who are in their late teens or early twenties is also planned. Their curriculum will incorporate the same basic curriculum as it applies to life in the community, education, and the workplace. They will meet five times on January 12, Feb. 2, Feb. 23, March 15 and April 5 from 1;30 - 2:30, all Saturdays.

The groups will be supervised by Elsa Abele, CCC, SLP. She is a speech-language pathologist with a special interest in Pragmatic Language Disorders, particularly as they effect social communication. She has retired her academic and clinical appointment at Boston University, Sargent College of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences in the Program in Commincation Sciences at Disorders. She is currently teaching in the Autism Spectrum Disorders Certificate Program at Antioch University New England. Students in the Autism Spectrum Disorders Certificate Program will be co-leading the groups.

We are asking that each participant agree to meet with the group for the full number of semester meetings. The major group goals are 1. To learn the conversational and listening hierarchies and how to apply them in social interaction 2. To learn how to organize and do personal event narratives, those mini monologues in conversation that connect us with others by telling about events and interest in our lives and help to form the beginnings of friendships 3. And to learn to do"self talk" or verbally mediated problem solving that is both evaluative and reflective so that the person can "filter" their thoughts and make judgements about what to say or do.

For more information or be considered for participation in a group please email Elsa Abele at reinelsa@cs. com or contact Shelley Viles, Director of the Autism Spectrum Disoorders Certificate Program at sviles@antiochne.edu or 603-283-2145.

New Workshop!
Disclosing Asperger’s and NLD in the Workplace
When, How, and Whether to Do It

Wednesday, March 5, 2008
7:00 – 9:30pm
Temple Sinai
50 Sewall Avenue, Brookline, MA
Accessible from the C Line Coolidge Corner station; easy street parking

Presented by: Barbara Bissonnette, Principal, Forward Motion Coaching, and Lee Rachel Jurman, Lead Disability Advocate, Personal Disability Consulting

One of the biggest concerns of people with Asperger’s Syndrome and NLD is whether to disclose their disability to a prospective or current employer. This workshop provides the tools and information you need to decide if disclosure is the right option for you. Whether you are preparing to look for work, actively interviewing or currently employed, you’ll learn how to develop a solution-focused strategy that highlights your abilities rather than your limitations.

Topics include:

• The definition of “disability” according to the Americans with Disabilities Act and Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination
• How the ADA and MCAD protect individuals in the workplace
• What employers can and cannot ask relative to a disability
• The risks and benefits of disclosing and best times in the job cycle to mention a disability
• What constitutes a “reasonable accommodation” (and not!)
• Practical steps for developing an effective disclosure statement
• Many more practical tips and helpful resources

Seating is limited so register early!
Registration forms are available at ForwardMotion.info and personaldisability.com.
Or, email Barbara Bissonnette at ForwardMotion@charter.net.

Fees:
Single attendee: $30
Two people from the same family: $50
Each additional person from the same family: $20 (for example, 3 people from the same family can attend for $70; 4 people from the same family can attend for $90; etc.)

THE LADDERS PROGRAM IS PLEASED TO ANNOUNCE THE 1st:

Roger A. Bauman M.D. Parent Lecture Series on Autism Spectrum Disorders 2008

• When: Wednesday Evenings in January through June 2008, 6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
• Where: Charles River ARC, 59 E. Militia Heights Rd, Needham, MA Paul D. Merritt Center.
• Childcare will be provided each night for 10 spots on a first come/first serve basis
• There will be light snacks/coffee provided
• Special thanks to Charles River ARC for their support in providing space
• Click here for most recent schedule and directions. For updates on the schedule visit www.ladders.org

CJP Disabilities Housing Initiative, Jewish Family & Children’s Service

New Shared Living Opportunity for Adults with ASD
Melton Rd, Brighton MA

• Specifically for men (20-30yrs of age), living with ASD (including Asperger’s Syndrome).
• Located in a residential neighborhood in Brighton, ¼ mile from the Green Line
• Designated for 8 individuals who are ready to leave home but need support services to master the skills of independent living including help with paperwork and finances, setting up social/recreational activities, and meal preparation/planning
• Staff in the home 7 days/week and on-call 24 hours per day
• The fee for this program is $2000/month which includes rent, utilities and staff support.

Interested? To learn more about this exciting opportunity, please contact Sandy Slavet at 781-547-5327 ext. 1940.

Sunday Respite Program

JF&CS is pleased to partner with HALO's Family Circle program to provide planned Sunday respite for families caring for children and young adults with severe neurological disorders. The programming consists of a three hour art/music therapy and swimming program on sunday afternoons at the Newton JCC from 1-4 pm.

If you are interested or for more information, please contact Pat Ludwig at 781-647-5327 x 4174

Johns Hopkins University presents
The Autism NetVerse Project
to collect poetry and artwork from individuals on the autism spectrum.

Please visit collaborator Autism Arts website for more information and submission details:
http://www.autismarts.com/gpage4.html2.html

Left-Handed Boys with Autism 11-18 Years Old:
Participate in Brain Imaging Research

Researchers at Boston University School of Medicine are seeking boys ages 11-18 with autism or Asperger's syndrome for a study of brain structure and function using MRI. Participation involves cognitive testing, practice in a pretend brain scanner, and the MRI.

Each participant will receive a picture of his brain and be compensated $50 for the MRI scan. For the cognitive testing, participants will receive reports and be compensated $40.

For more information, please contact our Family Coordinator at 617-414-1304 or ddrp@bu.edu.

Added 01/14/08

Do You Have High-Functioning Autism, Asperger’s Disorder, or PDD-NOS?

Are you between the ages of 21-65?

Are your cognitive abilities within the low average to above average range?

Would you be interested in learning more about yourself and how you feel about relationships and sexuality?

If you answered yes to the above questions, you are eligible to participate in a research study being conducted by researchers at the North-Shore-LIJ Center for Autism and the University of New Brunswick.

The purpose of this study is to better understand sexuality and relationships of adults with high-functioning autism spectrum disorders (ASDs). The information collected from the study may increase knowledge of how best to help teens and adults with ASDs experience healthy sexual development.

Participation in this study involves completion of a set of online questionnaires at www.unbstudy.com that will take between 45 minutes and 1¼ hours to complete.

For more information about this project, please contact:

Shana Nichols, Ph.D., Psychologist at 516-802-8600 or

Sandra Byers, Ph.D., Psychologist at 506-458-7697

Added 11/05/07

Participate in a Research Study at the
Yale University Developmental Neuroimaging Laboratory

WHO: Children and young adults between the ages of 10 and 30 diagnosed with an Autism Spectrum Disorder
WHAT: Free diagnostic evaluation; research study of cognition, social and emotional functioning, and brain structure/function
WHERE: Yale Child Study Center
INVOLVES: MRI scan and cognitive/behavioral assessments

Benefits:

Free diagnostic evaluation and written report by experts in autism spectrum disorders

Monetary honorarium for each attempted MRI scan

Participants receive an additional honorarium for cognitive and behavioral assessments

Visit the Study Website

Added 10/24/07

Finding the Basis of Autism

You are invited to consider participation in ongoing research projects studying how people with ASD learn and understand information. Nancy J. Minshew, M.D., Director of the University of Pittsburgh based Center and an internationally recognized expert in autism, is collaborating with a team of scientists from Carnegie Mellon University. The Autism Centers of Excellence (ACE) program represents a consolidation of two existing programs, the Studies to Advance Autism Research and Treatment (STAART) and Collaborative Programs of Excellence in Autism (CPEA) programs into a single research effort. Research shows that the ability to organize information into categories is critical to language development. The Pittsburgh researchers will use brain imaging techniques to study how infants at risk for autism and toddlers diagnosed with the disorder place information into categories. Researchers will also use brain imaging techniques to study which parts of the brain are activated in people with and without ASD when processing information and emotions.

Click Here for Full Recruitment Brochure

Updated 10/24/07

Research Study Recruitment: High Functioning Autism and Asperger Syndrome

Youths with an Autism Spectrum Disorder, Ages 13-18, Requested for a Research Study

Researchers at McLean Hospital in Belmont, MA invite young people with autism to participate in a perception and memory study on visual processing. You can participate if you

• are between the ages of 13 and 18,
• have an autism spectrum disorder, (including Asperger's syndrome)
• have no history of neurological conditions (like a seizure or brain injury),
• have no recent history of alcohol or drug abuse (past 4 months),
• have permission from your parents or guardian.

You will be paid up to $120, at $20/hour, for your participation.

If you are interested or would like to learn more about the study, please call Mr. Daniel Norton at 617-855-3609 or e-mail dnorton@mclean.harvard.edu. All inquiries will be kept strictly confidential.

Added 10/17/07

Seeking Participants with a Diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder

Research at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center is investigating whether non-invasive repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation can improve language skills in individuals with autism spectrum disorders.

• Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is an experimental way to transiently activate specific brain areas through the scalp that has been used for the past 20 years in neurology and psychiatry. Safety guidelines have been developed that will be closely followed. Past experience has documented efficacy of repetitive TMS in patients with language problems due to various diseases.
• Study involves 3 visits.
• Subjects will be asked to undergo a neurological exam, neuropsychological assessments, language assessment, MRI, and TMS.
• Study Eligibility: Subjects must be 18-45 years of age, diagnosed with autism spectrum disorders, have no history known genetic disorder (e.g., NF1, tuberous sclerosis), cerebral palsy, frank neurological damage, or significant dysmorphology.
• Subjects will be compensated up to $60 for their participation.

If you are interested, or to learn more, please contact Shirley at 617-667-5229 or sfecteau@bidmc.harvard.edu

Added 08/15/07

Language Acquisition and Processing

At the Lab for Developmental Studies at Harvard University, we are currently seeking participants for a variety of language tasks administered in our lab, in schools and in other community settings. Our studies are designed as short games that we play with the children while their interaction with the experimenter is videotaped. These videotapes are later analyzed by researchers and are only viewed by the Lab for Developmental Studies. All personal information we receive from families is kept confidential. We are looking for children ages 5-10 (though later research may include younger children) who have been diagnosed with high-functioning autism or Asperger's syndrome. For more information or to participate please call our lab at 617-384-8357 or e-mail Amanda at aworek@wjh.harvard.edu.

A link to the Lab for Developmental Studies can be found at wjh.harvard.edu/~lds.

Added 07/25/07

Help Wanted:
Research Specialist/Interviewer for Autism Study

Sargent College of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences at Boston University seeks to hire study interviewers who live in Boston, the surrounding metropolitan area, the South shore and Cape Cod, central Massachusetts, and western Massachusetts to interview mothers of adolescents and adults with autism spectrum disorders about their experiences. Interviews will be completed within the geographical area of the employee's home. Training and interviewing will start in September 2007 and continue through June 2008.

Full Details

Added 07/18/07

Deanne Katz, a Massachusetts college student, is currently doing an educational study on students on the autism spectrum by exploring the disconnect between what services are needed and what is easily available to parents through their school system. Find out more about how you can help, and ultimately obtain the results of this study, by clicking here. Your participation in filling out this brief questionnaire is much appreciated.

Added 07/18/07

Children Ages 3-11 Needed for a Study on Nutrition & Physical Activity

CHildren's Activity & Meal Patterns Study (CHAMPS)

The Eunice Kennedy Shriver Center at the University of Massachusetts Medical School in Waltham, MA is looking for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and typically developing children to participate in a research study to learn more about the eating and activity patterns of children with ASD. We’re looking for all kinds of families to participate whether or not they have concerns about their child’s nutrition or physical activity habits.

CHAMPS Study Details:

• 1-2 visits to the Shriver Center in Waltham, MA (approximately 2 hours each).
• Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder undergo developmental testing.
• Parents complete interviews/questionnaires on developmental and medical history, physical activity, eating patterns, and sensory sensitivity.
• Children wear a very small, lightweight activity monitor for 7 days.
• Parents complete a 3-day food diary on their children’s food intake.
• The child and his/her parent(s) are weighed and measured.
• Parents and children will be compensated for their participation.

For more information or to enroll in the CHAMPS study, please contact Melissa Maslin at (781) 642-0292 or email: ShriverHealth@umassmed.edu

Free Parking Available

Added 07/11/07

Developmental Cognitive Neuroscience Lab University of Connecticut
Director: Inge-Marie Eigsti, Ph.D.

Dr. Eigsti joined the faculty at UConn after completing a post- doctoral fellowship at Columbia University in New York City. Research in our lab is focused on improving the understanding, diagnosis, and treatment of autism and other disabilities. We study how people learn and talk about the world around them. We are especially interested in how basic brain processes influence how we communicate and interact socially with other people. Our projects, which use a combination of computer games and, sometimes, brain imaging (MRI) are designed to be both fun and informative!

We are actively looking for adults with autism spectrum disorders to participate in our studies. Our brain imaging (MRI) study for adolescents and adults age 12 and over takes place at Institute of Living (Hartford Hospital). Participants will be compensated and, for the MRI study, can take home a picture of their brain! If you are interested, or know someone else who might be, please contact us at: (860) 486-6021 or DCNLab@uconn.edu

Added 07/09/07

Participants Needed for Study on Support Groups for Adults with Asperger Syndrome

Kathryn Jantz, a Boston University Masters in Social Work student, will be conducting a survey study of adults in support groups, adults interested in joining a support group, and adults who were in a support group. She hopes that this survey will help her and other clinicans to understand whether or not support gropus are helpful and what is helpful about them. For more information on the study please contact her at kjantz1@gmail.com or (303) 638-9897.

Added 07/09/07

Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatric Research Program, Medford, MA

The Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatric Research Program at Cambridge Health Alliance is currently involved in clinical research trials in the juvenile bipolar disorder, psychotic disorders and Autistic Spectrum Disorders. The research team is led by Dr. Jean Frazier and is supported by a group of professionals including other psychiatrists mentored by Dr. Frazier, Advanced Practice Nurses, neuropsychologists, Statisticians, Child Psychiatrists, Research Coordinators and other interested volunteers. This research program is part of the Cambridge Health Alliance and attracts many individuals from the greater Massachusetts area as well as throughout New England. Several of our collaborations are national and international in scope. This program is unique in that it provides state-of-the-art medical care which can be difficult to access within a managed healthcare system. All of our studies are free of cost, including all tests and medications in the treatment studies. Please call (781)-306-8630 to speak with a research coordinator about any of the studies.

http://challiance.org/ccad/neuro_research/welcome.shtml

Added 06/13/07

Children with Asperger syndrome who are between 8 and 12 years old, along with their parents or guardians, are invited to participate in a research study that will identify patterns of social participation.

What is the study about?
This study will look at patterns of participation in activities when children are not in school and evaluate the perceptions of children related to what they would like to do with their time out of school.

Why is it important?
A description of the social participation patterns of children with Asperger syndrome can inform therapists about issues that can be addressed by programs. Understanding how competent children feel in social situations and how they may value participation in social activities is important information to consider when developing programs related to improving social participation.

What will be done?
Caregivers will be asked to complete a short questionnaire about their child’s social skills. The child will be asked questions about drawings of children participating in a variety of activities such as playing, hanging out, and watching television. The children will also participate in a second part of the research study in which the child will be asked how well they perform activities and how important those activities are to them.

Who will see the information?
The child’s individual responses will be coded so that they cannot be identified in any way. Only the graduate student researchers, faculty advisor and the IRB will be able to see the individual information.

Are there any costs?
There are no costs, and you are not obligated to participate. If your child chooses to join this study, there is a small thank you gift for the child.

How do I get more information?
If you would like more information about becoming involved in this study, please contact:
Lisa Crabtree
(410) 704-4330
lcrabtree@towson.edu

Added 05/09/07

Calling all those interested in employment outcomes for individuals with autism!

Looking for students with autism who have graduated or exited high school within the past ten years to fill out a survey on their high school experience and employment history. Parents and guardians who are knowledgeable about the students high school experience are invited to participate.

Click on this link (http://www.surveymonkey.com/s.asp?u=284633401755) which will connect you to a survey that is part of a doctoral dissertation to provide information on the major components and settings in public schools that lead to employment for individuals with autism.

Contact: Judith S. Marco - Judith_Marco@ccpsnet.net

Added 05/02/07

Brain Imaging Research Study of the Social Brain in Autism

Researchers at Boston University School of Medicine are using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to study the brain bases of social behavior in males between the ages of 14 and 25 with a diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder.

Participation requires 4-5 hours for diagnostic and cognitive testing, practice in a pretend scanner, and brain imaging. Participants will be paid $70-80 and receive a printed image of their brain.

For more information, please contact Lin at 617-414-1304 or lint@bu.edu.

Added 04/30/07

Drama-based Intervention for Adolescents with Asperger’s Syndrome

What is this study about?
This is a study testing the effectiveness of a program called Spotlight. The aim of this 18 week, 7 session study is to help us understand the way a program like Spotlight can help children with autism or Asperger’s syndrome develop and promote social skills.

Benefits of Participation
• Comprehensive testing regarding your child’s mood, behaviors, and social skills at no cost throughout the study
• If not currently enrolled in the Spotlight Program, your child can be considered for future Spotlight Program sessions

Inclusion Criteria
• Primary diagnosis of Asperger’s Disorder or High Functioning Autism
• Males and females ages 10-16

If interested, or would like more information, please call 781-306-8630 or e-mail childresearch@challiance.org

Added 04/30/07

The Parent and Sibling Experience of Children with Autism

An opportunity to participate in research on the experience of having a school-aged child with Autism in the family.

This study focuses on sources of stress for parents of children with Autism and the nature of the sibling relationships between children on the spectrum and their typically developing siblings. I am looking for interested parents who have a school aged (K-6) child with ASD enrolled in an inclusive or contained classroom, who also have at least one typically developing child. Participants will be asked to complete a survey which should take about half an hour to finish.

If you are interested or have any questions, please contact Emily Galen at e.galen@hotmail.com or 617-287-6376.
This study is being conducted through University of Massachusetts, Boston.

Added 04/11/07

Seeking Adults with AS/HFA for Research Project

For a dissertation on the "relationship of personality traits and temperament traits to the occupational profile of individuals with Asperger Syndrome," I am seeking adults 18 years old or older, with AS or HFA. Subjects will:

• Take two tests (MBTI and WAI) of approximately 30 minutes each.
• Fill out two surveys: job history and demographics.

In this study, I will attempt to identify an occupational profile common to persons with AS/HFA, including the predominant characteristics that lead to poor job performance. The common occupational profile will provide a basis for the development of workplace interventions and supports that can increase the likelihood of successful job performance.

If you are interested in participating in the study, or know of individuals who would be interested, please contact:

Debra Scurlock, MA OTR/L
Director, Masters in Occupational Therapy
2855 Circle Drive Portsmouth, Ohio 45662
740-351-3272-office dscurlock@shawnee.edu

Added 04/11/07

MRI Brain Development Studies for Children & Adolescents

Researchers at the Boston University School of Medicine are using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to investigate brain structure, connections, and functions.

Who can participate? Individuals with autism or Asperger's Syndrome, ages 7-18 years, as well as typically developing children in the same age group.

What happens in the study? Participants will undergo a practice session in our pretend MRI scanner. The practice session is used to allow the participant to see what the MRI will be like and to practice lying still. We will also give several standardized and diagnostic tests to confirm diagnosis of autism and assess cognitive and language abilities.

What is the time commitment? Each practice MRI session lasts about 30 minutes and the real MRI scan takes about 30-45 minutes. The standardized testing for typically developing individuals takes about 2.5 hours. For individuals with autism or Asperger's who have not been to our lab before, the testing will be over several visits and takes about 5 hours total. Participants will compensated for their time and recieve a picture of their brain.

For more information, please call Linda Sudlesky at 617-414-1304 or email ddrp@bu.edu.

Added 02/26/07

MRI Brain Development Studies for Young Children

Researchers at the Boston University School of Medicine invite children ages 3-7 with an autism spectrum diagnosis to participate in a research study investigating brain and language development using MRI. Participation involves approximately 3-5 visits to our research lab each year for two years. Children are taught to lie still in a practice mock scanner and are administered diagnostic, cognitive, and language testing in addition to the actual brain scan. Families recieve cash compensation of $20 for each mock scanner training session and $150 for completing the testing and brain scan. Written reports of children's testing will be provided to families.

For more information, please call Linda Sudlesky at 617-414-1304 or email ddrp@bu.edu.

Added 02/26/07

The Identification of Non-Verbal Oral, Motor Speech and Phonological Impairment in Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder

Principal Investigators: Shelley Velleman, Ph.D., Mary Andrianopoulos, Ph.D.
Other Investigators: Christina Foreman, Ph.D.

Half of all children with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) do not communicate by speaking. The nature of their speech problems is not understood. There are three possible causes: muscle weakness (dysarthria), poor motor programming/planning (apraxia), or limited ability to represent words as sounds in their minds (phonology). In a survey study, Marili, Andrianopoulos, Velleman, and Foreman (2005) found that 60% of children with ASD had at least some of these factors interfering with oral communication. The purpose of this study is to determine whether children with ASD exhibit signs and symptoms consistent with a motor speech problem. The results of this study will shed insight into the nature of the communication breakdown in children with ASD and appropriate treatment approaches to enhance oral communication.

Participants Needed: We are looking for healthy children diagnosed with ASD that between the ages of 4 to 6 years and meet the following inclusion criteria: the presence of a speech and communication disorder, non-verbal IQ of 70-90 based on formal IQ testing; normal hearing and vision; no behavioral problems that inflict injury onto self or others. Potential candidates with a diagnosis of an Autism Spectrum Disorder should be based on a written report provided by a qualified physician, psychologist, speech-language pathologist, or qualified specialist.

Visits: Children who qualify for the study will be scheduled for four 1-2 hour evaluation sessions. The test activities in each session will be organized in a fun, lively way with breaks so that the child participant will not get frustrated, bored or tired. Child participants will be rewarded for their efforts and participation with parent approved items such as stickers, food, etc. During the four sessions, tests and activities will be given to assess the child’s IQ, oral structures, speech, hearing, understanding and use of language, and voice.

Compensation: In addition to praise and rewards (stickers, small toys, etc.) for the child’s efforts on the tests and activities, the child participant will receive a research stipend in compensation for his/her participation in this study. Monetary payment for the child’s participation will consist of: three (3) $20 dollar payments for the first three sessions and one (1) $40 payment for the fourth and last session. Therefore, each child’s total stipend will be $100 for their participation in all four sessions. If the child does not attend or complete a session, he/she will not be compensated for his/her participation in that session. Transportation, gas, tolls and parking costs to and from the facilities located on the UMass-Amherst Campus will not be compensated.

For more information, please contact:
Call or email your contact information (Name, Address, City, State, Zip) to:

Dr. Mary Andrianopoulos at (413) 545-0551 or mva@comdis.umass.edu or
Dr. Shelley Velleman at 545-3636 or velleman@comdis.umass.edu

Added 02/14/07

The Morgens Group will be serving as a testing site for a project of Harcourt Assessment Inc. to improve the reliability of two common intelligence tests, the WAIS IV and WMS IV, which are already widely used in evaluating people for Asperger Syndrome and other autism spectrum disorders. The goal is to allow for more accurate diagnoses. Liana Morgens, Ph.D. is excited to support a standardization project that takes the time to better understand our population as these assessments.

For this project, the Morgens Group is seeking as study subjects individuals with AS and closely related diagnoses ages 16 years old or above. Each participant would take a trial version of the WAIS IV and WMS IV, or both. The study will compensate participant with $100 for each test taken, whether the WAIS or WMS. Interested individuals can call 781-899-1160 for more information.

Added 01/31/07

John Gabrieli's cognitive neuroscience lab at MIT is looking to recruit adult participants with Asperger's Syndrome for a study on how the brain processes information about the self. We'd like for you to come in to MIT and take part in an MRI scan here on campus. We would like for you to come in on two separate occasions, and you would be paid a total of $100 for your time. Please visit the following web page for more information or to sign up for the study:

http://web.mit.edu/gabrieli-lab/Asperger's Brochure.pdf

Many thanks in advance!

Joe Moran, Ph.D.
email: jmmoran@mit.edu
http://web.mit.edu/gabrieli-lab/People/moran.htm

Added 01/29/07

Survey for Parents of Autistic Children ages 4-16

20-minute confidential online questionnaire
Focus on understanding the relationships between parent stress, attribution, and self-efficacy
May result in new parent training program to reduce stress and improve child development

Conducted by Tara Clark, M.S.
Doctoral Candidate in Counseling Psychology
University of Kentucky
Email: tara_kid79@yahoo.com

Take the survey at http://www.surveymonkey.com/s.asp?u=331382963802

Added 12/18/06

Understanding autism and employment is important for people with autism, Asperger Syndrome and other conditions on the autism spectrum, as well as for their families. Little is known about how caring for a child with an autism spectrum disorder effects parents' employment decisions. In addition, many adults with an autism spectrum disorder find it difficult to maintain employment. With an estimated 535,000 people with autism in the UK alone, this is an issue that requires attention. These are important issues that are believed to have a huge emotional, physical, and financial impact on the people with autism spectrum disorders and their families.

For this reason, Dr. Elisabeth Hill & Dr. Jo Yarker are conducting a simple questionnaire study to identify the employment-related issues that are most important to both the caregivers of children with autism as well as adults with an autism spectrum disorder. To kearn more about, or to take part in, this study please visit http://homepages.gold.ac.uk/autismandemployment/.

Added 12/13/06

Matthew J. Moyer, M.S. is a Ph.D. candidate in Counseling Psychology and is conducting a personally and professionally valuable dissertation research project focusing on emotional intelligence in children and adolescents diagnosed with Asperger's Disorder. This study, funded completely out-of-pocket, should benefit clinical work with children and adolescents for years to come. Interested parents should go to Moyer's personal website (www.moyersurvey.com) for more information and to submit their contact information.

The Psychiatric and Neurodevelopmental Genetics Unit

About the Psychiatric and Neurodevelopmental Genetics Unit (PNGU)

This research unit is located in the Richard Simches Research Center of the Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston, MA. We are affiliated with Harvard Medical School. Our research studies are carried out in partnership with clinicians at Massachusetts General Hospital, McLean Hospital and Harvard Medical School. Recently, PNGU joined the Center for Human Genetic Research (CHGR). The PNGU is directed by behavioral geneticist, Dr. David Pauls. Dr. Pauls’ research over the last 25 years has focused on psychiatric and neurodevelopmental disorders including Gilles de la Tourette syndrome (GTS), Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), autism and related disorders, specific reading disability (dyslexia) and bipolar affective disorder. PNGU research projects are supported by funds from sources such as the National Institutes of Health, the National Alliance for Autism Research (NAAR), the National Alliance for Research on Schizophrenia and Depression (NARSAD), the Wallace Foundation, The Tourette Syndrome Association, and the Dyslexia Foundation.

PNGU Mission

Our goals include to:

• Find out what role genes play in the origin of psychiatric, neurodevelopmental, and behavioral disorders, such as Tourette Syndrome, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder and Autistic Disorder
• Examine the influence of non-genetic and/or environmental factors in the appearance of these disorders
• Look at factors that may protect an individual from or may put an individual at greater risk for developing these disorders
• Develop new ways of collecting and looking at information on these disorders in order to gain a more complete understanding of them

Why is Genetics Research Important?

In addition to gaining more information about psychiatric disorders, we are interested in understanding how genes are passed on from generation to generation. We are also very interested in finding susceptibility genes. These are genes that may make an individual more likely to develop a disorder. We invite entire families, that is, both parents and children, to take part in our studies. We ask each family member for either a blood sample or a cheek swab sample. From these samples, we can look at each person’s DNA. Genes are contained in DNA and are passed down from parents to children. Researchers can use this information to find out which genes are related to certain disorders. Once located, we may begin to understand how the specific genes work, why a particular disorder occurs, and how the disorder is passed down in families. Such knowledge is very important in the development of treatment and prevention strategies.

A Thank You

We look forward to the research and discoveries ahead. We plan to build on the knowledge we have gained up to this point. We hope that our continued research will increase our understanding of these disorders.

We are especially grateful to all the research families who have taken part in our studies. Everything we have learned so far and everything we will learn in the future is made possible by their generous participation.

Current Research Areas at PNGU

• Tourette Syndrome, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
• Autism, Asperger syndrome and Related Disorders
• Developmental Dyslexia
• Bipolar Affective Disorder
• Schizophrenia
• Panic Disorder and Related Anxiety Disorders

Looking for Families to Participate in Research Project on AS

Margarete Bernath, a fourth-year Psy.D. candidate in School-Clinical Psychology at Yeshiva University in New York, is writing her dissertation on Asperger Syndrome, and is looking for families to participate in her research project. She seeks parents/caretakers of children ages 3 to 18 who would be willing to meet with her one or two times for approximately two hours per interview. Interviews will begin around May or June and may be scheduled at the family's convenience.

The goal of the research is to learn about parents' experiences in regard to diagnosis, educational placements, treatment options, and generally navigating the system in order to contribute to the existing literature on this diagnosis and to give more of a voice to the experiences of families. Margarete will ensure confidentiality of all identifying information, and is willing to meet parents at the location that is most convenient for them, within approximately a one-hour drive from Boston.

If you are interested in participating in this study, please contact Margarete Bernath at: margareteb@excite.com or (908) 752-2427.

Nancy Isenberg, a behavioral neurologist, conducting research at Princeton University to examine social function in individuals along the autism spectrum. She is looking for individuals 16 and older with high fuctioning autism or Asperger's to participate in non-invasive studies. Additional information on Isenberg and her study can be found on her laboratory's website.

What's Your Moral Sense?

The Psychology Department at Harvard University has created a new version of their highly successful Moral Sense Test. This version is specifically designed for individuals who fall within the autism spectrum. To take the test, visit moral.wjh.harvard.edu/aa2/test/test.html.

Contacts:
Fiery Cushman, Project Engineer
cushman@wjh.harvard.edu
Marc D. Hauser, Psychology Professor at Harvard University
617-495-3886 · mdhauser@wjh.harvard.edu

Research Study for Children 6-16:
Help Us Learn More About How Children Think

In a previous study, the Bradley Hospital/Brown University Medical School discovered a connection between autism-spectrum disorders and absolute ("perfect") pitch abilities, which are quite rare and possibly founded in genetics. Now they are doing a follow-up study and are looking for children, both with or without autism spectrum disorders, to participate in screening. Participants need not have absolute pitch or musical abilities.

• 1-2 hour time commitment to complete tasks of musical and other abilities
• Thank you gifts for participation

Call (401) 682-9032 for more information

Brenda Smith Myles, Ph.D. and her colleagues at the University of Kansas are undertaking two large-scale studies to better understand children and youth with Asperger Syndrome in order to plan effective interventions.

The first study will involve completion of surveys and interviews via phone by parents and children/adolescents. Brenda and her colleagues will assist in these tasks.

In the second study, children/adolescents with Asperger Syndrome will be provided with a software program that teaches emotions and will be asked to use it for 2 hours per week for 10 weeks. Parents who have children with Asperger Syndrome (ages 8 to 18) who are interested in learning more about the study are asked to contact Brenda at asdresearch@ku.edu.

Language and Social Communication
Research Program

Lab of Developmental Cognitive Neuroscience
Boston University School of Medicine
Director: Helen Tager-Flusberg, PhD

For Children ages 7-17 who have autism or Aspergers, or have a history of language delay, etc.

This study is intended to investigate:

• how children process social information from people's faces
• language abilities, including grammatical and pragmatic skills
• brain structure and function related to face and language processing

http://www.bu.edu/anatneuro/dcn/autism/
ongoing_programs/language_and_social.html