April 2019

APRIL IS NATIONAL AUTISM AWARENESS MONTH
Nearly a quarter century ago, the Autism Society launched a nationwide effort to promote Autism Awareness and Inclusion to assure that each person with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is provided the opportunity to achieve the highest possible quality of life.

DID YOU KNOW?

DID YOU KNOW?

  • Autism is a lifelong, developmental condition that affects the way a person communicates, interacts and processes information. ASD is defined by a certain set of behaviors and is a "spectrum condition" that affects individuals differently and to varying degrees.
  • Early signs of ASD include:
    • Lack of or delay in spoken language
    • Little or no eye contact
    • Lack of interest in peer relationships
    • Lack of spontaneous or make-believe play
    • Repetitive use of language and/or motor mannerisms (e.g., twirling objects)
    • Persistent fixation on parts of objects
  • There is no known single cause of Autism but it is treatable. Individuals with Autism do not outgrow it, but studies show that early diagnosis and intervention can lead to significantly improved outcomes.
  • A child’s Autism diagnosis affects every member of the family. Caregivers must put their primary focus on helping a child with ASD, which may place stress on their marriage, other children, work, finances, etc.
  • The Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act (IDEA) plays a key role in transitioning children with Autism to adulthood. While entitlement to public education ends at age 21, IDEA requires that transition planning begin at age 16 and become a formal part of the student’s Individualized Education Plan (IEP).
TAKE ACTION

TAKE ACTION

  • Learn tips and information about helping an autistic child transition to adulthood.
  • The Autism Source™ Resource Database is a nationwide network of affiliates that works with other organizations and professionals throughout the U.S. Click here to search for nation-wide autism-related services and support.
  • Sensory Friendly Films, offered by AMC Theatres and the Autism Society, gives families affected by Autism a place to enjoy their favorite movies in an accepting environment.
  • Use the Employee Assistance Program for unlimited, free, telephonic counseling sessions as well as five, no cost, face to face sessions for help in managing stress.
  • Sesame Street in Communities provides resources that can help siblings understand and help with their brother’s or sister’s Autism.
  • LifeCare Concierge Service can help you take care of some of life’s tasks, giving you more time to focus on an autistic child as well as other family members and yourself.

UPCOMING LIFECARE® WEBINARS:

Parenting a Child with Special Needs: Autism Overview
TUESDAY, APRIL 9 —
1:00-2:00 EST

Stress Reduction Techniques
TUESDAY, APRIL 23 —
1:00-2:00 EST

Login to LifeCare® and search for Webinars.

UPCOMING EMPLOYEE ASSISTANCE PROGRAM (ONE-HOUR) WEBINARS:

To register and for a complete list of webinars, click here. Can’t make it? On-demand replay will be available starting 2 hours after the live presentation. All webinars are one hour.

Hazelnut

FOOD OF THE MONTH: HAZELNUT

Hazelnuts, also known as filberts, are exceedingly high in “good cholesterol” or unsaturated fat. They are also high in magnesium, calcium and vitamins B and E. Sweet and crunchy hazelnuts team up with bright lemon and fresh parsley to add oomph to the tilapia for an easy seafood recipe.

Always Learning

If you have an inquiry, please open a ticket by visiting myCloud > myHR > Ask HR a Question. Pearson People Services will review the ticket and respond or, if necessary, escalate your inquiry to the appropriate Human Resources representative.

Sources: aboutibs.org, American Gastroenterological Association, eatingwell.com, International Foundation for Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders, Cleveland Clinic, Mayo Clinic