As parents, we worry. There are a million+ things we worry about on a regular basis. And having a child with autism, all of our worries are still there, but they can be different – like is my child going to have friendships? Will they be able go to public school? Will they be able to maintain a job eventually? The list goes on and on.

The question about maintaining a job comes up often. And what I say to that – as with anything – is that yes, it’s absolutely possible. In fact, there are classes and programs in place that are designed to help provide the skills those with autism need to work out in “the real world.” I actually just read about a program at Seaholm High School in Birmingham, MI where students are running a business called “Puppy Love” – they make biscuits and natural treats for dogs. The students do everything from following recipes to packaging and record-keeping. There are also lessons in money-management and accounting – and the teachers work with the students on their motor skills and task completion. It’s a fantastic way to build skills while students benefit from the satisfaction of their accomplishments.

And that’s just one example of such a program – there are many more out there. And there are also other resources. One of them is Jobs4Autism.com, which, as noted on their website, is devoted to job success and job failure stories for individuals with autism, their family members, job coaches and caregivers. It’s a place to share job ideas and help find long-term employment opportunities for those with autism. You should check it out.

Other resources you’d like to share with KTH visitors?  Include them below in our Comments section.

What does autism mean to us today? It means job potential. What about you?

Best,
Jenifer