Transition to Adulthood
All children and teens with Asperger profiles will become adults with Asperger profiles. For many parents, this transition to adulthood is filled with anxiety and uncertainty about the future. AANE can provide parents with the information and resources to help make this transition easier. We can help parents discern which skills and experiences their child may need to help prepare for life after secondary education. And, because we serve the whole lifespan at AANE, our support and resources continue to be available to young adults with Asperger/Autism and their families.
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Employment and Asperger Syndrome
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Inadequate vocational services
Graduating from high school and transitioning to the world of work is an extremely important and exciting milestone. However, for many young adults with autism obtaining and maintaining employment can present some unique challenges. Unfortunately, despite the... more
The Interdependence Mindset
02/07/2023
Lee el mensaje de Brenda en Español
Independence and Interdependence can co-exist.
This month we are discussing autism and interdependence. Although our society pushes the idea of independence, very few people (no matter their neurology) are completely independent. We all need help at times for a variety of reasons. Maybe a person asks for help... more
As a parent of three autistic adults, my understanding of each of my children has grown as I try to help them develop personal independence that is right for them and a willingness to accept help when needed. They have given me permission to share what this process looks like in our family.
My... more
Listening to Autistic Voices
10/04/2022
Many parents and family members of newly diagnosed autistic individuals find themselves overwhelmed in a sea of information. A neuropsychologist might hand over a packet bulging with materials, or Googling “autism” will turn up thousands of sites. Finding accurate, helpful information isn’t... more
Autism Disclosure and College
07/07/2022
In my work helping autistic students apply to college, the question of disclosure comes up frequently. I think it’s important for people to become comfortable with their authentic selves, and I usually disclose my own autism to families early on to set an example.
Disclosing on college... more
Finding the Right Dorm
11/02/2021
I lay down in my bed on a warm Saturday night, groaning as I heard the cheers from outside begin. I was in a single in a dorm on the far edge of campus. I had purposely chosen this dorm above some others as I had heard it wasn’t a “party dorm,” however, I soon learned this wasn’t the case.... more
Preparing for Life’s Transitions
11/02/2021
Throughout the lifespan, we are all faced with many different kinds of transitions in all areas of our lives. Whether it is moving through different educational stages, beginning or changing employment, entering into friendships or romantic relationships, or moving into independent or supported... more
Parenting Anxiety
08/05/2021
Lee el mensaje de Dania en Español
Running a non-profit can be stressful at times, so I have learned over the years to take care of myself in several ways. I enjoy hiking and quilting, but my hidden pleasure is binging streamed shows. I actually found two shows in the past couple of weeks I... more
Joe, who is now 30 years old, started receiving special education services in preschool, was largely mainstreamed in K-12, and graduated high school in 2009. He attended a community college and obtained an Associates Degree in Engineering, and is currently working towards completing a BS in... more
Understanding the Employment Journey
03/04/2021
When a parent finds out their child is on the autism spectrum, whether that child is 4 or 34, the parent embarks on a new journey to understand how autism might affect their child’s future. Just as no two individuals on the spectrum are the same, no two parent journeys are the same either.... more
Climbing Out From Under the To-Do List
12/03/2020
Lee el mensaje de Dania en Español
Many individuals on the spectrum are plagued with a recurring thought:
“Why can't I get anything done?”
No matter the age, people with Asperger/autism profiles often feel overwhelmed when they think of the number of things they need to do,... more
Many young adults on the autism spectrum become isolated after completing their education as they move into adulthood, which can be disconcerting to all involved. Dania Jekel, AANE's Executive Director, takes a look at the causes of isolation and strategies to help. Visit aane.org to learn more about AANE's programs and... more
Dorms, parties, cute girls, hot guys, roommates, new friends—let’s face it, college life is, in large part, about the social scene.
Finally, you’ll be able to come and go as you please. Your parents won’t be there reminding you to study, brush your teeth, eat your vegetables, etc. And you won’t have a curfew. Moreover, college is... more
Adolescence is an important time of growth in any young person’s life. It’s a vulnerable time, during which self-esteem can be exceedingly fragile. For teens with AS, HFA or PDD, the quality of support and education they receive during this formative period can make or break future success as... more