Positively Autism ~ Children's Books ~ June, 2007

Children's Books
Volume 2, Issue 6 ~ June, 2007

Positive Autism News

Cast and Writer of "Snow Cake" Share their Experiences with Autism
After portraying a woman with autism in her new film "Snow Cake," actress Sigourney Weaver has begun to share her thoughts and views about autism. "I felt so humbled, both by the people I met on the spectrum, and the people who devote themselves to bringing out their talents and successes," Weaver said of her experiences preparing for the role. The film's writer, Angela Pell, was inspired by her 9-year-old son with autism. She speaks about the images so commonly portrayed to parents: “we had all these leaflets and books showing pictures of children on their own, with tears in their eyes. All these very negative images...and although it was quite challenging with our son to start with, it's not our experience that it's been totally negative. Our son is one of the happiest people I've ever met, and he brings a lot of joy to a lot of people.” Click Here To Read the Complete Article

Three Students Graduate from High School Program for Students with Autism
Three students with autism received high-school diplomas after graduating from a program in which they attended the regular high school classes, with additional support for social skills and scheduling. All three students have plans for work and/or continuing education after graduation. Their plans include attending a community college to study engineering science, obtaining certification in computer repair, and starting a public speaking business. Click Here To Read the Complete Article

Students with Autism Enter Art Contest
The National Autistic Society in Wales recently held an art competition with the theme, "Why I Go to School." The competition was open to children with and without autism. The runner-up, an 11-year-old boy with Asperger's Syndrome, enjoyed participating in the contest. "I enjoyed doing the picture, it was quite relaxing," he said. His contest entry showed himself at school, and then later working as a mechanic, with the caption, "I go to school to help my future." Click Here To Read the Complete Article