Positively Autism ~ Home-Based ABA Programs ~ January/February, 2009

Home-Based ABA Programs
Volume 4, Issue 1 ~ January/February, 2009

Positive Autism News

Child with Autism Makes Acting Debut in Hollywood Movie
Braeden Reed, six-year-old with Autism, will make his acting debut in the movie adaptation of the Nicholas Sparks novel, "Dear John." Braeden will play the role of a child with Autism in the film. The group of children who auditioned for the part included children with and without Autism. After three callbacks, Braeden was given the part due to his acting ability and charm. The film's Oscar-nominated director, Lasse Hallstrom describes her work with Braeden as "completely wonderful."
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Art Exhibit Features Work of Student with Autism
Christian Parrotta is an artist with Autism. He was recently given the honor of having his ceramics, paintings, and drawings displayed at this high school's media center. During the show, Christian's art is for sale, and some of the pieces have sold for around $1,000. The proceeds from the show are being donated to an Autism charitable organization. One of his art teachers, William Booth, describes the show as a celebration of "Christian’s unique developing style" and his "extraordinary sense of color."
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High School Students with Autism are Valued Members of School Swim Team
In an example of inclusion, three high school students with Autism participate in their school's swim team. Their coach reports that each of the students has made progress as a swimmer during their time on the team. In fact, in a recent meet, the students scored 11 points for their team, helping lead them to a victory by won by 10 points. Of the students, coach Bill Geppert says, "It's a rarity when they are not at practice and they are a dream to coach. I think this is a unique story that sends a message to kids that they can do these types of things."
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Basketball Player with Autism Stars in New Gatorade Ad
Jason McElwain, the high school basketball player who became a YouTube sensation when he scored 20 points in four minutes, including six three-pointers, for his school's team, is now one of the stars of a new television advertisement for Gatorade. An article and a video of the ad can be viewed here: http://www.brandweek.com/bw/content_display/current-issue/e3ic96aa80f511fb30ff2a376a2e0aa905f?imw=Y.