Parents of Autistic Teenagers Seek More Help
YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio -- Overall, parents of autistic children in the Mahoning Valley are receiving good information when their children are young, a new survey suggests. But they're also interested in learning more information and more detailed information to help them care for their children as they enter their teen years.
The survey is the first to measure parental expectations of families in Trumbull, Mahoning and Columbiana counties -- families who make up the more than 60,000 individuals in Ohio affected by autism, said Aundrea Cika, director of the newly established Mahoning Valley Office of the Autism Society of Ohio, headquartered in Columbus. “It is crucial for us to get an accurate view of what support services Mahoning Valley parents are seeking in order for us to create the most beneficial programs to serve our families,” she noted.
Highlights of the survey:
- 67% of parents want support groups for specific populations, such as Parents of Asperger’s syndrome or Teens with Autism, while a similar group is requesting a Parent to Parent Peer Network.
- 60% want to see more programs on helping their teens develop social skills and a similar strong response requested such programs for their young adults from 18 to 25.
- 65% are looking for educational seminars. Among the topics of interest are simplifying the public support system, dealing with autistic behaviors, helping their offspring plan and make the transition to adulthood.
- 78% want family recreational activities throughout the year.
- 59% want a week-long summer camp
51% want such outings geared specifically to the young adult population.
“This survey helps demonstrate the need for us to offer more in-depth programming than has traditionally been available as well as encouraging us to initiate a program of outings and entertainment activities that families can plan on and look forward to enjoying together," Cika commented.
The Autism Society of Ohio describes itself as dedicated to improving the lives of all affected by autism in the Buckeye State through information and referral, family support, advocacy, professional development, raising awareness and resource development.
Published by The Business Journal, Youngstown, Ohio.
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