Help for children, teens, and adults with Autism Spectrum disorders

Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are being diagnosed more frequently these days. Unfortunately, the state agencies that serve Massachusetts residents have not yet caught up to match the service needs.  Children with autism may be able to get some help through the Department of Developmental Services, but adults are sorely underserved.

Families I've worked with have found the Asperger's Association of New England helpful. They offer a variety of means of support, from social events, to online support groups, to help advocating through the school system, to skill building groups. From their website www.aane.org:

AANE (the Asperger’s Association of New England) serves families of children with Asperger Syndrome (AS), High-Functioning Autism (HFA), Pervasive Developmental Disorder Not Otherwise Specified (PDD-NOS), or Nonverbal Learning Disorder (NLD or NVLD). We also serve the teachers and other professionals who work with this population.

AANE Information Line: Jean Stern AANE’s Director of Children’s Services and Brenda Dater AANE”s Coordinator of Children’s Services are there to answer your calls and e-mails. Parents may call them at any time, and as often as necessary, for information, support, or referrals to help in raising a child with Asperger Syndrome. Main Telephone Number: (617) 393-3824

Also, if the club is interested in hearing from AANE, I'd be happy to see if we could get someone to our meeting. Their office is in Watertown, so I think it might be feasible.