Self-Advocacy: Imperative Skill for Individuals with Autism

The definition of an advocate is “a person who supports an idea or a plan.”  If you are a parent of a child with an Autism Spetrum Disorder, your role as an advocate for your child is one of the most important you will have in making sure your child with ASD receives the services necessary to meet the challenges that he or she will face.   As children grow older, it is imperative for them to develop self-advocacy skills to foster independence.   If you click on the link below, you’ll read about Henry Frost, a teen with Autism and other physical disabilities.  Henry attends a specialized school in Florida.  However, he believes he has the right to go to his neighborhood school.  He protested outside a Tampa building during the Republican National Convention and posted his picture on Facebook.  He is now pursuing legal actions against his district.  You can read the entire story and find out about Henry’s advocacy efforts below.    

http://stateimpact.npr.org/florida/2012/10/10/social-media-helps-student-with-autism-find-his-voice/