Episode 6: Autism & Aging Out with Melissa Collins-Porter

On today’s episode I am chatting with my dear friend, Melissa Collins-Porter, we discuss a timeline leading up to her son's autism diagnosis, her goals for his transition into adulthood, the impact autism has on siblings and a family as a whole. Plus, I am excited to chat about her upcoming documentary film: Aging Out

It’s a film about what happens when autistic kids grow up.  Premiering November 22, 2019. Check website for info and movie trailer  https://www.agingoutmovie.com/  

Follow on  facebook https://www.facebook.com/agingoutmovie/

We also chat about the Lanterman Act. The film will also cover the history of the Lanterman Act, which is a law unique to California that has provided services to adults with developmental disabilities since 1969 - a time when no one could have predicted the current explosion in autism diagnoses. For more information: https://www.dds.ca.gov/ConsumerCorner/LantermanActGuide.cfm

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Today Amy and I are chatting about iCanBike! A wonderful program that has been teaching people with disabilities to ride a conventional two-wheel bicycle since 2007! The San Diego location we mention has open spots, sign up via the website prior to Saturday, May 11, 2019. The classes start May 13-17, 2019. Scholarships are available.  Ages 8 and up

https://icanshine.org/ provides quality learning opportunities in recreational activities for individuals with disabilities. Look for a location in your area.

Volunteers are also needed! Come out and see the smiles! Please share this amazing opportunity with anyone who may be interested. https://icanshine.org/san-diego-ca/

Thank you Amy!

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Today I go through a timeline of our school experiences. Pre K - Transition to adulthood and what that looks like for us and our daughter.

I also mentioned I am hosting an Autism and Aging Mastermind May 21 @ 630pm in Carlsbad, CA. Please email me for details. This is an event that is open to parents and caregivers and is not affiliated with an organization. An informal roundtable chatting about our children and the future. I hope to do many more in the future. 

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Today we chat about our experiences with accommodations at theme parks, theaters, surf lessons, zoo and more in and around San Diego! These disability passes/ sensory friendly places have changed our lives and have let us have joyful experiences with our daughter.

Mentions in this episode:

https://surfinfire.com/ Surf Lessons - ask for Jon Peterson. Inquire about special needs surf lessons.

Disneyland and California Adventure

[email protected] or (407) 560-2547

Knott’s Berry Farm - by far the best. Check out the site… Knott’s Berry Farm is fun for everyone!

https://www.knotts.com/help/accessibility

Sensory Friendly Movies by location:

https://www.amctheatres.com/programs/sensory-friendly-films Legoland:

https://california-support.legoland.com/hc/en-us/sections/360000073131-Disabled-Guests

San Diego Zoo and Safari Park:

https://zoo.sandiegozoo.org/visit/guests-with-disabilities

Balboa Park - The Natural History Museum:

https://www.sdnhm.org/visit/accessibility/asd-mornings/

Seaworld:

https://seaworld.com/san-diego/park-info/accessibility-guide/

National Parks Free lifetime lifetime pass:

https://store.usgs.gov/access-pass

Also not mentioned but an amazing place:

Petco Park home of the San Diego Padres first ever West Coast Sensory Inclusive stadium:

They offer sensory kits! Email park in advance for location

https://www.mlb.com/padres/ballpark/disability-access-guide

Old Globe seasonal sensory performances:

https://www.theoldglobe.org/arts-engagement/discovery-programs/sensory-friendly-initiatives/

Universal Studios Hollywood:

https://www.universalstudioshollywood.com/faqs/how-do-you-accommodate-guests-with-disabilities/

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Today Chad and I chat about Paige’s behavioral therapy timeline. What has helped and not so much. I have a couple interesting therapist stories, some good and some...well not so great. Please share this podcast and we would love for you to write a review.

Links from the episode:

Good Karma Apps

https://www.goodkarmaapplications.com/

ASD Reading

https://www.asdreading.com/

Mel Science

https://melscience.com/US-en/

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Welcome Vanessa Surprise! Vanessa is a Mom to three amazing kids, two daughters and a son. She fights daily for her son, who is on the autism spectrum. She not only works full time, she is a dedicated volunteer for our local chapter of TACA - The Autism Community in Action.

Thank you so much Vanessa!!

For more information on the coffee talks and the meeting we mention in the episode :

https://tacanow.org/

Vanessa is co-coordinator along with Nancy in San Diego, CA. Tap "chapters and events" to find your local chapter or "family resources" to find a mentor in your area.

The Facebook group can be found here:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/TACAhope/

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Welcome to our first episode! In this episode, we are sharing our daughters autism diagnosis story. We detail the ups and downs and things we know now that we wish we would have known years ago. Find us on social media or email us with questions or If you would love to be a future guest on the podcast.

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