FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:  February 28, 2024  Make-A-Wish® Canada has partnered with Autism Canada to provide specialized training to Make-A-Wish staff so that they can effectively communicate with wish children who are non-speaking due to their critical illness. Last year, approximately 4% of children who were granted a wish were non-speaking. Autism Canada was selected due to their vast experience in this area. “It is vital to our mission that each child’s wish comes from them directly and this has been a challenge with non-speaking kids. This training is a game-changer, allowing us t ..read more

Sharing the Spectrum is a newsletter written by our Autism Ambassadors, all of whom are on the Autism Spectrum. | Sharing the Spectrum est un bulletin écrit par nos ambassadeurs d’Autisme Canada, qui sont tous sur le spectre autistique. An interview on transitions With Autism Canada Ambassador Cheryl Lien Une interview sur les transitions Outside the Box: Advocating for Oneself By | Par c.e. chapple À l’extérieure de la boîte : Défendre ses propres intérêts “I have done a great deal of volunteering during my adult life and although it is rewarding it is sometimes problematic. You see ..read more

The goal of this study is to establish a consensus between both autistic adults and expert clinicians around ideal assessment practices for diagnosing autistic adults. Through this effort, we hope to contribute to the development of more collaborative, effective, and inclusive diagnostic practices for autistic adults. Researchers:  Dr. Connor Kerns; Charlotte Stewardson Who can participate: We are seeking input from autistic individuals who have received an autism diagnosis in adulthood (18+) within the last 5 years. To learn more about the study and/or to complete a brief eligibility scr ..read more

We know that it is very difficult for both parents and autistic individuals to seek out a diagnosis in Canada. For this reason, we are conducting a study to try to better understand common obstacles that people face and to understand the pathway that is followed while trying to obtain an autism diagnosis in Canada. Researchers:  Dr. Nichole Scheerer, Dr. Janet McLaughlin, Dr. Margaret Schneider, Dr. Grace Iarrocci, Amelia Kovacs Who can participate: People 18+ years of age who have been diagnosed with autism as an adult or have a child/children that have been diagnosed with autism in Cana ..read more

Sharing the Spectrum is a newsletter written by our Autism Ambassadors, all of whom are on the Autism Spectrum. | Sharing the Spectrum est un bulletin écrit par nos ambassadeurs d’Autisme Canada, qui sont tous sur le spectre autistique. How do I manage transitions as an autistic adult? By | Par Javier Herrera Comment gérer les transitions en tant qu'adulte autiste ? “As an autistic adult, I certainly have challenges when facing transitions. In fairness, it was my diagnosis that allows me to identify this situation and like with quite a few others, understand the challenges that it can ..read more

Autistic individuals aged 18 and older are needed to take part in an online study assessing their overall school experience and social well-being in elementary school. Both individuals who have been diagnosed with autism and those who self-identify are welcome to participate. Participants will be asked to complete some brief online questionnaires relating to school experience and social well-being while thinking about their years in elementary school; participants also will be asked to consider whether a particular event from that time continues to impact them as adults. Researchers:  Kri ..read more

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:  January 12, 2024  Autism Canada is excited to announce a significant and defining feature that distinguishes us as a national organization. We are proud to be led by individuals who are on the Autism Spectrum. This exceptional leadership structure showcases our unwavering dedication to inclusivity, genuine representation, and comprehension of the Autistic community. “Being led by Autistic individuals is not just a point of pride for Autism Canada but a fundamental aspect of our identity. It ensures that our advocacy and support efforts are grounded in the real ..read more

Caregivers of high school students with autism or intellectual disabilities in Canada are wanted for a study on the transition to adulthood. Share your experiences to help us understand the impact of transition planning on your family’s quality of life. Your insights may contribute to the development of essential transition planning programs in Canada, creating a more supportive environment for these youth. Your participation is key in making a positive difference.  Researchers:  Lindsey McCullough (Ph.D. student); Samantha Yerxa (honours student); Dr. Barbara D’Entremont (supervisor ..read more

Sharing the Spectrum is a newsletter written by our Autism Ambassadors, all of whom are on the Autism Spectrum. | Sharing the Spectrum est un bulletin écrit par nos ambassadeurs d’Autisme Canada, qui sont tous sur le spectre autistique. My Presentation at the United Nations Building in New York By | Par Yvonne Spicer Ma présentation à l'édifice des Nations Unies à New York I was asked to attend the United Nations event in New York, where we would be sharing the importance of research and having people with lived experience involved. To say I was excited was an understatement! To ..read more

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:  December 15, 2023  Autism Canada and the Museum of Vancouver (MOV) are excited to announce a dynamic partnership aimed at promoting sensory neuroinclusive experiences. This collaboration marks a significant advancement in making cultural experiences accessible and enjoyable for all. MOV CEO Mauro Vescera shared his enthusiasm about the partnership: “We’re proud to include Autism Canada in our community of partners who are making our spaces more accessible. We learned a lot from our first Cultural Spaces Training session with Autism Advocate Bruce Petheric ..read more