Metro Parent / April 2010 / Asperger's Sydrome Support for Parents

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Asperger's Sydrome Support for Parents

If you have a child with this "high functioning autism," here are resources and tools to help – both online and in southeast Michigan

If you have a child with Asperger's syndrome disorder – or think you might – you may have learned that pinpointing the issue isn't always an easy thing. ASD, as it's called for short, is relatively new to the medical world and can take years to correctly diagnose. Finding answers can be even trickier for girls, since the signs and symptoms are harder to identify in females.

But for parents of ASD children, there is information and help out there to ease the stress and worry. Here's a list of support groups and websites to explore and find some answers.

Support in southeast Michigan

Asperger Support Group. For parents of children with Asperger Syndrome. Held at the Turner Senior Resource Center in Plymouth. The group, ran by Mary Rumman, meets the fourth Wednesday of each month. For details, contact Mary: mrumman@umich.edu.

Asperger's Social Skills Group. This 10-week-long program, based in Wayne, Mich., helps children understand the rules of social communication. Licensed therapists teach.

Autism Society of America. As part of its mission, the nation's leading grassroots autism organization is focused on providing the latest info on treatment, education, research and advocacy. Check out these local chapters:

• Macomb, St Clair Counties. Hosts various support meetings and outings, including runs, camp weekends and other fundraisers.
• Oakland County. Offers many family events and support groups, including a Friendship Club Social for ages 13 years-plus.
• Wayne County. Meets in Dearborn; provides information from speakers and an outlet for parents to speak.

Asperger Society of Michigan. The clickable map of the state lets you choose a region and find a plethora of support groups, service providers and more.

Jack's Place for Autism. This Southfield organization provides families supportive, educational and referral services. Founded by former Detroit Tiger Jimmie Price and wife Lisa after their son was diagnosed.

Southeast Michigan Asperger Support Group. A local social gathering and support group for families dealing specifically with Asperger's, founded by Lisa Herring.

Online support and information

AspergerSyndrome.org. OASIS (Online Asperger Syndrome Information and Support) has joined forces with MAAP Services to host loads of information for families, individuals and medical professionals in a single spot.

Asperger's Syndrome Foundation. Browse this United Kingdom site, where much of the leading research on Asperger's and girls is happening.

AutismSpeaks.org. This advocacy and information site for those affected by ASDs offers details on walk events, outreach, grants, tools and a trove of additional support and information for parents.

Autism Society. Explore the latest news on autism and ASD research, plug into the autism community and much more at the home of the highly recognizable Autism Awareness Puzzle Ribbon.

Hoagies' Gifted Education Page. A comprehensive list of books showcasing information and tools for parents and those affected by ASDs.

National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. NINDS' information page is filled with ASD information and organizations, including email and phone contact details.

Yale School of Medicine. Provides information on the assessment and diagnosis of ASD from doctors.