```json
{
"title": "Autism: New Grants Support Profound Autism Research!",
"body": "🧩 EXCITING NEWS FOR PROFOUND AUTISM RESEARCH!

The Depression Center has announced new pilot grants and pre-doctoral fellowships specifically to address the unique needs of individuals with profound autism. This is a HUGE step forward!

🌟 Why is this important? Profound autism often involves more significant challenges and requires specialized support. Research in this area is crucial to developing effective interventions and improving quality of life.

📌 What can you do? Spread the word about these funding opportunities! Encourage researchers and students to apply. Together, we can drive progress in understanding and supporting individuals with profound autism.

💡 Learn more about the grants and fellowships:
🔗 https://depressioncenter.org/r....esearch-services/fun

💙 Let's champion research that makes a real difference!

💬 What are your hopes for the future of profound autism research?"
}
```

🎉 NEW COMMUNITY EVENT!

📌 Navigating Sensory Sensitivities: A Practical Workshop for Parents

📅 Date: 2026-04-15
🕐 Time: 190 - 200
📍 Location: Online

Join us for an interactive workshop designed to help parents understand and support their autistic children's sensory sensitivities.

This workshop is perfect for parents, caregivers, and family members of autistic children of all ages who experience sensory sensitivities. Whether your child is overwhelmed by loud noises, bothered by certain textures, or seeks out specific sensory input, this workshop will provide you with valuable insights and practical strategies.

During this workshop, you will:
- Learn about the different types of sensory sensitivities and how they can impact autistic individuals.
- Identify your child's specific sensory triggers and preferences.
- Discover practical strategies for creating a sensory-friendly environment at home and in the community.
- Explore calming techniques and sensory activities that can help your child manage sensory overload.
- Connect with other parents and share experiences and support.

Format: This is an interactive workshop with a mix of presentations, group discussions, and hands-on activities. You'll have the opportunity to ask questions and share your own experiences.

Special Note: This workshop is designed to be family-friendly. While it is geared towards parents, older autistic children and teens who are interested in learning more about their own sensory experiences are welcome to attend with a parent or guardian. We will provide a sensory-friendly environment with options for movement and breaks.

💙 We'd love to see you there!

📚 SUPPORTING MENTAL WELL-BEING IN AUTISM: SCHOOL-BASED INTERVENTIONS

Many children with autism also experience challenges with mental health, such as anxiety and emotional dysregulation. Recent research highlights the importance of integrating mental health support directly into school settings to provide comprehensive care.

🔬 WHAT THE RESEARCH SAYS

New studies (2025-2026) emphasize the need for accessible and effective mental health interventions for children with autism within the school environment. Key trials are underway to evaluate different approaches:

➡️ **CBT for Emotional Dysregulation* A large 4-year randomized controlled trial is comparing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to usual clinical care for children aged 6-14 with autism and emotional dysregulation (e.g., irritability, anxiety). This study is training clinicians to deliver expert-guided CBT. [1][4]
🔗 https://clinicaltrials.ucbraid.org/autism
🔗 https://ucla.clinicaltrials.re....searcherprofiles.org

➡️ **Remaking Recess* This school-based social/peer engagement intervention for ages 5-12 is being paired with family navigation and self-advocacy programs to provide comprehensive support. [1]
🔗 https://clinicaltrials.ucbraid.org/autism

➡️ **TEAMS* The TEAMS initiative (with TLI/TIPS) is being combined with AIM HI (mental health) or CPRT (schools) to improve the use of evidence-based interventions by providers. [4]
🔗 https://ucla.clinicaltrials.re....searcherprofiles.org

💡 KEY TAKEAWAYS

✅ School-based interventions can improve access to mental health support for children with autism.
✅ CBT is a promising therapy for managing emotional dysregulation in this population.
✅ Integrating social skills training with mental health support creates a more holistic approach.

🛠️ PRACTICAL TIPS

🌟 **Advocate for mental health services in your child's school* Talk to school administrators and special education staff about the need for mental health support.
🌟 **Explore CBT options* If your child struggles with anxiety or emotional dysregulation, ask their doctor or therapist about CBT.
🌟 **Connect with support groups* Join local or online support groups for parents of children with autism to share experiences and learn about resources.

📖 READ MORE

For more information on autism and mental health, consult with your healthcare provider and explore resources from reputable organizations such as the Autism Society. Stay informed about ongoing research and emerging interventions to advocate for the best possible care for your child.

💬 What mental health resources would be most helpful in your child's school?

📚 SUPPORTING MENTAL WELL-BEING IN AUTISM: SCHOOL-BASED INTERVENTIONS

Many children with autism also experience challenges with mental health, such as anxiety and emotional dysregulation. Recent research highlights the importance of integrating mental health support directly into school settings to provide comprehensive care.

🔬 WHAT THE RESEARCH SAYS

New studies (2025-2026) emphasize the need for accessible and effective mental health interventions for children with autism within the school environment. Key trials are underway to evaluate different approaches:

➡️ **CBT for Emotional Dysregulation* A large 4-year randomized controlled trial is comparing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to usual clinical care for children aged 6-14 with autism and emotional dysregulation (e.g., irritability, anxiety). This study is training clinicians to deliver expert-guided CBT. [1][4]
🔗 https://clinicaltrials.ucbraid.org/autism
🔗 https://ucla.clinicaltrials.re....searcherprofiles.org

➡️ **Remaking Recess* This school-based social/peer engagement intervention for ages 5-12 is being paired with family navigation and self-advocacy programs to provide comprehensive support. [1]
🔗 https://clinicaltrials.ucbraid.org/autism

➡️ **TEAMS* The TEAMS initiative (with TLI/TIPS) is being combined with AIM HI (mental health) or CPRT (schools) to improve the use of evidence-based interventions by providers. [4]
🔗 https://ucla.clinicaltrials.re....searcherprofiles.org

💡 KEY TAKEAWAYS

✅ School-based interventions can improve access to mental health support for children with autism.
✅ CBT is a promising therapy for managing emotional dysregulation in this population.
✅ Integrating social skills training with mental health support creates a more holistic approach.

🛠️ PRACTICAL TIPS

🌟 **Advocate for mental health services in your child's school* Talk to school administrators and special education staff about the need for mental health support.
🌟 **Explore CBT options* If your child struggles with anxiety or emotional dysregulation, ask their doctor or therapist about CBT.
🌟 **Connect with support groups* Join local or online support groups for parents of children with autism to share experiences and learn about resources.

📖 READ MORE

For more information on autism and mental health, consult with your healthcare provider and explore resources from reputable organizations such as the Autism Society. Stay informed about ongoing research and emerging interventions to advocate for the best possible care for your child.

💬 What mental health resources would be most helpful in your child's school?

```json
{
"title": "Autism: New Grants Focus on Profound Autism Research!",
"body": "🧩 EXCITING NEWS: Funding boost for profound autism research!

New grants are prioritizing research into profound autism, which affects individuals with limited verbal ability and high support needs. This is a HUGE step towards better understanding and care!

🌟 What's happening? The Profound Autism Pilot Grants and Pre-doctoral Fellowships are funding research to address the unique challenges this population faces. Georgia State University experts are also leading a landmark study to identify the causes and develop targeted therapies.

✅ Why is this important? Individuals with profound autism often have been underrepresented in research. This new focus promises to bring much-needed insights and support.

💡 Action Tip: Stay informed about these studies and share them with families who may benefit. Early detection and specialized interventions can make a real difference.

🔗 https://depressioncenter.org/r....esearch-services/fun
🔗 https://news.gsu.edu/2026/02/2....5/georgia-state-expe

💬 What are your hopes for the future of profound autism research and support?"
}
```

```json
{
"title": "Autism: New Grants Focus on Profound Autism Research!",
"body": "🧩 EXCITING NEWS: Funding boost for profound autism research!

New grants are prioritizing research into profound autism, which affects individuals with limited verbal ability and high support needs. This is a HUGE step towards better understanding and care!

🌟 What's happening? The Profound Autism Pilot Grants and Pre-doctoral Fellowships are funding research to address the unique challenges this population faces. Georgia State University experts are also leading a landmark study to identify the causes and develop targeted therapies.

✅ Why is this important? Individuals with profound autism often have been underrepresented in research. This new focus promises to bring much-needed insights and support.

💡 Action Tip: Stay informed about these studies and share them with families who may benefit. Early detection and specialized interventions can make a real difference.

🔗 https://depressioncenter.org/r....esearch-services/fun
🔗 https://news.gsu.edu/2026/02/2....5/georgia-state-expe

💬 What are your hopes for the future of profound autism research and support?"
}
```

🎉 NEW COMMUNITY EVENT!

📌 Navigating Neurodiversity: A Parent's Guide to Understanding and Supporting Your Autistic Child

📅 Date: 2026-04-18
🕐 Time: 190 - 210
📍 Location: Online

Join us for an informative and supportive online workshop designed for parents and caregivers of autistic children. This workshop will provide a comprehensive overview of autism, focusing on practical strategies and insights to help you better understand and support your child's unique needs.

**What We'll Cover*
- Understanding the Autism Spectrum: Exploring the diverse presentations of autism and debunking common misconceptions.
- Communication Strategies: Learning effective techniques for communicating with your child, including visual supports and alternative communication methods.
- Sensory Sensitivities: Identifying and managing sensory triggers to create a more comfortable and supportive environment.
- Behavior Supports: Understanding the reasons behind challenging behaviors and implementing positive behavior support strategies.
- Self-Care for Caregivers: Recognizing the importance of self-care and developing strategies to manage stress and maintain well-being.

**Who Should Attend*
This workshop is ideal for parents, grandparents, caregivers, and other family members who want to deepen their understanding of autism and learn practical strategies for supporting their autistic child.

**What You'll Gain*
- Increased knowledge and understanding of autism.
- Practical strategies for communication, sensory support, and behavior management.
- A supportive community of fellow parents and caregivers.
- Resources and tools to help you navigate the journey of raising an autistic child.

**Format*
This is a live, interactive online workshop with a presentation, Q&A session, and opportunities for discussion and sharing experiences.

**Special Notes*
This workshop is free to attend and is designed to be family-friendly. We encourage you to create a comfortable and supportive environment for yourself during the session.

💙 We'd love to see you there!

🗣️ LANGUAGE DEVELOPMENT IN AUTISM: A COMBINED APPROACH

For parents of children with autism, supporting language development is often a top priority. Current research is exploring how different therapeutic approaches can be combined to create more effective and personalized interventions. Let's look at some promising developments.

🔬 WHAT THE RESEARCH SAYS

Researchers are currently studying the benefits of combining play-based and speech-based therapies. One study is comparing JASPER (Joint Attention, Symbolic Play, Engagement, and Regulation), a play-based intervention, with JASPER plus PROMPT (Prompts for Restructuring Oral Muscular Phonetic Targets), which adds a speech-focused element. This research aims to better understand the diverse language needs within autism and to develop more tailored interventions.

Another significant study, the PRISM project, is investigating a 20-week adaptive intervention for minimally verbal preschoolers. This intervention combines Discrete Trial Training (DTT), JASPER, and Contingency-Based Education (CET). The goal is to discover how these methods can be sequenced and personalized to achieve the best language outcomes for children with limited expressive language skills.

💡 KEY TAKEAWAYS

✅ Combining different therapeutic approaches may lead to more effective language interventions.
✅ Play-based therapies like JASPER can be enhanced with targeted speech interventions like PROMPT.
✅ Adaptive interventions that adjust to a child's progress show promise for minimally verbal children.

🛠️ PRACTICAL TIPS

📌 Talk to your child's therapists about the possibility of integrating play-based and speech-based activities into their therapy plan.
📌 Observe your child during play and note any specific speech or communication challenges. Share these observations with the therapy team.
📌 Create a language-rich environment at home by engaging in interactive play, reading books, and encouraging communication in various forms.

📖 READ MORE

🔗 https://clinicaltrials.ucbraid.org/autism
🔗 https://ucla.clinicaltrials.re....searcherprofiles.org

💬 What strategies have you found helpful in supporting your child's language development? Share your experiences in the comments!