At the Autism Society of the Mahoning Valley, we believe in the power of connection—and nowhere is that more evident than at our Mahoning Valley Warrior event. Each year, hundreds of families, friends, service providers, schools, businesses, and advocates gather to walk, run, pull tractors, lift, laugh, and share stories.

This may be my first official experience as a Mahoning Valley Warrior, but in reality, I have been preparing for this role for the entirety of my daughter’s life.

I remember the fear. The uncertainty. The loneliness.

It’s labeled transition when a child moves from one task or situation to another. Regarding teens and young adults on the autism spectrum or other special needs, so much time, energy, and worry goes into transitions.

For some, it’s decorating with mums and enjoying the annual Pumpkin Spice Latte. As a parent of two boys with autism, it’s trying to do this while trying to balance our world.

I always take a moment at the start of the calendar year and then again at the beginning of the school year to evaluate how we are doing. 

While helping at Camp FRIEND, I was immersed in every variety of autism’s stages and phases. Transitions, social skills, and speech often do not come easy for our children and teens.

Do you know of any great teachers in Mahoning Valley schools assisting students on the autism spectrum or with special needs?