Mississippi Center for Autism

08/23/2026

When your child moves out of early childhood and preschool special education services into kindergarten in an elementary school, it can be both challenging and exciting.

Your child has been learning many skills in preschool. These skills will help your child to be successful in kindergarten. You can also help your child be prepared for kindergarten by following these tips.

Download Tip Sheet:http://www.msccd.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/Preschool-to-Kindergarten.pdf

08/23/2026

🚗 Learning to Drive with Autism: Building Confidence Behind the Wheel

Getting behind the wheel is a big step toward independence. And for people with autism, it can come with its own unique questions and challenges. Join the Doug Flutie Jr. Foundation for Autism for a free live webinar featuring professional NASCAR driver, Armani Williams, Andrew Arboe: Autistic Self-Advocate and Speaker, and Centerpoint Driving Academy LLC to hear real experiences, practical tips, and helpful resources for the journey toward driving independence.

📅 Wednesday, August 26 at 7:00 PM ET
💻 Live via Zoom (Link to be emailed after registration)

Register now using the link below! 👇

🔗 https://forms.monday.com/forms/3b3c9f660d0a6ea54bc90f3dcb650ffb?r=use1

08/23/2026

FREE COMMUNITY EVENT: Hope for Tomorrow Movie Screening and Resource Fair

The Mississippi Department of Child Protection Services is hosting a free screening of Sound of Hope: The Story of Possum Trot on Saturday, August 29th, in Biloxi.

Following the film, stay for a panel discussion featuring local resource providers working to support children and families across Mississippi.

When: Saturday, August 29th from 1:00 PM to 4:30 PM

Where: Army KROC Salvation Army Kroc Center MS Gulf Coast (575 Division St., Biloxi, MS 39532)

Free admission, popcorn, and drinks!

We extend a sincere thank you to the Kroc Center MS Gulf Coast for hosting this event, as well as our community partners: Prepare HER Now, WIC, and the MS LIFT Resource & Referral Network at MSU Extension.

We look forward to seeing you there!

08/23/2026

There’s a lot happening at Wayfinder this week! 🌱🎮💰

From our Homeschool Community Days to our littlest learners at STEM Sprouts, plus Esports Open Play, a FREE financial literacy class, and even a private event — Wayfinder is going to be busy!

📅 Monday, August 24
⚙️ Homeschool Community Day | 10 AM–12 PM

📅 Wednesday, August 26
⚙️ Homeschool Community Day | 10 AM–12 PM

📅 Thursday, August 27
🌱 STEM Sprouts | 9:30–10:30 AM
💰 Money Matters | 5–6 PM | FREE
🎮 Esports Open Play | 5–7 PM
✨ Private Event | Evening

Register for Homeschool, STEM Sprouts & Esports:
https://www.hisawyer.com/catalyst-learning/schedules?schedule_id=camps&slug=catalyst-learning

Register FREE for Money Matters:
https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/money-matters-what-no-one-taught-us-about-personal-finance

Come explore, create, and thrive with us at Wayfinder! 💙

08/23/2026

🚨 NAA applauds the announcement of a NATIONAL AUTISM MISSING AND ENDANGERED PERSON ALERT initiative led by HHS in partnership with DOJ, FEMA, and DHS.

💙 When a person with autism goes missing, every minute matters.

08/23/2026

Success means creating a positive influence that transforms lives significantly, and our team's mission is to provide your family with the support, tools, and resources essential for achieving just that!

Need extra support?
🖥️ autismcenternms.com/resources
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08/08/2026

https://www.facebook.com/share/192VkHgCGr/?mibextid=wwXIfr

Illinois has become the first state in the country to create a new pathway allowing specially trained speech-language pathologists to diagnose autism in certain young children.

The change is aimed at children under 3 in Illinois’ Early Intervention Program, where families can face months or even years waiting for an autism evaluation. Under the new law, qualified SLPs with specific autism diagnostic training will be able to provide evaluations alongside the existing medical pathway.

The idea grew from Northwestern University’s “Reduce the Wait” research, which looked at how children could receive answers and support earlier.

For families sitting on long waitlists, another qualified route to diagnosis could mean getting support much sooner.

The law was signed July 10 and is expected to take effect January 1, 2028, following an implementation period.

📰 : Illinois General Assembly, Northwestern University

08/06/2026

https://www.wlox.com/2026/08/03/wiggins-police-launch-special-needs-registry-program/?fbclid=IwQ0xDSwThbxhwZG9mAWZkaWQWUL8Hfqhfeh_Hag2a3XP2DSOIUAJCQ2V4dG4DYWVtAjExAHNydGMGYXBwX2lkCjY2Mjg1NjgzNzkAAR6s_OQmAabpOjHcGxzCaBE3_rgcoCIUDqUtunnyH_-Vnx7uPyKNJNmZFuoP5Q_aem_Ll1nXVF5M0ZjBewqJFoDVA

The Wiggins Police Department will launch a voluntary program Aug. 10 that allows residents or caregivers to share information about disabilities or special needs with emergency responders before officers arrive on scene.

08/06/2026

https://www.facebook.com/share/1D4FhPXv9V/?mibextid=wwXIfr

FLORIDA NOW REQUIRES EVERY PUBLIC SCHOOL DISTRICT TO PROVIDE ANNUAL AUTISM TRAINING FOR TEACHERS AND SCHOOL LEADERS. THE NEW LAW AIMS TO HELP EDUCATORS BETTER UNDERSTAND, SUPPORT, AND INCLUDE STUDENTS WITH AUTISM. This groundbreaking legislation is a massive step forward for neurodivergent advocacy within the educational system. By equipping teachers and administrators with specialized knowledge, schools can finally move away from outdated disciplinary models and toward genuine accommodation. Understanding sensory needs, communication styles, and behavioral triggers is essential for creating an environment where autistic students can truly thrive. This proactive approach ensures that the classroom becomes a safe, supportive space for every type of learner, setting a standard that the rest of the world desperately needs to follow.