TAP

10/24/2023

We apologize for the inconvenience, but due to unforeseen circumstances, we were forced to reschedule tonight's ASSIST Training last minute. Tonight's session covering Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) & Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) has been rescheduled for November 6th.

ASSIST Training Program Transitioning from school-based to adult service systems is challenging for many families of youth on the autism spectrum. Addition ...

10/20/2023

The Autism Transition Subcommittee is conducting this survey to assess parent/family knowledge when it comes to understanding services available for the autism population leading up to and during their high school transition years. By gaining an understanding of this, the IATF as well as autism-based service entities and schools can target their messaging and parent education to better guide parents, students, and families with the goal of improving student success after high school.

This survey makes no distinction between educational classification of autism or medical diagnosis, all are encouraged to complete the survey. Please follow the link to complete the survey. It should take approximately 15 minutes. Thank you for your help.

https://www.dhs.state.il.us/page.aspx?module=17&item=144748&surveyid=1639&fbclid=IwAR0ShI8B3PSJCkcujOYFTrhO7OGCWPU0BDm3r-xEgtomJ_GsRFHWldXfh1M

10/16/2023

From our friends at Have Dreams - because all kids should be able to enjoy Halloween!

10/13/2023

In 2003, the Illinois General Assembly passed Public Act 93-0395 that established The Autism Program of Illinois (TAP). Together with Hope (who still serves as the lead agency), TAP became a statewide network of autism resources and services.

10/11/2023

In Fiscal Year 2023, TAP conducted 523 ASD-specific diagnostic evaluations resulting in 339 formal diagnoses of Autism Spectrum Disorder.

10/10/2023

Be sure to mark October 28th on your calendar and join our Network Partner, CTF ILLINOIS for some fun!

10/09/2023

This National Disability Employment Awareness Month, let's take a moment and rethink talent. Consider the unique strengths and perspectives that individuals with autism bring to the table. Let's champion diversity in hiring!

10/02/2023

Everyone deserves to have fun on Halloween

As we gear up for Halloween, it's essential to be aware of the unique challenges some of our youngest neighbors might face. Children with autism and IDD may encounter:

🧡Sensory Overload - The bright lights, costumes, and sounds can be intense.
🖤Social Challenges - Interactions during trick-or-treating, like picking up on social cues or stepping into unfamiliar places, can be daunting.
🧡Dietary Needs - Not all candies are suitable for every child due to dietary restrictions or sensitivities.

Let's be compassionate, patient, and understanding. Consider having a variety of treats or non-food items available for the kiddos! Together, we can ensure a fun and inclusive Halloween for everyone.

09/27/2023

Registration is now open for our ASSIST Trainings through January 22. Visit our website for full details and to register for free

ASSIST Training Program Transitioning from school-based to adult service systems is challenging for many families of youth on the autism spectrum. Addition ...

09/14/2023

21 de septiembre

Sep 21 2023 Comprendiendo el Autismo y Apoyos Visuales RCADD Workshops September 21, 2023 10:00 AM - 11:15 AM Location Virtual Workshop: Zoom Zoom Meeting https://uic.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZIvcOCuqDIuGtIku3FGH8A6xx07uos5m53n Cost Free Calendar Download iCal File Un resumen para padres, familias,...

09/09/2023

"To every Direct Service Professional working with our autism community: Your compassion, dedication, and resilience do not go unnoticed. Happy DSP Appreciation Week! 🌟 "

09/08/2023

In FY23, The Autism Program of Illinois held 22 expert-led trainings with over 315 participants- a testament to our unwavering commitment to strengthening Illinois’ system of care for individuals with autism spectrum disorder.

Find out more about TAP-lead trainings at https://tap-illinois.org/training/

09/06/2023

Network Partner Spotlight: Kreider Services (DBA Florissa)

Florissa is a centralized service facility for children (0-18 years of age) with developmental, behavioral, social or emotional needs. The main goal of the pediatric developmental center in Dixon is to provide the opportunity locally for evaluation, diagnosis and treatment under one roof.

Kreider Services

09/04/2023

As we celebrate the tireless dedication and hard work of countless professionals nationwide, we want to extend a heartfelt acknowledgment to our team and our network partners. Day in and day out, your commitment to enhancing the lives of those with autism spectrum disorder and their families is unparalleled. Here's to the spirit of hard work, collaboration, and the meaningful impact we create together.

Wishing everyone a restful and rejuvenating Labor Day. 🌟

08/31/2023

🎓 Exciting News! The Autism Program of Illinois (TAP) offers a FREE virtual ASSIST Training for parents of youth with autism who live in Illinois. Dive deep into topics related to transitioning to adulthood. The next session is on Sept 11, with Tim Rigby presenting "Surrogate Decision-Making: Guardianship and Alternatives."

📅 Check the full schedule and register at our website: tap-illinois.orghttps://tap-illinois.org/assist/

08/23/2023

This is open to any and all agencies that benefit people with disabilities within the ROE11 area.

Our Transition Planning Committee is planning a resource and agency fair for educators and staff that work with students with disabilities. We want to give educators information about the services their students have in their communities. We would like for your agency to have an informational table at our event. Please see the attached flyer for more information and registration. We want to extend the invite to any and all agencies that benefit people with disabilities within the ROE11 area. Please forward to anyone you think might be interested in sharing info about their organization!

https://forms.gle/epHkTvu4t7gh6Sjr8

08/17/2023

TAP network partner agency Have Dreams has opened registration for their Basic Elements of Structured Teaching PLUS (BEST+) training. Follow the link to find out more and to get registered. 15 professional development hours are available with the training.

Have Dreams has reimagined our highly successful BEST training to better meet the needs of today’s educators! One training day per month for three months Participants will have a classroom assignment following days one and two to better implement the principles of Structured Teaching Particip

08/07/2023

🚨🚨Registration is now open for the first 4 ASSIST Training sessions🚨🚨

📅Aug 14 | Person-Centered Planning
📅Sept 11 | Surrogate Decision-Making: Guardianship and Alternatives
📅Oct 9 | Supplementary Security Income (SSI)
📅Oct 23 | Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) & Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)

All sessions are held virtually from 6 pm to 8 pm.

👉 Open to residents of Illinois ONLY. 👈

Please visit our website to register online: https://tap-illinois.org/assist/

08/02/2023

Research shows that early diagnosis and appropriate evidence-based autism interventions offer a child diagnosed on the autism spectrum the best opportunity to achieve their maximum potential. Services are based upon a child’s individual needs and may include behavioral therapy, individual therapy, or group interventions, as well as other services to help a child communicate, interact with others, and develop independent living skills.

Find out more at https://tap-illinois.org/autism-treatment-therapy/

07/31/2023

The new school year is just around the corner! From our TAP Network partner, Have Dreams, is a great resource for preparing your student for the upcoming change in schedule and routine.

If you would like more information, be sure to check out their "Back to School" page under the Parents Tab on the Have Dreams home page. There you will be able to download a copy of this flyer as well as their back-to-school social story, recipes and other helpful visuals. Check it out at https://havedreams.org/back-to-school

07/28/2023

🔊 Big announcement for parents and caregivers in Illinois! Session 1 of our 12-part ASSIST series is Monday, August 14 at 6pm via Zoom. 💻

This session, titled "Person-Driven Planning with Your Child," will shed light on the importance of person-centered planning and how to make your child the driver of the process. 🧑‍🤝‍🧑

The ASSIST Training is free to all Illinois parents/guardians who have a child with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) ages fourteen to twenty-two.

Don't miss this chance to equip yourself with invaluable knowledge and skills. Register now! ✍️https://tap-illinois.org/assist/

ASSIST Training Program Transitioning from school-based to adult service systems is challenging for many families of youth on the autism spectrum. Addition ...

07/27/2023

Network Partner Spotlight - Resource Center for Autism and Developmental Delays (RCADD)

The Resource Center for Autism and Developmental Delays provides support for those who care for, teach and serve children with an Autism Spectrum Disorder or other developmental delays throughout the Chicago area.

Find out more about the work they do and see their calendar of upcoming workshops at https://cfl.uic.edu/overview/rcadd/

07/26/2023

🎉 Today we honor the 33rd anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act, a pivotal moment in our history. Let's take a moment to recognize the incredible achievements of individuals with disabilities, their contributions to society, and the ongoing work needed to ensure their full inclusion. Together, we can build a more inclusive and accessible world.

07/24/2023

While a child - or adult - with ASD may develop little to no verbal language skills, they can be effective in communicating using NON-verbal communication such as gestures,
pictures or drawings, or even physically directing someone to an item or location.

Some individuals learn to communicate by using an augmentative communication device such as a smartphone or tablet or American Sign Langauge.

07/21/2023

In 2004 the prevalence rate of autism, according to the CDC, was 1 in 125 children. By March of 2022, the number had risen to 1 in 36- most likely because of more effective diagnostic tools and growing awareness and advocacy.

07/19/2023

Network Partner, The Autism Clinic at Hope is hosting a FREE webinar on August 1 for educators who want to create a more inclusive environment in their classrooms in the new school year

Hope is excited to announce an upcoming webinar titled "Proactive Planning in the Classroom," designed specifically for teachers like you who are ...

07/19/2023

Other Possible signs of autism at any age can include:

🟪Avoids eye contact and prefers to be alone

🟪Struggles with understanding other people’s feelings

🟪Remains nonverbal or has delayed language development

🟪Repeats words or phrases over and over (echolalia)

🟪Gets upset by minor changes in routine or surroundings

🟪Has highly restricted interests

🟪Performs repetitive behaviors such as flapping, rocking or spinning

🟪Has unusual and often intense reactions to sounds, smells, tastes, textures, lights and/or colors

If you have concerns about your child, talk to your pediatrician or visit our referral portal to find services nearest you: https://tap-illinois.org/registration/

07/17/2023

Network Partner Spotlight - TAP - UIUC Champaign Urbana

The Autism Program at UIUC is a community-focused program of the Department of Human Development and Family Studies and the Department of Special Education at the University of Illinois.

They focus on:

✅Providing a resource and referral center for parents and professionals.
✅Developing and evaluating model programs in training and family support.
✅Facilitating collaborations between agencies, schools, and individuals that enhance the community’s capacity and quality of services for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) and their families.

Find out more at: https://theautismprogram.illinois.edu/

07/14/2023

Network Partner Spotlight:

The Trinity Counseling Center offers evidenced-based psychotherapy for children, adolescents, adults, and couples in individual and group formats in English and Spanish.

Funding provided in whole or in part by The Autism Program of Illinois and the Illinois Department of Human Services assists the Trinity Counseling Center in providing diagnostic therapy, social skills groups, parent training and family counseling.

Find out more at https://www.trinityservices.org/services-and-supports/trinity-counseling-center

07/13/2023

It's !! We aren't going that far back, though😉 If you weren't able to attend this year's Symposium or just want a refresh, here is the presentation from our keynote speaker, Connie Kasari, Ph.D.,

The ability to engage with others and to communicate are primary targets of early interventions for children with autism. This talk will focus on an early in...

07/10/2023

The Autism Program of Illinois (TAP) provides a variety of services and resources throughout the state of Illinois.

Follow the link to be taken to our referral portal and connected to your nearest TAP service provider.

https://tap-illinois.org/registration/

07/04/2023

🌟 Wishing everyone a fantastic Fourth of July! As we gather to celebrate our country's independence, let's remember to spread love, kindness, and gratitude. Stay safe, take a moment to appreciate the brave heroes who fought for our freedom, and have an unforgettable day! 🇺🇸💙❤️ "

07/03/2023

From our network partner Have Dreams, some great information about preparing for the 4th of July tomorrow

06/30/2023

You may have noticed that TAP Illinois offers several ADOS-2 trainings throughout the year (new dates will be published soon)> However, as a parent or caregiver, you may wonder what ADOS-2 actually is. This article provides a good explanation of what this evaluation tool is and how it fits into the larger picture of a formal evaluation. Remember ADOS-2 is just one part of a full comprehensive evaluation.

A guide to the autistic diagnostic observation schedule and what it means for parents who believe their child could be on the autism spectrum.

06/23/2023

Network Partner Spotlight

In 2005 Grupo SALTO was incorporated as a non-profit organization in the state of Illinois in response to the need for support for families in the Chicago area who have children on the autism spectrum and whose main language is Spanish.

With more than 550 families enrolled, GrupoSALTO provides culturally and linguistically appropriate training, education, resources, and support. Grupo SALTO promotes leadership advocacy within the Spanish-speaking community. The group meets monthly (except in August) for educational and social events.

Find out more at https://gruposalto.org/

06/22/2023

In 2003, the Illinois General Assembly responded to the outpouring of concern regarding the prevalence of autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) among children and the lack of available services by passing Public Act 93-0395.

That Act established The Autism Program of Illinois (TAP). Together with Hope (who still serves as the lead agency), TAP became a statewide network of autism resources and services.

At that time, the U. S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimated that 1 in 150 U.S. children were being diagnosed with ASD. As of March 2023, the prevalence rate has grown to 1 in 36 children living with ASD in the US.

06/19/2023

Juneteenth has never been a celebration of victory or an acceptance of the way things are. It's a celebration of progress. It's an affirmation that despite the most painful parts of our history, change is possible—and there is still so much work to do." — Barack Obama

06/18/2023

To all the fathers who serve as role models, mentors, and friends, Happy Father's Day! Your guidance and support make a significant difference in the lives of those around you. Here's to celebrating you and all that you do! 🎉👏 "

06/16/2023

Some may take something like going to the grocery store as a simple everyday task. However, when you are a parent or caregiver of an individual with autism or other developmental or intellectual disability, a little more planning may be required.

Thank you to our Network Partner Have Dreams for preparing this tip sheet in both English and Spanish.

Find more tip sheets at the TAP Illinois website at https://tap-illinois.org/tip-sheets/

06/15/2023

The University of Illinois Chicago online Mindfulness Summer Camp starts next week!