Get out, Explore, and Have Fun! (eBook)

Lisa Jo Rudy is a professional writer, researcher and consultant, and the mother of a 13-year-old boy with an autism spectrum disorder. Since 2006, she has been the 'About.com Guide to Autism' (www.autism.about.com), a part of The New York Times Company. Lisa has more than twenty years of experience in developing hands-on exhibits, interactive games, books and activities for kids with every learning style. She is passionate about creating opportunities for young people to build on their abilities, strengths and passions. Lisa has founded an inclusive summer program for children with autism in collaboration with the YMCA, written articles on inclusion for museum professionals, presented workshops on the subject, and is working toward development of related programs for the future. Lisa's website can be found at www.lisarudy.com.

Preface. 1. Getting Out, Exploring, and Having Fun: Why Does it Matter? 2. Preparing Yourself and Your Child to Get Out, Explore, and Have Fun. 3. How to Learn About and Select Community Settings for Your Child and Family. 4. Sports and Autism. 5. Youth Groups: Scouts, 4-H, the YMCA, and More. 6. Museums, Zoos, Aquariums, and More. 7. Autism and Faith Communities. 8. The Visual and Performing Arts. 9. Summer Camps and the Natural World. 10. Special Interests, Clubs, Family Outings, and Other Ideas. 11. Selling the Idea of Inclusion. Appendix 1: A General Guide to Autism for Community Leaders. Appendix 2: Sample Grant Proposal. Appendix 3: Resource List. Index.