A graduate of Abilene Christian University, Jennifer had a long career in TV Broadcasting. Upon learning her oldest son Sam had a form of Autism called Asperger’s Syndrome, she left her career and became a full-time mother to both of her sons. Jennifer elicited the participation of her family and together they produced several independent programs including a children’s animated series titled Ameriquest Kids, as well as a documentary and book titled, Coping to Excelling: Solutions for School-age Children Diagnosed with High-Functioning Autism or Aspergers Syndrome. She formed the nonprofit Asperger101 to provide on-going free resources related to ASD at Aspergers101.com and has implemented the Texas Driving with Disability Program and continues to grow the statewide initiative today. She and her husband have recently retired to their property in the Texas Hill Country.
Aspergers youth process information differently than their neuro-typical peers. More specifically, they generally think in a visual, concrete, detail-oriented manner for every task. They like to know every detail about something, especially when it is critical to survival and to excellence at a given task; driving encompasses both survival andContinue Reading
Such a title makes for a bold statement but also dictates a life-changing action. When my son Sam was first diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (then, named Asperger Syndrome) our lives certainly changed. Though almost 20 years ago, much the same triumphs and challenges still exist for him but onContinue Reading
Dr. Grandin speaks as I’ve never heard her before! Opens up about her life experiences while offering valuable tips for succeeding with the Autism Spectrum Disorder diagnosis. Great listen for parents, educators, employers, and those with ASD. She touches on putting career first and autism second and gives examples ofContinue Reading
It is my hope that this documentary will aid you in your journey with Autism/Asperger Syndrome. I began this work early on when my son Sam was finally diagnosed. One strong statement that is in the documentary came from Dr. Jannesa Manning whose area of study, at the time ofContinue Reading
Dr Louise O’Donnell offers Quick Tips for Drivers who are diagnosed with Autism when being pulled over by an officer of the law. In part 1 below, Dr. O’Donnell touches on the basics of composure such a the surge of panic/anxiety that might occur when first approached after a pull-over.Continue Reading
As you are in the midst of family & social gatherings, we offer you our best on preparing for the potential nightmares of sensory overloads and societal expectations. The change in routine is the biggest difficulty during the holidays. Below are suggestions for you or for those you think might need theContinue Reading
Jennifer AllenA graduate of Abilene Christian University, Jennifer had a long career in TV Broadcasting. Upon learning her oldest son Sam had a form of Autism called Asperger’s Syndrome, she left her career and became a full-time mother to both of her sons. Jennifer elicited the participation of her familyContinue Reading
Her heart supplies flow to remote extremities not her own. Life beyond her own requires all she can give, all of the time, for the rest of her life. A new reality not familiar but all encompassing. She is the caregiver and life support for a child with autism. SheContinue Reading
We at Aspergers101 would like to thank all who’ve taken part in getting the “Driving with Autism and other Communication Impediments” initiative state-wide in Texas! Two versions of the Public Service Announcement currently are airing across Texas on both TV and radio stations. Samuel Allen/Spokesperson of the Aspergers101 Driving withContinue Reading
Excellent basic overview of High Functioning Autism and Aspergers Syndrome! The Coping to Excelling documentary sheds illuminating light on the topic of High-Functioning Autism and Asperger’s Syndrome in school-aged children. Narrated by a Mother of a son with Asperger’s, this engaging program allows the viewer to ‘see through the eyes’Continue Reading
A Care-giver Series: by Dr. Ghia Edwards This is the third installment of my piece speaking about the health of a caregiver and it has been an interesting journey these past weeks. We as caregivers get in such and stay in such serious modes, that sometimes it takes something drasticContinue Reading
A Quick Read Even before the official diagnosis of Asperger’s Syndrome, we knew our son Sam walked apart from the crowd. His early intense interest in a subject matter, and not in his peers, was the perfect mix for oddity starting the early sociable elementary years. While we, as Sam’s parents, grewContinue Reading
