Making the World a Better Place for People with Autism

Held on June 18th each year, Autistic Pride Day recognizes the importance of pride for autistic people and its role in bringing about positive changes in society. Led by people with autism spectrum disorder advocating for themselves, the day serves as a reminder that people with autism have always been and will continue to be an important, treasured part of our human society. 

While Children’s Integrated Services (CIS) Early Intervention of Bennington County works every day to help families meet their child's special health needs and address developmental delays, we want to take this opportunity to announce a new program and highlight some services specific to individuals on the autism spectrum disorder and those who support them.

Because drowning is one of the most common causes of death for autistic individuals, CIS is very happy to introduce the Safety Around Water/Swim Lesson program. Designed exclusively for families with children with autism spectrum disorder and/or Cerebral Palsy/Global developmental delays, the five-week program meets on a weekly basis at the Berkshire Family YMCA/Rec Center in Bennington. Led by a certified lifeguard/safety instructor along with a support instructor, the classes expose children to water and teaches them basic skills to keep them safer in the water. To learn more, contact Jennie Moon at CIS (802.447-2768 ext. 5841).

In addition, CIS recently launched a diagnostic telehealth program with Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center to provide diagnostic services specific to autism. The service addresses both the lack of developmental pediatricians in the region and provides options for families who may not be able to travel out of the area to meet with providers due to a lack of transportation or limited time off. Some studies have shown that children in rural settings receive diagnoses six months to a year later than their peers in better-served communities. 

Offered at CIS office on the Putnam Block, the online sessions connect families via telehealth platform with qualified providers who can effectively assess children and determine if they meet the criteria for an autism spectrum diagnosis. Earlier diagnosis allows for quicker access to services that help children thrive.

And as part of our ongoing effort to support those who care for others on the spectrum, CIS offers a free Family Networking event. Held the third Tuesday of every month at 5:30 p.m. at the UCS Spring Center Playground during the summer month (a new location will be announced for the winter). The free program offers families the opportunity to connect with others facing similar challenges and share resources, approaches, and to talk freely about their own well-being. To learn more, contact Jennie Moon at CIS (802.447-2768 ext. 5841).

Jennie Moon is the program coordinator of Children’s Integrated Services (CIS) Early Intervention in Bennington.