Sing Songs of the Spectrum – Buy This CD
November 25, 2009 by Abby
Filed under Individuals With Autism
Sing Songs of the Spectrum (SOS) is an amazing music project which was created to raise “awareness, funds and spirits”. Visit their website to read more about the project or read the article written by John O’Neil (the creator) on the NY Times Topic page:
Autism Artist Debuts. The lyrics to the songs were written by John O’Neil, Deena Shoshkes, and John’s son James. The songs were recorded by Jackson Browne (with Valerie Carter), Dar Williams, Marshall Crenshaw, Teddy Geiger, Jonatha Brooke, Richard Julian, Dan Bern (with Mike Viola), Don Dixon (with Marti Jones), Olabelle, Christina Courtin, Ari Hest, Kelly Flint and The Cucumbers.
During this beautiful holiday season, why not donate to a fund of your choice and share this CD with your friends and family. The lyrics will surely touch your heart, I know they did mine.
![[Valid Atom 1.0]](http://autism-community.com/images/valid-atom.png "Validate my Atom 1.0 feed")
Helping my 21 year old son to “be” in the world is as difficult in it’s own unique ways as it was when he was little and had no language, behavioral issues, etc.
Finding good supports and services for the young 18-30 year old’s after they leave the school system is hit and miss. Here in California our supports are being cut left, right and center.
While I work making films in autism and other disabilities and work with my son and others in the arts to support and encourage the development of social and life skills, it’s not always so easy to work with my own son.
I find I have to let go and have others do this (for the most part) in order to help him maintain his sense of self and not feel babied by me. He responds (as an adult) much better to outside supports.
He does respond well to my suggestions when I don’t get too close to “s”mothering him.
Any other professional / parents out there who experience the same issues?
Keri – Thank you for your comment. The unfortunate reality of our system in its current state is that services after school are based on an eligibility system rather than an entitlement system. This means that unless you meet specific eligibility requirements which are determined by individual service providers, you may not have many services available to you. In addition to this limitation, the number and quality of services available to adults with disabilities is significantly lacking across the country. It is great that you’ve found ways to support your son as he has entered adulthood with an understanding that he needs to be with other people besides his mother to help aid his development and independence. This can be very difficult for families, but it is an important step to helping young adults find themselves in the world.
As I come across additional supports and opportunities for adults with autism, they will be posted. I’m always trying to find services for families which suit the needs of each individual. If anyone else has come across high-quality or creative programs in your area, please share them here.