Little Star learners visited the Indianapolis Zoo recently to see the animals and play in the water park.  The favorite activity for most, however, was the dolphin show!

Assistant Clinical Director Leigh Broughan, MA, BCBA, cautions parents of children with autism to be discerning when reading about trendy treatments, diets, or products that claim positive changes in behavior.  For example, one recent story stated that eating specific mushrooms may have positive effects on a person with autism’s behavior and may reduce repetitive behavior.  Unfortunately, no actual scientific studies were provided for these claims.

Another recent article asserts that children who have had negative past experience with dogs will find the potbellied pig to be a good therapy animal.  Although animals can be fun and make good companions, there have been no actual scientific studies of animal therapy for autism.

“Parents need to know how to look for good science,” said Leigh.  “I respect parents wanting to try different things that might help; however, I want parents to make good, informed choices and know how to evaluate treatments so that precious resources and time will not be wasted.  Some fad treatments can even adversely affect a child’s health.”

Leigh serves on the board of the Association for Science in Autism Treatment (ASAT), which is dedicated to disseminating scientifically-validated treatments for autism.   The organization’s website (www.asatonline.org) provides descriptions of a variety of treatments on its website, including whether good scientific evidence exists to support each one or if there are health risks associated.  The site also offers tips for parents to help them evaluate treatments they hear about and determine if they are real or pseudoscience.

Two Little Star learners were among the many attendees during the popular Duke Realty annual Ice Cream Social at Hamilton Crossing Boulevard.  Staff and learners alike enjoyed the selection of ice cream, fruit bars and lemon shake-ups and a trip to the playground.

23 Little Star learners visited Conner Prairie Interactive History Park this week.  The learners toured Prairie Town, stopping at the general store and woodworking shop.  In the Indian Village, the learners found the carved wooden canoes of particular interest.  But, hands down, the favorite part of the outing was the animal barn where they had the opportunity to pet goats, sheep, and watch the chickens.

Immortal Ink, a tattoo and body piercing shop in Lafayette, Indiana, conducted a fundraiser for Little Star Center – Lafayette during Autism Awareness Month.  Over a two-day period, April 27-28, owner Highlander Orndorff and other artists served a larger than normal clientele to help increase awareness of the medical condition.

“My wife and I discussed doing this a year ago, but thought we’d get more attention if we held it during Autism Awareness Month, which is in April,” said Orndorff. “She has a grandchild who was diagnosed with mild autism.  A lot of people don’t know much about it and we wanted to help bring some attention to it.”

Highlander said the event raised $1,100 for Little Star and he plans to conduct the fundraiser again next year.

Shelly Will, Little Star-Lafayette Center Manager, said “It was very thoughtful of them to think of us and I was very touched with their interest in increasing awareness, particularly as they have experienced it personally.” Funds will go toward the building of a playground at the Lafayette center.

WLFI-TV 18 reporter David DeLong was on the scene to see how Robyn Eads, Little Star Center-Carmel therapist, supported the cause. ”It really hurt; bu,t I like the autism symbol of puzzle pieces that was tattooed on my ankle.  It was worth it.”  Click here to see TV footage.