Discover SPARK
Get the latest autism updates from SPARK, including information about genes and ASD research, webinars, and personal stories from our community.
Our ‘genes’ page provides short, easy-to-understand descriptions of genes linked to autism. Under ‘research’, you’ll find the latest updates from SPARK and other autism studies. In our ‘stories’ section, families, scientists and others share their journeys. In our monthly webinars, speakers from the autism community provide useful information for families and people with autism. All are welcome–invitation links are issued in our monthly newsletter. If you have suggestions for webinar topics, please email us at webinars@sparkforautism.org.
When Trudi Sullivan was being evaluated for an autism spectrum disorder, she was ushered into a room that included a child-sized chair. That chair was a reminder that she was getting her diagnosis later than most people — decades later.
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Genetic analysis from the first 457 families to enroll in SPARK provides new support for several genes linked to autism.
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The Lombardis joined SPARK to help scientists learn more about autism and epilepsy, which both affect son RJ. They want better treatments to reduce the risks of seizures. “This is a matter of life or death,” RJ’s mother says.
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As a young man, Adam Farris found himself in a tough place. With poor social skills, he could not keep a job or friends. Then he received an autism diagnosis – and help with social and life skills. With that, he transformed his life.
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In this webinar, Carolyn Shivers discusses research on the experiences of typically-developing siblings of people who have autism.
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In this webinar, Roma Vasa and Elizabeth Wise share information about research on anxiety and depression in autism. They also provide information about various treatments for anxiety and depression.
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In this webinar, Beth Malow shares more about research on sleep and autism. She also gives practical tips and resources related to sleep.
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Dr. LeeAnne Green-Snyder describes what information SPARK collects and why.
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In this webinar, Melissa Hale gives a general overview of ABA and provides examples of research that shows its effectiveness.
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Researchers have found that most young children with autism spectrum disorder and severe language delay developed “phrase or fluent” speech by age 8, with almost half achieving fluent speech.
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