AutismCollege.com is one of Ten Autism Tech Sites recommended by Mashable.com (April 2013)
Chantal Sicile-Kira is a Top Ten Autism Blogger and Social HealthMaker by Sharecare (April 2013)
Little did I know years ago when I had my first experience with autism, that autism would become my life’s passion. I needed a full-time job to support myself while finishing college at the University of California at Irvine, and so I applied at Fairview State Hospital (now Fairview Developmental Center). I prepared young people who were impacted by severe developmental disabilities – many of them autistic – for de-institutionalization and for life in the community. Then, I worked at the Regional Center of Orange County, providing information to parents of children, teens and adults with developmental disabilities.
Later I moved to France, and Jeremy and Rebecca were born there. Jeremy was eventually diagnosed as severely autistic, and I was told to find a good institution for him. Instead I home schooled him and then enrolled him in the neighborhood school. Jeremy still requires many supports and life is not easy for him. I never thought he would graduate from high school; my goals for him were always more about independence and communication. But I never gave up on him. he is still learning every day and would like to live in his own home.
A few years back, I began writing books (now on my sixth) and giving presentations in order to empower parents and educators with the practical knowledge. Then, in 2010, I founded Autism College so that people could get educated about autism on-line. We offered on-line training courses and Q & A ‘s with Visiting Professors. Since January 2017, Autism College has transitioned into a place to read information, connect with me for speaking engagements and to know more about the journey Jeremy and his family have taken since Jeremy moved out into supported living and became an artist through his business, Jeremy’s Vision.
At Autism College, you’ll continue to find hope, inspiration, and to get educated about autism through our experiences.
~ Chantal Sicile-Kira
Founder, Autism College