I recently attended the Back to School Autism/Asperger's Conference in Pasadena, California. I even tape recorded the first hour from Temple Grandin's presentation on Developing Talents at School and at Home. I highly recommend hearing one of her speeches. After leaving the auditorium I had this lump in my throat. Temple makes herself available near the room she has her presentations. Many purchased her books and got a personalized autograph from Dr. Grandin.

The booklet that each attendee received included the following articles from Temple Grandin:

Teaching Tips for children and adults with autism this was revised December of 2002

Social Problems: Understanding Emotions and Developing Talents February 1999

The whole hallway of the section of the Pasadena College had exhibitors with their tables on display. I was able to visit many before the conference started and then during breaks. The longest line was that of those who did not pre-register for the conference!

The break-out session presenters stated that they would have their power point materials available at the conference website. Since I was only able to attend on Saturday I was thrilled to see that the conference brochure also included the power point presentation from Barabara Doyle, MS, entitled Everyone Can Learn, Anyone Can Teach - Tips and Tricks from a Master Teacher.

The following are some highlights from the Exhibitor tables:

Kirkman - I never saw anyone man this table, but the contents were clearly marked and organized for anyone to receive samples. I was able to obtain samples of the following dietary supplements:

Nu-Thera, Zinc, Advanced Mineral Support, Chewable Calcium with Vitamin D and Thera Response. There was also the brochure, The Kirkman Roadmap.

Perky's Natural Foods - There were samples of the gluten and nut free cereal that is also available in Apple Cinnamon and Frosted. This table also had the brochure - food allergy & intolerance survival guide.

AACA - Academy for the Advancement of Children with Autism - had labels with their name, website and phone number over Hershey candy bars. When you turned over the bar they listed some interesting facts about their organization similar to the ingredients and daily value of nutrients found in a candy bar. Tghey have 110% devoted staff, specialized services, speech, discreet trials, floor time and much more.

Familias First - this organization had pre-made white plastic bags with goodies inside for all attendees who passed by their table. A handy letter opener with their business card inside, a cute magnet bookmark and a pocket calendar starting with December 2006. They have quality behavioral services for the Los Angeles area.

Autism Asperger Publishing Company - they had a large array of books on many topics, including books from the presenters. I received a postcard in the mail thanking me for stopping by their table. This card mentioned I would get 10% off on my next order at their site within the next 30 days!

I already have numerous books that they publish and have reviewed several and highly recommend getting their newsletter. I did grab their fall/winter 2006 catalog while I was there.

Oxy Health - they gave out complimentary DVD video on portable mild hyperbarics. There was also a chamber on display there.

New Leash - they had a special dog in a cage there. Their services are to train rescue dogs to become assistance companions and therapy dogs. Their colorful brochure listed another site, nutsformutts.com to support New Leash on Life at a Nuts for Mutts fundraiser.

Stages Learning Materials - They had flash cards, bingo game series and more at their table. I picked up a brochure. The bingo cards start at $9.99.

Creative Therapy Store - They had a selection of books here. The one that I noticed and checked out is called Tasks Galore. This is a book series. I am interested in the yellow book that sells for $54.50 and hope to get that soon to work with my son Matthew. I never would have known about them if I had not picked up the book and looked through it more extensively.

Sensaria - These are natural body care products. I received a few samples of the mango body lotion and will be ordering some products from there in the near future. They sell body lotions, hand and foot care items, aromatherapy and items for men.

Soft Touch - They sell products to reach the learner inside. You will find items for speech and language, occupational therapy and assistive technology.

PRC - They have communication devices. I was able to gain insight into the springboard and learned that the Los Angeles Unified School Disrtrict (LAUSD) has these devices available through the AAC dept. I am going to pursue this through an assessment for my son Matthew. They also sell Pathfinder Plus and Vantage Plus.


Educational Autism Tips for Families 71 page resourceful ebook for families entering the school system with a recent autism diagnosis. Find out what issues take place over the course of a school day and meet these challenges head on.