Gumm Consulting, Assessment, and Advocacy Services

08/09/2026

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Illinois has become the first state in the country to create a new pathway allowing specially trained speech-language pathologists to diagnose autism in certain young children.

The change is aimed at children under 3 in Illinois’ Early Intervention Program, where families can face months or even years waiting for an autism evaluation. Under the new law, qualified SLPs with specific autism diagnostic training will be able to provide evaluations alongside the existing medical pathway.

The idea grew from Northwestern University’s “Reduce the Wait” research, which looked at how children could receive answers and support earlier.

For families sitting on long waitlists, another qualified route to diagnosis could mean getting support much sooner.

The law was signed July 10 and is expected to take effect January 1, 2028, following an implementation period.

📰 : Illinois General Assembly, Northwestern University

07/22/2026

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Wrigley Field has become the first Major League Baseball stadium to earn Certified Autism Center status through the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES). The designation recognizes the Cubs' efforts to create a more welcoming and accessible experience for autistic and sensory-sensitive fans.

As part of the certification, most guest-facing staff completed specialized training on autism awareness, communication, and sensory needs. Wrigley also offers a dedicated sensory room behind home plate on the main concourse, providing a quiet space with calming features for guests who need a break from the game.

Fans can also borrow free sensory bags from Fan Services or the Budweiser Bleachers. These include noise-canceling headphones, fidget items, and communication cards to help make the ballpark experience more comfortable.

The certification builds on Wrigley's existing accessibility services, reinforcing the Cubs' commitment to making games more inclusive for all guests.

07/19/2026

07/19/2026

Check out SofiasScents and support Autism awareness

07/07/2026

"What's the difference between services and supports in special education?"

In special education, "services" and "supports" are terms that are often used interchangeably, but they have distinct meanings:

Supports refer to changes in how and what students learn to help them succeed in school. This can include accommodations, modifications, and specialized instruction to help students make progress or stay on the same level as their peers. Examples include extra time for tests, breaks throughout the day, small group work, and adapted materials like audiobooks.

Services are specific types of help in areas such as speech or motor skills, often called related or direct services. These services provide the extra help kids need to benefit from general or special education. Examples include speech-language therapy, occupational therapy, counseling, and assistive technology.

Both supports and services can be provided through Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), 504 plans, and response to intervention (RTI) strategies.

Not sure if your child needs supports, services, or both? Book a free 15-min consult: www.gummcaas.com

Gumm Consulting, Assessment, and Advocacy Services (GCAAS) provide a wide range of services aimed at enhancing educational, social, emotional, and vocational, experiences for children, adolescents, adults, and families. GCAAS specializes in offering consultation, assessment, and advocacy services

06/29/2026

Tired of guessing?

If you’re in Illinois and wondering:
“Does my child need testing?”
“Is this 504 plan enough?”
“Can I get work accommodations?”

Stop spinning your wheels. Start with clarity.

GCAAS offers free 15-min consults to point you in the right direction. www.gcaas.com

06/23/2026

How does an advocate help your child get services?

I’m not there to fight. I’m there to translate.

Schools speak data + policy. Parents speak their child.

I help you:
✓ Prep for meetings so you’re not blindsided
✓ Decode evaluation reports
✓ Make sure goals are measurable, not vague

Result: services that actually fit your child.
Send me a message, visit my website. GCAAS is here to help!
www.gummcaas.com

Gumm Consulting, Assessment, and Advocacy Services (GCAAS) provide a wide range of services aimed at enhancing educational, social, emotional, and vocational, experiences for children, adolescents, adults, and families. GCAAS specializes in offering consultation, assessment, and advocacy services

06/19/2026

Heading off to college this fall? 🎓 Don't leave your support system behind!
Many families don't realize that the transition to higher education often requires a new approach to securing accommodations. From extended testing time to note-taking assistance, we specialize in helping college-bound students navigate the disability services office to ensure they have the tools they need to thrive on campus.
It’s never too early to start the conversation. Visit us at www.gummcaas.com to see how we can help you bridge the gap between high school and higher ed. 💙 "

Gumm Consulting, Assessment, and Advocacy Services (GCAAS) provide a wide range of services aimed at enhancing educational, social, emotional, and vocational, experiences for children, adolescents, adults, and families. GCAAS specializes in offering consultation, assessment, and advocacy services

06/13/2026

Ever wonder what an educational assessment actually tells you? 🔍
At Gumm Consulting, Assessment, and Advocacy Services, we believe that understanding how your child learns is the first step toward their success. An assessment isn't just a set of scores—it's a roadmap. It identifies strengths to build upon and specific areas where support is needed, providing the data necessary to secure the right accommodations.
Whether you're preparing for an IEP meeting or looking ahead to college transitions, a professional assessment can provide the clarity you need.
Ready to find your student's roadmap? Visit us at www.gummcaas.com to learn more about our assessment services. We’re here to help you navigate the journey! 💙
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Gumm Consulting, Assessment, and Advocacy Services (GCAAS) provide a wide range of services aimed at enhancing educational, social, emotional, and vocational, experiences for children, adolescents, adults, and families. GCAAS specializes in offering consultation, assessment, and advocacy services

06/06/2026

Summer is finally here! ☀️ While we all love a break from the school routine, keeping a little 'fun learning' in the mix can make the transition back in the fall much smoother.
Here are three fun tips for parents and students this summer:
1. The 'Grocery Store' Math Challenge: Turn a weekly errand into a game! Have your child help estimate the total cost of items or calculate discounts. It’s a great way to practice real-world math skills. 🛒
2. Nature Journaling: Grab a notebook and head to a local park. Encourage your child to draw or write about the plants and animals they see. This builds observation and writing skills in a stress-free way. 🌿
3. Family Book Club: Pick a book to read together and have a 'mini-meeting' over ice cream to talk about your favorite parts. 🍦
At Gumm Consulting, Assessment, and Advocacy Services, we believe that learning happens everywhere. We hope you have a wonderful, restful, and fun-filled summer!
Visit us at www.gummcaas.com for more tips on supporting your student year-round.

Gumm Consulting, Assessment, and Advocacy Services (GCAAS) provide a wide range of services aimed at enhancing educational, social, emotional, and vocational, experiences for children, adolescents, adults, and families. GCAAS specializes in offering consultation, assessment, and advocacy services