Autism Center at OCALI

Looking for hands‑on play in Southeast Ohio?
Check out AHA! in Lancaster, Hocking Hills Children’s Museum in Logan, and Ohio Valley Museum of Discovery in Athens. Children's musuems are a great spot for imaginative play, creativity, and hands‑on sensory exploration during the summer when school is out and you want to cool down inside!
https://www.aha4kids.org/
https://hhchildrensmuseum.org/
https://www.ovmod.org/

Autism Internet Modules (AIM)
Looking for flexible, evidence-based resources on autism? AIM offers self-paced learning designed for educators, professionals, and families. Build your knowledge, strengthen your practice, and access strategies you can use right away.
Start exploring: https://autisminternetmodules.org/

📚Real by Carol Cujec
The book Real shares the story of Charity, a non-speaking autistic teen with a brillant mind and voice that is often overlooked. As she navigates a new school, readers are reminded that every student deserves to be seen, heard, and included.
Check out more children's books on autism at https://ocali.org/Books-for-6th-12th-Grade/Family-Focus-6-12

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Graphic organizers can be a simple way to support understanding and organization for learners with autism. By visually breaking down information, they can help with communication, routines, and problem-solving.
Explore ready-to-use ideas and examples today in our Grab and Go Resource Gallery of Interventions
🔗 https://ocali.org/resource_gallery_of_interventions/graphic-organizers

We hope you have a safe and meaningful Memorial Day as you spend time reflecting or connecting with loved ones. OCALI offices will be closed for the holiday, and we will resume normal hours on Tuesday, May 26th.

Toledo Zoo and Aquarium
Creating a more inclusive experience for all visitors through thoughtful accessibility supports such as, sensory bags, clear sensory signage, and communication accommodations to help guests navigate the zoo with greater comfort and confidence.
It’s a great option for families looking for a more supportive and enjoyable outing together. 🐾
https://www.toledozoo.org/accessibility

📢 New 10-Minute Take!
Introducing Prompting: Introduction to Prompting, the newest addition to OCALI’s Autism Center 10-Minute Takes.
Build your understanding of prompting and explore strategies you can use in just minutes. Start learning today and apply it with your learners right away!
🔗 Check it out: https://ocali.org/autism-center-10-minute-takes

🚂 A Is for All Aboard!” by Paula Kluth
Looking for a fun, engaging way to build early literacy? A Is for “All Aboard!” is a unique alphabet book designed with children with autism in mind and perfect for any young train enthusiast! This one-of-a-kind book taps into children’s interests to make learning meaningful and joyful.
https://ocali.org/Books-for-PreK-5th-Grade

Want clear, simple visuals to support problem‑solving and independence?
What to Do Cards use visual prompts to help individuals understand expectations and respond appropriately in everyday situations. Use them at home, in the community, or at school. Visit the Grab‑n‑Go Resource Gallery of Interventions to explore examples and blank templates.
https://ocali.org/resource_gallery_of_interventions/What-to-Do-Cards

🔍 Screening Across the Lifespan for Autism Spectrum Disorders
Learn how autism screening looks across different ages and developmental stages. Highlights include key screening considerations, tools, and practices to support early identification and informed decision‑making across the lifespan.
🔗 https://autisminternetmodules.org/m/527

Looking for ways to explore the outdoors that are welcoming and accessible for the whole family? The Ohio Department of Natural Resources offers an Accessible Trails Guide to help you discover paths designed with inclusion in mind. From paved paths to sensory-friendly spaces, these trails make it fun for the whole family to enjoy nature together. 🌳
https://dam.assets.ohio.gov/image/upload/odnr/trails/Ohio_DNR_Accessible_Trails_Guide-w.pdf