Autism Resources
VIDEO AND PRINT RESOURCES
In 2010 and 2011, the School of Theology and Ministry and the Archdiocese of Boston Office of Religious Education hosted the Pyne Memorial Presentations, two all-day workshops on the topic of faith formation for persons with autism. Both presentations were generously supported by the Pyne Endowment Trust in memory of Professor Margaret E. Pyne, a lifelong advocate for persons with disabilities.
Susan Swanson, a speech/language pathologist with 27 years’ experience working with children with autism, and a faculty member in the Department of Psychiatry, University of Massachusetts Medical School, presented both workshops. Below are video and print resources collected from those two workshops, recommended by Susan Swanson.
Autism, Part 1:
Forming Faith through a Community of Inclusion
presented February 26, 2010
Autism, Part 2: Forming Faith within an Expansive Community
presented February 11, 2011
Print Resources:
Communicative Functions/Means Grid
Joint Activity Routines, Rituals, and Spiritual Practices
Parent/Caregiver Questionnaire
Faith Formation Parent Interview
Expressing and Understanding Emotions
Catechetical Education Priorities
Worksheet for Creating Meaningful Faith Formation Opportunities
Total Catechesis/Religious Education: A Vision for Now and Always
Additional Resources:
"Pastoral Statement of U.S. Bishops on People with Disabilities"
“Guidelines for the Celebration of the Sacraments for persons with Disabilities, National Conference of Catholic Bishops”
“Dimensions of Faith and Congregational Ministries with Person with Developmental Disabilities and Their Families”
“People First Language”
Helpful Websites and Resources
Recommended Reading