Autism awareness continues to increase locally

For families with an autistic son or daughter, learning about autism and the opportunities to help their child is an ongoing effort. Thankfully, this area has rallied around the issue and therapies and social development opportunities have emerged.

The Southeast Missourian ran a story on Wednesday about autism. April was Autism Awareness Month. In the story by reporter Samantha Rinehart, the Shrimplin family talked about what they have learned since their son Alex was diagnosed as being on the autism spectrum.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, autism prevalence is as high as one in 68 children. The good news: There are local options to help.

The Shrimplins have learned much from the Son-Rise program through the Autism Treatment Center of America, and Carmen Shrimplin attended an autism training opportunity in Massachusetts. Through these efforts, they been able to connect their son with students at Southeast Missouri State University -- many are interested in pursuing a career helping those with autism. Activities such as playing music have been beneficial to Alex's social skills.

Southeast developed autism training in which students can earn certification. The university's Autism Center for Diagnosis and Treatment provides evaluations, assessments, therapies and interventions.

The Tailor Institutes, founded by the late Dr. David Crowe, has helped those with autism develop their talents. Crowe took on the issue when his son Taylor was diagnosed with autism as a child. This was at a time when few knew much about autism.

Crowe's vision helped change that. Taylor, a talented young man who is a regular contributor of Opinion cartoons for the Southeast Missourian, did the illustration for the recent story on autism.

Parents want the best for their children, and we thank those whose efforts have brought attention to autism.