The Monthly Melody September 2014

A monthly magazine dedicated to autism awareness, acceptance and awesomeness‌

August2014 2014 September

Party Planning Tips Autism Friendly Cruises If I Need Help - A QR code ID product Justin Timberlake sings Happy Birthday and More... *Interview with Dr. Hintz of the Cadenza Center Dr. Hintz talks about the importance of music and art therapy

*Car Wash for Awareness- Pictures and results *Medical Marijuana and Autism- Opinions and results from our online poll

*Paul Wilson & Friends - The lyrics and meaning of "The Piece My Puzzle Was Missing"‌And More!

September 2014 Issue Editor: Chris Wilson Proofreader and Content Editor: Justin Wilson, Jr. Front Cover: Cody M. (photo taken by Jenifer B.) Subscribe for FREE today! www.TheMonthlyMelody.com/subscibe ___________________________________________________________________________________________ The Monthly Melody is a Publication of We Rock for Autism, Inc. a Nonprofit Organization.

PO BOX 25884, Pembroke Pines, FL 33024 – support@werockforautism.org www.themonthlymelody.com – www.werockforautism.org ___________________________________________________________________________________________ The Monthly Melody and We Rock for Autism, Inc. does not endorse the views, products, or services contained herein. We are not responsible for omissions or errors.

The Monthly Melody and We Rock for Autism, Inc. are not responsible for articles submitted to us without the final approval of the organization’s President.

All articles and Advertisements are subject to final approval by our Board. We reserve the right to edit any article sent to us.

Letters to The Editor should be sent to support@werockforautism.org We do not publish open letters or third-party letters.

Letters for publication must include the writer’s address and phone numbers.

We cannot return or acknowledge unpublished letters. Writers of those letters selected for publication will be notified prior to press date.

Letters may be shortened for space requirements. .

Copyright © 2014 We Rock for Autism, Inc. All rights reserved. Content contained in this publication may be reproduced for onetime personal use. However, anyone wishing to reproduce and distribute any content from within this publication for purposes other than personal use must request this intention in writing directly to the publisher. Failure to do so will be in violation of the copyright held by this publication.

STATEMENT OF POLICY AND DISCLAIMER The views expressed in any articles or advertisements included in this publication are not necessarily those of The Monthly Melody or the publishers We Rock for Autism, Inc. The Monthly Melody, We Rock for Autism, Inc. and the publishers do not promote or recommend any specific therapy, treatment, institution or professional viewpoint. Please check with a doctor when changing any diet or major nutritional change.

CAR WASH FOR AWARENNESS We Rock for Autism sponsored our first Car Wash for Awareness event on July 20th, 2014 in Hollywood, FL. The Exxon Gas Station on the corner of Sheridan Street & 64th Avenue donated the site and use of water for the event. Cars and trucks were washed for a donation, and customers had the option to donate what they could. Donations ranged from $5 to $20 and the car wash raised almost $200.

Chris Wilson, President of We Rock for Autism, arranged the event and his family and friends volunteered to help hold signs to lure in traffic as well as wash cars. Teresa Wilson, Chris’ wife, took charge of the washing to ensure every car was washed and dried properly. Samantha, Casey, Mackenzie and Olivia, their four children helped out by washing, drying and holding signs (they also hand designed the signs used to promote the Car Wash). Justin Wilson was there brining in traffic and helping out with washing and drying too! We even got our good friend Janice to help out, not only washing the cars, but brining in her and her families vehicles for washes.

All weather vinyl banners were provided courtesy of Maniacs Hobby Complex of Plantation, FL for We Rock for Autism to use at their events and the car wash is where they made their debut.

We really appreciate everyone who came out to show their support. Thank you all!

-We Rock for Autism www.WeRockforAutism.org

ins of the Month!

Pinterest.com/WeRockforAutism

We Rock for Autism is dedicated to promoting the awareness and acceptance of autism. Through various events and fundraisers we strive to raise funds to help children with autism attend music and art therapy session. If you would like to learn more about We Rock for Autism or keep up with upcoming events and the latest news, check out our website at www.WeRockforAutism.org or connect with us on our social media pages.

Paul Wilson & Friends Paul Wilson & Friends is a local South Florida “county/rock/blues” band and features legendary singer / songwriter, Paul Wilson. Paul Wilson & Friends were named “Best Country Band” by New Times Magazine in 2013 and released their debut CD “Trains & Fools” that very same year.

If you think that last name looks familiar, you are right. Paul is the father of the founder and president of We Rock for Autism, Chris Wilson. In fact, Chris is in the band with his Dad. They play various acoustic shows around town and often play full electric sets as The Wilson Family Band, which included includes Chris’ nephew, Justin Wilson, Jr. on the drums.

Early 2014, Chris wanted to write a song that embraced the love and strength that a parent of a child with autism possesses. Inspired by his cousin and VP of We Rock for Autism, Jenifer, he wrote the words to “The Piece My Puzzle Was Missing”. It only took Paul one night of looking at those words to write the perfect piece of music to sing them to. Then, in the studio they went and recorded it.

“I wrote this song with my Dad,” said Chris Wilson, President, We Rock for Autism. “This is the first song that we have written together and it is based on the many emotions and love for a child with autism. The words I wrote were inspired by many things and many people, including my cousin Jenifer and my good friend, Marc.”

The band will be planning some shows and events to promote We Rock for Autism soon. In the meantime, keep an eye out on their Facebook page to keep up with upcoming shows and releases. You can go LIKE their page at www.facebook.com/PaulWilsonSongwriter.

The Piece My Puzzle Was Missing can be heard and downloaded from their Sound Click page: CLICK HERE

And you can check out a little picture montage set to the song on You Tube: CLICK HERE

The Piece My Puzzle Was Missing Words and music by Chris and Paul Wilson Through the smile in your eyes, I see the perfection in your heart.

Since the first day I held you, I knew we had the perfect start.

Each of us is different, And sometimes we feel alone.

Even if you don’t always express it, I know you are filled with love and hope.

-ChorusYou're the piece my puzzle was missing, Unique in all the right ways.

You rock to the beat of the world's best drummers, I hear the words you can’t say.

You are the piece my puzzle was missing…

Perfect in every way.

Your empathy's not obvious, But we both know it’s there.

When strangers sees you smile, They just can’t help but join you ear to ear.

You make this life a better one, With all the treasures that you hold, Deep inside your heart and mind.

I wish we could all be so bold.

-Chorus-BridgeI know you world is full of color and sound, And you dance to a song of your own.

Thank you for sharing your innocence and grace, And making my puzzle whole.

-ChorusYou're the piece my puzzle was missing...

And you have the sweetest heart, I've ever known.

MEDICAL MARIJUANA and AUTISM Debate sparks strong opinions, strong language and a lot of supportive votes…

We Rock for Autism recently conducted an informal poll on Facebook to see what thegeneral opinion in the autism community is on theuse of medical marijuana. Much to our surprise,an overwhelming amount of the responses were in favor of the use. The mostconsistent thoughts were, “if it works, why wouldyou not use it” and “anything to help my child.”

All though, there were plenty of folks on the other side of the fight, concerned with adverse affects and just simply against providing their child with something that has been deemed “harmful” and “illegal” for so many years. There was also one individual that was on the fence, and could not make a positive stand on either sideof the debate.

In total, we received 74 votes/comments on our Facebook page. Sixty (60) of the comments were in favor of using medical marijuana to help their child with autism if it worked, Fourteen (14) of the comments were opposed to the use and one (1) voter said if it helped, yes, but had a major concern with the possibility of abusing the drug.

The poll was inspired by an article about an 11 year old Oregon child, named Alex that, with the approval of his doctor, is currently using medical marijuana to help reduce his fits of rage. The child also has tuberous sclerosis, a rare genetic disorder that affects about 50,000 people in the U.S. and contributes to his selfdestructive behavior. According to the article, “The disorder causes unregulated growth of non-malignant tissue in organs. In Alex's case, his neurologist said growths in Alex's brain have led to seizures and autism.”

Alex is one of only 58 minors that is actually protected by the Oregon Medical Marijuana Act; and the use was approved to help him with his seizures. Autism is not a qualifying medical condition alone, but his parents and doctors say they have seen a major improvement in Alex’s behavior since starting treatment.

We Rock for Autism does not approve or condone the use of marijuana, and believes the each family needs to work with a medical doctor to make the decisions they feel are the best for their child. More studies will be done, and progresswill be tracked over the next several years, and the debate of using medical marijuana will continue.

Article written by: Chris Wilson Contact: chris@werockforautism.org

Are you using Social Media to learn and connect with others?

Social Media has become one of the most popular and common ways for us to communicate. In the world of computers, laptops, tablets and smart phones, staying in touch with family and friends is easier and more convenient than ever before.

In addition to keeping up with family and friends, social media outlets have become a saving grace formany families that are becoming familiar with autism. As 1 in 68 children are now being diagnosed with autism, the need for information, resources and support has been in more demand than ever before. Many parents have reached out to pages and posts dedicated to autism, autism support, advice, stories and varied outlooks.

Connecting with other parents or families that maybe going through similar struggles can really help you understand that you are not alone, in getting through those, sometimes difficult, days. A funny story, post, picture or quote cansure put a smile on your face and make thosedifficult days a little brighter.

The great thing about the autism based social media community is you only have to be involved as much as you are comfortable with. Feel free to engage in posts or tweets, LIKE or FAVORITE ones you enjoy, SHARE or RETWEET ones that really stand out to you, COMMENT or REPLY to become a part of the conversation, or just read and watch.

Whatever role you choose to take, is up to you,but give it a shot. Knowing that you are not alonecan make the difference between wanting to cry yourself to sleep and reaching out for the support and understanding of others, who can give advise or simply make you smile. ď Š

South Florida Non-Profit Partners with 80’s in the Park Event to Raise Money to Assist with Music Therapy Sessions for Children with Autism Hollywood, FL – We Rock for Autism, a South Florida based non-profit organization, has teamed up with the 80’s in the Park event of Melbourne, FL to promote autism awareness and acceptance and raise funds to assist children with autism receive music and art therapy sessions.

Autism now affects 1 in 68 children. Although there are many theories on what causes the onset of autism, there is still no absolute answer, and, with all the advancements in diagnosis and treatment, there is still no cure. Research has shown that a vast amount of children with autism respond very well to music therapy when used in conjunction with a comprehensive treatment program. Music therapy is often used to address non-musical goals and often mirror speech, occupational, and behavior therapists.

We Rock for Autism was founded to assist families in allowing their children, who have been diagnosed with autism, receive music therapy sessions that they would otherwise not be able to afford on their own. “We are honored to have the support of 80’s in the Park,” said Chris Wilson, President, We Rock for Autism. “To embrace the music theme of our foundation and promote our cause at such an iconic event has us all thrilled.

The promoters of the event could not be more supportive of our efforts and we hope to see everyone who attends stop by our booth and say hello.”

The popular 80’s in the Park event, which takes place in Melbourne, FL on September 26th, 27th, and 28th of 2014, learned of the goals and mission of We Rock for Autism and immediately offered their assistance. The promoters of the event donated a sponsorship package to We Rock for Autism, which includes vendor space at the event, to allow them to promote their cause, as well as several tickets to the event to ensure the board members and their families would be able to attend and enjoy a weekend full of EVERYTHING 80’s…including some of the most popular rock bands, movies, toys, games and more from that awesome decade.

We Rock for Autism is hoping to work with some of the scheduled bands to receive donated signed merchandise to sell at the event and possibly even a few auction items. Tickets purchased for the event, using the We Rock for Autism link will also generate funds for the foundation, as the promoters of the 80’s in the Park event have decided to donate a portion of all We Rock for Autism ticket sales back to the foundation. To get tickets to the event, please visit: http://www.showclix.com/event/3793614/tag/RockAutism

This is Julian

he is 8 and Justin Timberlake sang Happy Birthday to him....

What Happens When Justin Timberlake and 25,000 Fans Sing Happy Birthday to A Boy With Autism?

Having anticipated this event all summer, Julian put on his hat and tie.(because he didn’t have a suit).

A story of music, inspiration and a bow tie.

Frankly though, it would have been easier to get him Legos. Having just celebrated turning 40 a couple weeks ago, and having just recovered from the back pain brought on by my inability to sit still at the Arcade Fire concert we went to for my birthday, it would have been easier. And I’m sure a good percentage of my Facebook feed probably thought he was too young or that it might be inappropriate to bring such a young child to mostly grown-up event. Especially a child with autism.

One that potentially might disrupt the concert-goers around him and make his mama worry the way mamas always do.

Julian is 8 years old and loves music, especially Justin Timberlake. So, for his birthday he wanted to see Justin live in concert. What happened next was amazing.

We Rock for Autism and The Monthly Melody heard about this story and reached out to Julian’s Mom, Marika and a connection was made.

“I would love for it to be shared in your online magazine and I love the concept behind your organization- I believe music is the medium for making connections and for my son, it has made all the difference,” said Marika, when asked about her story being included in The Monthly Melody. “I am THRILLED that you connected and want to share this. It brought me so much hope, I know it will for others too.”

So, in her own words, right from her personal website, www.bestillandstillmoving.com here is what happened…

August 12, 2014 It was the great Leonard Bernstein who said, “Music can name the unnameable and communicate the unknowable,” Which might explain why I haven’t been able to put into words what happened last night when my husband and I took our son, Julianto see Justin Timberlake and The Tennessee Kids for his 8th birthday.

Then, true to his lyrics, Justin Timberlake proceeded to show us a few things. Namely, about love.

It was my son’s only gift request this year. Well, that and Benny Spaceship Spaceship from the Lego Movie. And while everyone knows I love Legos above all toys, Justin Timberlake was decidedly more appealing.

You know the way we do. The way the worry threatens to take over when you look around and don’t see any children, let alone a child “like yours”. Things started to unravel quickly in my mind as I looked around, giving way to my worries about Julian’s obsessions, his volume, his repetitiveness, his clumsiness, if he would spill someone’s drink and if they would be unkind to him…. basically all the things a parent worries about when they have a child that is easily misunderstood.

Even as his parents, my husband and I have taken a long while to understand. We didn’t get it, not until last year anyway, when we discovered that Julian had high functioning autism. It’s why he passed the screenings despite our suspicions and denial that something wasn’t quite right. It’s why it took us so long to acknowledge and put our finger on what was wrong. This boy that seemed academically so advanced and emotionally so far behind. This boy that still bites his fingers when he gets excited and has emotional outbursts like he’s going on 5, not 8.

This boy who wanted nothing but the JT 20/20 Experience for his birthday.

My worry was if his Dad and I were still figuring him out, how were all these people around us going to understand him or the fact that he might say the same things over and over all night or knock over their beer, or the fact that he could listen toSexyback 6000 times and never get sick of it? And trust me when I tell you this summer I learned that is, in fact, entirely possible.

We were there early and I looked around wondering who would be sitting around us, so when this group of gorgeous looking girls came and sat next to us, I cringed. They were dressed to the nines. They looked amazing in that girl’s night out way reminiscent of my college days. I knew they came to get their JT on and I wanted everyone to have the good time they came to have.

My husband, on the other hand, hoisted our giant 8 year old as high as he could get him, not thinking he might disrupt anyone while I worried the people behind us wouldn’t be able to see. And all the while Julian in perfect autistic fashion was repeating himself over and over, knocking into the chairs and dancing and singing and yelling, "It's my birthday!!

This is my present! This is my present! I LOVE YOU JT!!"

Now I have found that others don’t always find all the things you find beautiful about your child to be so beautiful but I think that’s where Leonard Bernstein comes in. Everyone around us saw it.

Everyone felt it but none of us could name it.

And at the perfect quiet moment, the group in front of us started yelling to get Justin’s attention, because despite his loud volume, Julian’s voice was not carrying. Only repeating. And then before we knew what was happening, the group in front of us that had turned out to be so incredibly kind all night to our birthday boy, and these gorgeous girls who I was convinced would be totally annoyed by Julian, had captured Justin’s attention. And then it happened. Justin Timberlake was singing Happy Birthday. They all were.

The awesome grandmother of 3 sitting in front of us.

The model-esque girls sitting to our right.

The people sitting to our left that offered us the video that they captured of the whole thing.

They were all singing.

All 25,000 of them.

And I swear the light in his eyes when this world of people began to sing was so bright it must have been what got my eyes so unexpectedly teary, you know the way your eyes water when you look at the sun? All my mama worries had been for naught.

Everyone was embracing our boy in the way I was afraid they wouldn’t. Here we stood while thousands of people lifted him in song to celebrate the day he came into the world 8 years ago. That day that they lay his tiny warm wet body on my still heaving, labor-heavy chest. That day my life changed forever the way it does when a child touches you with their magic, the way they bring you to life with the special kind of music that only a newborn baby makes. The way it makes you want to show them the world and to be able let them hold it in their hands, even if just for one moment, the way we hold them in ours.

Which brings us full circle to why we were even there in the first place.

Julian’s deep connection to music has been something we cultivated even while he was still in the womb long before we knew he would later struggle with autism. Thinking back, Justin Timberlake was my workout music of choice on the treadmill with my big pregnant belly while Julian was still in there percolating. Yes, I even occasionally put headphones on my belly for a good dose of Mozart or Bach and sometimes a little Radiohead. Julian was birthed to his aunt singing Strauss in the delivery room in only the way a lyric soprano can do and he rocked out in the car like he was Lars Ulrich the first time he heard Enter Sandman by Metallica. Our love of music vicariously fueled his, so it wasn’t surprising when he said he wanted to play the drums when he was 3. And for this boy who has a lot of loose ends, music has been what has made him feel safe to run without worrying about tripping on his laces. It has been the connection that has held his life together securely and I know this because this year he didn’t want a table full of presents to unwrap. He wanted the gift of music.

It has held him. It has sung him to sleep and it has rocked his little world. It has jolted him awake.

Music has shown him his place in the world and the power of music to change it all. It has been the solvent that dissolves walls. And haven’t we all felt the power of that? Like Bernstein describes and like an autistic child who doesn’t always know how to communicate something-- we just didn’t know what it was or just how to say it.

Last night the world saw Julian, and for the first time, I think Julian saw himself in the world.

Want to talk about hope? Oh, it was alive, it was so alive, and you could feel it breathing. It’s why I found my hands shaking in the middle of the most breathtaking rendition of Happy Birthday I’ve ever been witness to. It’s why despite watching that video 300 times, his dad and I can’t do it without blubbering like babies. Call it the Leonard Bernstein effect (I like the physics ring of that) call it the power of music, call it what you will ...

back. Thank you to the thousand people who stopped to wish Julian a personal happy birthday on the way out. It took us over an hour just to get outside the arena whilst Julian was high-fiving and fist-bumping everyone that stopped him. Thank you for showing me I was wrong about what the world would do when they saw my son. Thank you for seeing him and not just his disability. Most probably didn’t even know he had one. They were too busy singing along with Justin. They were all too busy showing me a lot about human nature, and a few things about love.

-Markia D.

watch the video HERE: http://youtu.be/rZEX3F8CWhs So, there you have it! #HappyBirthdayJulian - From The Monthly Melody and We Rock for Autism!

I call it the power of love set to a soundtrack.

And I quite think Leonard Bernstein would like that and that’s where he comes back in. Still unable to capture what happened last night at that concert, I call to mind some of his otherwise words. When I try again to put my finger on what happened, it still seems impossible to pinpoint and I realize this is the mystery that he was talking about when he said, “The key to the mystery of a great artist is that for reasons unknown, he will give away his energies and his life just to make sure that one note follows another... and leaves us with the feeling that something is right in the world. “ That was it! That was exactly what Justin Timberlake had done. He had made us all artists in that moment. The feeling he had left us with was what Leonard was talking about and suddenly I understood why all felt right with the world. All those wrongs I had added up in my head disappeared like smoke when I saw the potential that even one little song had to make a whole world sing.

So thank you Justin Timberlake for putting those notes one in front of the other. And thank you ‘Sexy Ladies’ that were sitting all around us. Thank you Tennessee Kids and the people all the way in the

We Rock for Autism assists children with autism receive; music and art therapy session, sessions, instruments, music players and communication devices. If you would like to learn more or if you would like to donate to We Rock for Autism, please visit www.WeRockforAutism.org/donate-today or

TRAVEL

ROYAL CARIBBEAN AUTISM FRIENDLY CRUISE LINE Planning a vacation can feel like more trouble than it’s worth sometimes, but when you are planning a vacation that includes a child on the spectrum, in can be near impossible.

In this issue of The Monthly Melody, our travel section focuses on the high seas. That’s right, we are talking about taking a cruise. If you are ready to pack your bags full of sunblock and bathing suits then we have just the right cruise line for you.

Royal Caribbean International is the first ever to be certified as an Autism Friendly Cruise Line by Autism on the Seas™ and is now offering a variety of autism friendly activities and events.

Sensory family films are presented in a low-lit and low volume environment and encourage guests to freely talk and walk around during the film. These films will be offered on the autism group cruises and cruises with at least five children with autism onboard.

They also have an autism friendly toy lending program, where they will provide a tote bag of autism friendly toys or toys can be chosen by the parents. Some of the toys available are: non-toxic crayons, markers, water colors, building blocks, dominoes, and picture books.

The cruise line is also offering written or visual guides describing various social interactions, situations, behaviors, skills or concepts often referred to as Social Stories. Royal Caribbean offers a Cruising Social Story about cruising to help families with autism prepare for their cruise vacation.

There are a variety of activities that will accommodate children of all abilities, and you should consult with the staff to ensure the activities chosen are appropriate or need modification for their child.

Special dietary accommodations including gluten-free and dairy-free options are available. The staff of each of these cruises is certified and trained in autism awareness.

So, if you think you are ready to hit the open waters, this may be a viable option for your family. Each family should evaluate their specific current needs and work with a staff member of Royal Caribbean to be certain that a cruise is suitable for your family.

Good Luck and Happy Cruising!

For more info, visit: www.royalcarribean.com

LETTHE PARTY

PLANNING

So, you have decided you are ready to take on the challenge of planning an “autism friendly” birthday party. We wish we could give you a step by step instruction manual to follow, but as you already know, nothing is as easy as following a manual when it comes to planning anything for our ASD children. But, we will do our best to give you some helpful hints and tips on the subject.

Let me start by stating the obvious. Every child is different. Therefore, the process of planning and hosting each party is going to differ greatly.

We are just hoping to offer a little bit of advice to help get you started…now that you have decided you are brave enough to take on the mission!

The first step in planning the party is to realize who the party is for. If you are truly throwing a party for your child and you want him or her to have the best time possible, then stay within the limitations and comfort zones that they are

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If your child does not like large crowds or new places, then his birthday party is not the time to see how he does with these variables.

If your child only likes or eats certain types of foods, then those are the foods that should be served at his party.

If your child does not do well with sugars, then substitute cake and treats with something he likes.

If your child does not do well with strangers, then only invite guests that he will be comfortable with.

If you are inviting guests they may not be familiar with autism, or your child’s specific triggers or accommodations, fully inform them BEFORE they arrive.

Bottom line is, the party should be for the guest of honor. Do not worry about what other people think, or what they might

Let The Party Planning Begin (cont.) want to eat or drink. If they are not willing or able to make a few sacrifices to ensure the birthday boy or girl has the best time possible, then don’t invite them. A birthday party should not revolve around who the parents want to hang out with or who the parents feel they need to invite to the party.

In fairness to your guests that may notbe familiar with your child, explain to themthe type of party you are planning. If theyare told, in advance, about anymodifications they need to make in items orpeople they might intend to bring, or giftideas, etc. then they can make theadjustments or choose not to come. Don’tbe offended if someone you invite choosesnot to attend. They may have valid reasonsand it is better for them to be honest andnot attend then take any chances of havinguncomfortable guests or a disaster of aparty (remember…the party is for your child, not you or your guests).

Gift giving can be another big adventure or challenge during the course of hosting a birthday party. Be sure to take into consideration your child’s reaction and comfort level with various degrees of attention as well as the type of gifts he may receive. If you do not take these factors into consideration, you can be faced with a meltdown or reactions and behavior issues that you have been trying to avoid. Again, every child is different, so you need to take the proper course of action that you feel is best suited for your child.

Some things to take into consideration for present time. 

Is your child comfortable being the center of attention? If not, then you may want to inform your guests that he will open his presents when

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everyone is gone. You can even offer to inform them of his reaction or gratitude in the form of a Thank You letter after the party.

Do wrapped gifts, wrapping paper, ribbon, bows or any other aspect of a wrapped gift bother your child? If so, let your guests know to bring a gift in a regular bag or just completely unwrapped (Unwrapped gifts can be placed in another room upon arrival to avoid the gifts becoming a distraction) Do certain types of toys bother your child (colors, sounds, shapes, characters, etc.)? Let your guests know in advance so they can spend their money on items the child will actually enjoy.

Provide your guests with a list of things your child likes, this will also help give them ideas on what to get them. Nobody want to bring your child a gift they won’t like, but if youdon’t tell them, they will never know.

So, these are just a few things we thought mighthelp. I am sure most of you would take thesefactors into consideration, but if any of thesetips helps then we did our job! To the parentsthat are new to the autism community, wehope this provides you with a starting point.

Again, this is not a list of instructions, and every child is different. But, if you always keep in mind, that the party is for them and not you, then you are on right track.

Good Luck and Happy Party Planning!

Have any tips you would like to share on planning or hosting a party or gathering? We would love to hear them. Please send them to: support@werockforautism.org and we will try and include them in our next party planning segment.

THE QR CODE iD and IF I NEED HELP The Idea, the Product and the Not for Profit What if, one day you went to pick your child up from school and another parent cameover and told you they had found your child that morning standing just within the unlockedentrance gate all by himself? Well, that is exactly what happened to Bruce and Erin Wilson, thecreators of QR Code iD and founders of If I Need Help. They know they were lucky, and that the outcome could have been much worse. Their son has moderate to severe autism, with poor verbal skills. “I was accustomed to worry about him academically, socially, behaviorally but to worry about his safety felt unsettling,” said Bruce, co-creator of QR Code iD. “I was not sure how I could protect him.”

This lead to Bruce and Erin launching the QR Code iD website in April of 2013. The concept came to them about a year earlier and they spent their time developing a product designed to give them and other parents some piece of mind. In September of 2013 they incorporated as anot for profit under the name If I Need Help.

To date, 3 success stories have been reported, and we are sure there are many more to come.

There are multiple different products that are available and once you are registered you can login and update the information in real time. The hope is that, if your child goes wandering and can’t communicate the necessary information, the QR code patch on his clothing will be scanned and the proper information will be relayed. Thus providing for a very happy reunion.

“I look forward to If I Need Help being used to reunite people who become lost from their families by their code being scanned or the emergency email being sent out. Also, with the new products, helping people who are unable to self-advocate during a critical situation due to asthma, allergies, diabetes, seizures or other debilitation will be as easy as scanning a QR Code,” says Erin Wilson, co-founder of If I Need Help.“When there is a production demand I look forward to hiring people who have special needs to do the order fulfillment and shipping.”

Please visit their website to learn more about this great service and all the different products available at www.qrcodeid.org

We asked some of our Facebook and Twitter friends to send over some selfies! The selfies are of a family member and their little ASD hero. We received some really great pictures of parents, grandparents and siblings smiling big for their Selfie for Awareness.

SEND US YOUR SELFIE! Snap a quick selfie of you and your hero and email it to support@werockforautism.org or post it on the We Rock for Autism Facebook, Twitter or Instagram page using #SelfiesforAwareness

A Look into Music Therapy.

Interview with Dr. Michelle Hintz of Cadenza Center for Psychotherapy and the Arts of Hollywood, FL

why Cadenza Center is one of the best centers around.

Chris: Dr. Hintz, thank you again for meeting with me and letting me peak into your world and your work. Cadenza Center for Psychotherapy and the Arts, in Hollywood, FL is an amazing center and provider of music therapy sessions, consultations, evaluations, and workshops. We Rock for Autism is extremely excited about our intent to help provide assistance to some local families so that their children will soon be able to benefit from your services and the many wonders of music therapy. Also, thank you for taking the time to answer these questions to help enlighten and inform our readers of your background and the importance of music and art therapy.

What is your background? And why did you choose the path of music therapy?

By Chris Wilson Music is a tool used by most of us on a daily basis. It can help with our mood, or give us that boost we need to get things done or walk that extra mile. Music is one of the most powerful resources we have, it has the power to bring us back in time or help us envision our future.

There is no doubt that music is powerful, so it only makes sense that music therapy is powerfulas well.

We had the pleasure of meeting with Dr. Michelle Hintz, of the South Florida based Cadenza Center for Psychotherapy and the Arts.

Not only did we have the amazing opportunity to tour the facility and meet some of the teachers and students, but we had a chance to really learn about Dr. Hintz’s background and

Dr. Hintz: Initially, I wanted to pursue a degree in medicine and was enrolled in a pre-med program. Yet, I always intended on keeping my hand in music somehow. That’s why I auditioned for the University of WIMilwaukee’s orchestra. As a violinist, overheard music therapy students talking about their clinical experiences and was immediately intrigued. I spoke to them after every rehearsal for the better part of a semester before speaking to the program’s professor. I switched my major in the next term and the rest is history. I found the training I got in music therapy to be much more fulfilling than the book-work I was doing in pre-med.I loved the field so much that I ultimately got both a Bachelors and Masters degree in music therapy.

“We are the makers of music and the dreamers of dreams” – Willy Wonka

Please tell us about Cadenza Center, and what it means to you?

Dr. Hintz: I have been a board-certified music therapist since 1990 and have always wanted to incorporate music into my work as a therapist. I knew how to use music in treating clients of all ages, but found it difficult for clients to access my services because it isn’t a regularly covered service by insurance. So after pursuing my doctorate in clinical psychology, I realized my dream to create a unique center that encompasses traditional therapies with the creative arts. The Cadenza Center fills a void in our community in serving adults, adolescents and children, is a comprehensive center with a multifaceted team of professionals.I chose the name “Cadenza” based upon its definition aselaborate flourish or showy solo passage thatmusicians play to share their talents and skills.

I wanted to create a place for everyone to have their moment to shine, to find their way of sharing their talents, and to give selfexpression to those who might otherwise not have that option. Cadenza Center’s objective is to help patients acquire improved behavioral and emotional functioning and meet personal goals, provides dynamic and integrative mental health services in South Broward.

How would you best describe music therapy, as provided to children with autism?

Dr. Hintz: Music therapists use a variety of active music interventions to provide opportunities to integrate emotional, physical, and cognitive experiences. For children who have autism and related conditions, music therapy often treats four main qualitative impairments: behavior, communication and symbolic play, socialization, and sensory issues. Goal-oriented music experiences may involve activities such as: singing, dancing, imitation and action songs, musical games, song writing, etc. Music therapy is, most importantly, an active process that engages

the client and therapist in a musical experience that only music knows where it will go. As a music therapist, music is my co-therapist – and, often a better one than I. What attributes do you feel are most important when deciding to bring in a music therapist?

Dr. Hintz: Music therapy can be a rich and rewarding part to a comprehensive treatment program. In fact, many parents seeking music therapy have been receiving other therapies for many years yet the progress has stalled for some reason. For some, meeting clinical goals can be slow and difficult to generalize.

However, music therapy uses music experiences to address non-musical goals andobjectives mirror that those of speech, occupational, and behavior therapists; still, the approach is vastly different.In addition to the socio-emotional and educational benefits, individuals with autism often make gains in generalization of previously learned skills, sensory integration and motor planning, selfregulation and executive functioning, and language and communication skills. Individuals are typically seen weekly either in an individual or group setting.

“Music therapists use a variety of active music interventions to provide opportunities to integrate emotional, physical, and cognitive experiences.”

What do you enjoy most about your work?

Dr. Hintz: I love working with families and seeing them find expression. I love the creative process and the unfolding of each client’s musical story. We create musical playlists, favorite activities, and our special improvisations that tie us together in a very special way.

What type of music do you listen to? Give us your top three genres…

Dr. Hintz: It is hard to pick. I love listening to Blues, Jazz, and alternative music. I also love singer-songwriters. And, my love of classical music always remains from my violin training.

feel and are more motivated to move, dance, and sing as the music moves them. However, teens also enjoy music therapy sessions, but often for the more insightful and abstract emotional experience.

What is your favorite quote?

Who are your top 5 favorite bands/ musicians of all time?

Dr. Hintz: “We are the makers of music and the dreamers of dreams” – Willy Wonka

Dr. Hintz: Being raised in the 80’s, I’m partial

And, is there anything you would like to let our readers know about you, Cadenza Center, music therapy, or any other general topics?

to that pop genre. Yet, lately I’m more interested in the obscure and alternative music of the rising stars. I’m also listening to Coldplay, Imagine Dragons, One Republic, John Mayer, and Joe Bonamassa.

What initial signs could a child display that may be signs of them doing well with music therapy?

Dr. Hintz: An individual, especially those affected with autism may benefit from music therapy if he/she:     

Easily learns words to songs, but has deficits in verbal communication; Is more animated and engaged when involved in music activities; Spends time humming, singing, or vocalizing to himself; Has limited joint attention skills and/or poor imitation; Has limited meaningful interaction with others.

In your opinion, what is the best age for a child to begin music therapy?

Dr. Hintz: There is no perfect age to begin music therapy. However, I find that younger children (those under 7) are much more receptive to the joys music brings. They are more open to expressing the emotions they

Dr. Hintz: Since we began this journey in 2000, the Cadenza Center has evolved and grown up so to speak. We are still expanding and improving our services to meet the needs of a very diverse population. We are hoping to continue to collaborate with others in the community to meet the needs of those who need the most support in finding their creative voice and getting their moment to shine. I can’t wait to see what we can do.

Cadenza Center for Psychotherapy and the Arts provides services in South Florida. Services can be provided at their conveniently located office in Hollywood, Florida or therapy and rehabilitation centers, hospitals and clinics, client’s home or schools.

For more information, please visit www.cadenzacenter.com Or call 954-925-3191

Run/Walk for Autism Events Set for Three NC Cities Events in the Triangle, Triad, and Western North Carolina will fund local programs for families affected by autism.

Raleigh – The Autism Society of North Carolina is gearing up for its three biggest fundraisers of the year to provide support for families affected by autism in the Triangle, Triad, and Western North Carolina.   

WNC Run/Walk for Autism: Sept. 13 at UNC-Asheville (www.wncrunwalkforautism.com) Greensboro Run/Walk for Autism: Sept. 27 at UNC-Greensboro (www.greensbororunwalkforautism.com) Triangle Run/Walk for Autism: Oct. 11 in downtown Raleigh (www.trianglerunwalkforautism.com)

In North Carolina, 1 in 58 children will be diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Proceeds from the Run/Walk for Autism events stay in North Carolina, funding local programs of the Autism Society of North Carolina (ASNC). ASNC isthe leading statewide resource organization providing support for families and promoting opportunities for the over 60,000 people in the state affected by ASD. Last year, more than 4,800 people participated in the three fall Run/Walk for Autism events, raising more than $421,000 for North Carolina residents affected by autism.

The events also give families a chance to celebrate autism awareness and acceptance with their communities during aday of fun with amusements for children, music, and refreshments. Vendor space at each event showcases local businesses, service providers, support resources, and sponsors.

For more information about the Run/Walk for Autism events, including how businesses can become sponsors and individuals can volunteer, please contact Heather Hargrave, Associate Director of Development, at hhargrave@autismsociety-nc.org.

Background: 

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Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a lifelong developmental disability that typically appears during the first three years of life. Recent studies estimate that up to 1 of every 58 children born in North Carolina will be affected by ASD. For more than 44 years, the Autism Society of North Carolina has worked to address areas of need and expand services for the autism community in North Carolina. ASNC works to directly improve the lives of individuals affected by autism, by providing advocacy, education, and services.

Additional information is available by calling 1-800-442-2762 or by visiting www.autismsociety-nc.org.

SOURCE: PRESS RELEASE

The Monthly Melody appreciates good art! And, we decided we wanted to feature an autism related tattoo each month. So, seeing as how this is our debut issue, we decided to share that tattoo of our President, Chris Wilson. Chris has many tattoos, but this is his first autism inspired tattoo. This piece of art is a puzzle piece made up of puzzle pieces. The tattoo represents the many pieces that make up each aspect of a person, and that each person is a part of a much bigger puzzle…the puzzle of life. “I don’t see people with autism as someone who is missing a piece of their puzzle,” said Chris Wilson. “I believe that we are all pieces to the puzzle of life and we are all different in our own way.”

Do you have an autism related tattoo that you would like to share? Send us a picture to support@werockforautism.org and we just may feature your tattoo in an upcoming issue!

Please include a story to go along with the picture, we wanna know what or who was your inspiration, how or why you choose the design and if you want to include the artist and/or tattoo shop, we can give them credit for their work!

The facility, which now is located at 300 Cold Soil Rd., is known for its applied behavior analysis research in autism intervention. The research has produced treatment models for individuals with autism that now are being replicated nationally and internationally, according to the institute.

Fenske, 64, is a graduate of the United States Military Academy at West Point in New York. He also earned a master’s degree in special education and an educational specialist degree in learning disabilities from The College of New Jersey.

Co-executive of Princeton autism program to retire after 39 years PRINCETON — As Edward Fenske prepares to retire from the Princeton Child Development Institute at the end of this month, some of his fondest memories throughout his 39-year stint date back to the days when the facility started out with just nine students and six staff members.

Founded in 1970, the institute is a private, nonprofit program offering science-based services to children, adolescents and adults with autism. Classes were originally held in a rented space at Princeton Friends Meeting on Quaker Road.

“Every Friday afternoon, we would pack up the classrooms for the Sunday services,” recalled Fenske, a longtime Ewing resident, of the institute’s early beginnings, in a news release issued yesterday announcing his Aug. 31 retirement.

He joined the institute’s team in 1975 as a child therapist trainee, working under the leadership of behavior analysts Lynn McClannahan and Patricia Krantz. He later served in several education leadership roles before becoming co-executive director with Gregory MacDuff seven years ago.

“Working shoulder-to-shoulder with professionals like McClannahan and Krantz gave me the opportunity to learn how to design and deliver science-based intervention for children with autism,” Fenske said in the release.

MacDuff will continue as executive director following Fenske’s retirement.

“While his leadership, perspective, enthusiasm and presence will definitely be missed, the contributions Ed has made will ensure that PCDI remains a leader in the science-based treatment and therapy of children and adults with autism, and continues to be a one of the premier autism institutes for years to come,” MacDuff said in a statement.

SOURCE: www.NJ.com / The Times, Trenton

Awareness Acceptance Awesomeness

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