Located on the third floor of the building is what appears to be just another office. Glass doors greet any visitor that happens to drop in. However, what is behind these doors is much more than just an office; it is a place for parents and caregivers of those on the Autism Spectrum to find support, resources and connection.
Free and open to the public, the center is essentially a space that anyone can use with resources available featuring advice and counseling on how best to connect with those, not just on the Autism Spectrum, but also various resources throughout the community that may be able to help. The center works closely with other centers in the state, such as the LOGAN Center in South Bend, IN and the Indiana Resource Center for Autism in Bloomington, IN to provide as many resource options as possible.
In addition to the recommendations the center can provide, the office boasts an impressive amount of books stacked in shelves along the back wall, as well as computers with internet access, Wi-Fi, a conference space that has a TV equipped with a DVD player and even an on-site social worker for referral information. The idea is to make the space usable and supportive for everyone who comes along, including parents, grandparents and/or caregivers.
The two computers each have access to “Boardmaker,” an interactive software that allows the user to create visual communication boards that they can, in turn, print at the center and use at home. These boards can be used for anything from schedules at home, school or church, the possibilities are endless! With help from the center’s staff, each child or adult can design a board that meets their specific needs.
Committed to helping in whatever way they can, the center may also direct its visitors to the autism sensory lab located on the second floor of the building. The therapy provided in this room of sensory stimulators helps children and adults develop skills to overcome sensory, motor and perceptual problems that affect their daily lives. Sensory integration is an essential element to understanding the environment around us and encourages awareness of both self and surroundings.
For more information be sure to visit eastersealscrossroads.org or call 877.330.3300 toll free.