Crisis Services
ASERT does not offer crisis services through our Resource Center. If you or someone you love is experiencing mental health distress or thoughts of suicide please call or text 988 for support.
Site: PAAutism
Going Back to Work Social Story
This resource provides a visual guide for individuals with autism about going back to work after the COVID-19 pandemic. The resource includes information on what will be different at work because of the pandemic.
Read moreGoing Into the Community: Self-Advocates
This resource provides information for self-advocates about going out into the community as the state moves forward from stay at home orders related to COVID-19.
Read moreGoing Shopping During COVID-19
This resource provides a visual guide for individuals with autism about going shopping during the COVID-19 pandemic. An animated version of the social story is also included.
Read moreGoing to a Restaurant Social Story
This social story developed by ASERT explains what to do when you go to a restaurant.
Read moreGoing to Middle School
Starting middle school is stressful for any student, but the process can be even more challenging for a student on the autism spectrum (ASD) and for his or her parents. Many things will be different. The school will probably be larger, the campus more confusing and the enrollment may be several times greater than in elementary school. The student likely will not know his or her new teachers and, in turn, the teachers might not know anything about the student. The aide, if one is needed and provided, may be a stranger. Many of the students will not know their classmate with ASD. Planning for the transition process will ideally begin several months before the actual transition occurs.
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Going to the Dentist Social Stories
These visual stories provide information about what to expect when going to the dentist. Social stories cover going to the dentist, getting teeth cleaned, getting x-rays and getting a cavity filled. These stories were developed in collaboration with UPMC Public Health Dental Clinic staff.
Read moreHand Washing Social Story
This resource provides a visual guide for individuals with autism on how to wash hands to help stay healthy. This resource has also been translated into Russian, Chinese, Spanish, and Arabic.
Read moreHow Anxiety Leads to Disruptive Behavior
Kids who seem oppositional are often severely anxious.
Read moreHow to Create a Social Story
This resource is designed to help justice system professionals create social stories for individuals with autism who may become involved in the juvenile or criminal justice system. Read below to learn more about creating social stories.
Read moreHow To Discuss Puberty with Your Child Who Has Special Needs
Many families are concerned that their child may receive some incorrect information from their peers if they do not teach them important facts first.
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