In order to expand participation in the Aug. 7 AuSM Skillshop, Infant Massage, AuSM is bringing in another expert presenter who teaches massage techniques to parents of children from age 2-15. The revised AuSM Skillshop, Bonding with Your Infant/Child Through Massage Therapy, is open to parents and their children from birth through age 15. The benefits of participating in this hands-on training with your child may include improved sleep and sleep patterns, parent and child communication, interaction and bonding. Click here for more information and to register. Space is limited.

The Autism & Employment Forum 2013 will take place at Cargill Excelsior Crossings in Hopkins, Minn. on October 24, 2013. Plan to join AuSM and top Minnesota corporations for this exciting event focused on "Working Locally, Thinking Globally." More details will be available soon!

Explore social skills while using simple drawing, painting, print-making and collage experiences to access your creativity. Social skill topics will include understanding body language and facial expressions, what it means to have a conversation, and how to understand your feelings and the feelings of others. No prior experience or special ability in art is needed. Curriculum is designed to foster self-awareness, personal expression, empathy and creativity in a fun, playful, low stress environment. Participants may bring a support person to Art Skillz sessions if needed. The first session begins with orientation on June 24. Click here for more information and to register.

What are you doing this summer? The AuSM Bookstore has some great recommended reads that will help you plan exciting activities for the sunny days ahead. Learning doesn't end with the close of the school year. Explore AuSM's line-up of social skills-building day camps offered in the coming weeks including AuSM Art Skillz and the CAST Program by Stages Theatre Company. AuSM Skillshops will continue through the summer months as well. This is where your AuSM summer begins!

Through the Steps of Hope Support Grant program, AuSM awards thousands of dollars each year to those applying for items and projects that support individuals of all ages with autism. Grant applications have included requests for items such as iPads and other technology, specific therapies, a water filtration system, sensory room items, yoga start-up for children with autism, and fencing for a yard. Educators have applied for setting up sensory, technology or therapy rooms.

Grants are made possible because of the generous donations AuSM receives during the Steps of Hope fundraising walk. The goal of AuSM grants is to stimulate creativity, encourage successful programming and expand opportunitites for individuals living with ASD for many years to come. Click here for more information and to apply for a Steps of Hope Support Grant. Applications are due July 1, 2013.