Easter Seals Disability Services

The Autism Program (TAP)

• TAP in Chicago
• TAP in Rockford

The Autism Program (TAP) in Chicago and Rockford, Illinois Easter Seals Metropolitan Chicago is very pleased to partner with The Autism Program (TAP), a state-wide network of resources for Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD). The Autism Program of Illinois provides the strategy and framework for network partners to reach out into the community and address the complex issues involved in diagnosis, treatment and research for the thousands of children in Illinois with ASDs. The TAP program offers the following resources to those affected by autism:

Family Orientation Program

• A full day, multi-family New Diagnosis Family Orientation

Day Care Provider Training

• Offers training to day care providers on learning styles, communicative deficits, sensory sensitivities, social impairment and behavioral issues greatly benefits day care providers

Early Intervention Training

• Provides information for Early Intervention (EI) providers about the clinical diagnostic process and how a clinical diagnosis differs from an educational diagnosis

Law Enforcement and Other First Responder Training

• A specific training was developed to address growing concern among law enforcement officers, firefighters, EMTs, emergency room personnel and families of individuals with autism regarding special issues related to autism. Information on the characteristics of autism and basic response techniques are provided as well as assistance with necessary communication skills relating to individuals who are nonverbal or who lose communication skills when under stress

Social Skills Groups

• A nine-week program for families to enhance adaptive social skills in youth with high-functioning autism and Asperger’s Syndrome

Family and Community Resource Rooms Chicago and Rockford

• Our Resource Rooms contain evidence-based information on autism as an outreach service for families, teachers, service providers and anyone who works with or has an interest in individuals with autism
• Comprehensive Developmental Screenings and Diagnostics (Rockford Only)