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SPARK for Autism

@sparkforautism.bsky.social
66 followers 5 following 125 posts

Learn more: www.SPARKforAutism.org Questions? Email our support team at: info@SPARKforAutism.org 🥳 Celebrating TEN YEARS of SPARK in 2026! 🎉

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SPARK for Autism @sparkforautism.bsky.social · 01/10/2026
Part 2 of our series: what researchers are doing to prevent suicide in autistic youth — a new screening tool, autism-adapted safety planning, and a persistent myth put to the test. Tap the link: bit.ly/SPARK-pt-2 Help is available right now: Call/text 988 | Text HOME to 741741
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SPARK for Autism @sparkforautism.bsky.social · 26/09/2026
Dr. Latha Valluripalli Soorya, SPARK Site PI at Rush : SPARK gave her program the support to move beyond the hospital and into the community — reaching families they otherwise wouldn’t have had time to find. 💛 #WeAreSPARK sparkforautism.org/portal/dashboard/
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SPARK for Autism @sparkforautism.bsky.social · 24/09/2026
Been a minute since you logged in? 💜 Your voice — and your data — are still shaping the future of autism research. Jump back in and see what's new. sparkforautism.org/portal/dashboard #WeAreSPARK
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SPARK for Autism @sparkforautism.bsky.social · 23/09/2026
Science isn't just labs and data — sometimes it's studying the hardest transition any of us go through: growing up. That work happens because of participants like you. Your dashboard's always open 👉 sparkforautism.org/portal/dashboard
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SPARK for Autism @sparkforautism.bsky.social · 18/09/2026
This Suicide Prevention Month, we want to highlight that autistic people face a meaningfully higher risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors than their peers. The research is clear on what actually helps: -Asking directly is safe. -Responding with calm matters.
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SPARK for Autism @sparkforautism.bsky.social · 12/09/2026
🦩 #SPARKFunFriday: AARTS Center at Rush celebrated 10 Years of SPARK at Lincoln Park Zoo — flocking together for a great cause! 💙 #WeAreSPARK
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SPARK for Autism @sparkforautism.bsky.social · 11/09/2026
New Research Match summary: How do health care experiences for autistic teens and young adults differ between rural and urban communities? Some real differences, and some shared challenges too. Tap the link: sparkforautism.org/discover_article…
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SPARK for Autism @sparkforautism.bsky.social · 10/09/2026
Step by step, we SPARK the way. Ten years of community-powered autism research. #WeAreSPARK
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SPARK for Autism @sparkforautism.bsky.social · 05/09/2026
September's webinar registration is live! Join us— Breaking Barriers to Physical Activity — How Digital Health, Family, and Peer Support Can Empower Autistic Adults 📆 🕛 Tuesday, September 22nd at 12:00-1:00pm EST Join us via Zoom: bit.ly/4x5Yaju
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SPARK for Autism @sparkforautism.bsky.social · 04/09/2026
New research: recognizing early developmental differences (response to name, gestures, changes in skills) is linked to earlier autism diagnosis. Full summary here: bit.ly/4cmIocQ #WeAreSPARK
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SPARK for Autism @sparkforautism.bsky.social · 02/09/2026
Trudi Sullivan is helping raise awareness for an often-overlooked group — adults navigating life with autism later in their journey. Read her story and see why representation like hers matters. #WeAreSPARK 🔗 Full story: bit.ly/46GBWd7
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SPARK for Autism @sparkforautism.bsky.social · 31/08/2026
A new study asked ~125 autistic adults to name their own strengths (multiple allowed): 🧠 61% cognitive/executive functioning, ❤️ 55% character, 🎨 52% creative, 📚 33% academic, 🤝 30% interpersonal, 📣 15% advocacy. sparkforautism.org/discover_article/rm-strengths-talents-adults/
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SPARK for Autism @sparkforautism.bsky.social · 29/08/2026
It's #SPARKFunFriday 🥳 This week, we're celebrating 10 years of SPARK with the team at Nationwide Children's, who gathered for a social to mark the milestone. 💛 You are what makes SPARK, SPARK. Here's to TEN years 🎉 #SPARKFunFriday #10YearsOfSPARK
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SPARK for Autism @sparkforautism.bsky.social · 27/08/2026
Big or small, every detail you share with SPARK adds up to real discoveries. If it's been a while since you logged in, this is your sign. 💛 Update your profile, tell us what's new — future research (and future families) will thank you. sparkforautism.org/portal/dashboard/
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SPARK for Autism @sparkforautism.bsky.social · 25/08/2026
Science moves fast. Dr. Banks (@UMMCnews) explains: families sharing their experiences with SPARK, again and again, is what helps researchers keep up. Already signed up? Log back in and share what's new. 💛 sparkforautism.org/portal/dashboard/
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SPARK for Autism @sparkforautism.bsky.social · 21/08/2026
It's #SPARKFunFriday! 🥳 Celebrating 10 years of SPARK, @cincychildrens.bsky.social threw a full Autism Carnival — popcorn, face painting, games, a photo booth, dancing. Even Mayor Aftab Pureval stopped by, grateful for work to "bring families together." 10 years down! ✨
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SPARK for Autism @sparkforautism.bsky.social · 21/08/2026
"Walk a Mile in My Shoes" Ep. 2 🎥 Dr. Amanda Gulsrud and a SPARK family discuss diagnosis, delay, and trust in communities of color. Delay ≠ deny. Ten years in, we're staying the course. #WeAreSPARK 💛
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SPARK for Autism @sparkforautism.bsky.social · 20/08/2026
Why do some autistic kids get more help? This study shows that stigma may not be the main barrier for most families. Read the full SPARK Research Match Summary Report: What Role Does Stigma Play in the Use of Autism Services by Different Groups? 🔗👉 bit.ly/4gkKI4W
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SPARK for Autism @sparkforautism.bsky.social · 11/08/2026
Science doesn't guess, it discovers. 🧬 And every time you log back into SPARK, you're helping researchers do exactly that. Log back into your SPARK account today!✨ sparkforautism.org/portal/dashboard
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SPARK for Autism @sparkforautism.bsky.social · 07/08/2026
2026 has been full of celebrations in honor of #10YearsofSPARK! Our clinical sites across the country have been hosting their own events to celebrate with their communities. The University of Missouri's (Mizzou) Thompson Center for Autism and Neurodevelopment recently...
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SPARK for Autism @sparkforautism.bsky.social · 06/08/2026
Understanding gut-brain connections helps researchers develop better support for autistic individuals and their families. Read the full report — bit.ly/4w7ZcuY 🔗
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SPARK for Autism @sparkforautism.bsky.social · 06/08/2026
August webinar on deck! What: Understanding Strengths and Talents in Autistic Adults - Insights from Research with Linnea Lampinen When: Tuesday, August 25th 2026 — 12:00pm-1:00pm EST Register to join via Zoom: bit.ly/4pWyxzG
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SPARK for Autism @sparkforautism.bsky.social · 01/08/2026
Gabriel has struggled with gastrointestinal problems that have sent him to the hospital or kept him home from school at times. Chronic constipation and abdominal pain interfere with the 12-year-old’s daily life, say his parents, Jorge Rivera and Imayrin Padua. bit.ly/4fxCozP
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SPARK for Autism @sparkforautism.bsky.social · 30/07/2026
Haven't logged into your SPARK account in a while? We get it. Life is busy! Problem is — we miss you! We would love it if you took a few moments to log in to your dashboard today. Check out what's new. Autism research is waiting! #WeAreSPARK 👉 sparkforautism.org/portal/dashb...
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SPARK for Autism @sparkforautism.bsky.social · 30/07/2026
How many different types of autism are there? A study involving SPARK participants proposes an answer. Full article here: bit.ly/3Ti3FxH 👈
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SPARK for Autism @sparkforautism.bsky.social · 12/06/2026
Just in time for summer, this month's webinar is essential viewing! Tune in... 💦 Topic: Autism and Water Safety — Understanding Water Attraction and How to Reduce Risk When: Tuesday, June 16th at 12:00pm EST Join us via Zoom: bit.ly/4e9jEVy
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SPARK for Autism @sparkforautism.bsky.social · 25/05/2026
A mother pursued answers for years about her autistic son’s complex medical issues. Learn what she discovers... Read the full story on our website: bit.ly/4fAe5S2 or tap through!
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SPARK for Autism @sparkforautism.bsky.social · 22/05/2026
SPARK research is built on community participation, and your stories are the most valuable resource for answering autism questions. Keep sharing your journey, log back in to SPARK today. #AutismNeedsYourSPARK #10YearsofSPARK sparkforautism.org/portal/dashboard
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SPARK for Autism @sparkforautism.bsky.social · 21/04/2026
Wow. 10 years of SPARK, and it’s all thanks to you! 🎈✨ Since 2016, our mission has been to advance autism research, but we couldn’t do it alone. Check out the 10 things fueling our gratitude as we celebrate a decade of advancement since our launch on 4/21/2016! Here’s to many more! 🎉
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SPARK for Autism @sparkforautism.bsky.social · 17/04/2026
Over the past 10 years, SPARK has grown into a beautifully diverse community of autistic people and their families — an amazing accomplishment made possible by YOU. Thank you, from the bottom of our hearts, for every meaningful contribution from each and every one of our participants. Onward! 🔍✨
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SPARK for Autism @sparkforautism.bsky.social · 09/04/2026
Dr. Wendy Chung, principal investigator of SPARK, reflects on the achievements of the SPARK study over the last 10 years and how we want to progress in the future. By sharing your experiences over time, you help researchers discover what truly matters...
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SPARK for Autism @sparkforautism.bsky.social · 01/04/2026
bit.ly/4thyUFC 🫶 We know the steps in every autistic journey are different, & every step matters to science. SPARK researchers are helping understand how autistic lives evolve. From sleeping, to making friends, to living independently, we continue to study all aspects of the autistic experience.
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SPARK for Autism @sparkforautism.bsky.social · 27/03/2026
What does SPARK study? What’s happening with the saliva sample I sent for DNA analysis? These are among the thousands of questions that the SPARK help desk answers. Learn how this team can help you. Read the full article here: bit.ly/4rWSW7m ⬅️❓❔
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SPARK for Autism @sparkforautism.bsky.social · 25/03/2026
Don't forget to join us live, today, at 12:00 pm EST 3/25! We'll see you there. 👇
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SPARK for Autism @sparkforautism.bsky.social · 20/03/2026
April is quickly approaching, and that means we're getting closer to #AutismAcceptanceMonth! Our annual webinar with SPARK's fearless leader: ✨ Thursday, April 2nd ✨ 3:00pm-4:00pm EST ✨ Dr. Wendy Chung Register to join via Zoom: bit.ly/4sq05hy (1/2)
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SPARK for Autism @sparkforautism.bsky.social · 08/03/2026
With March underway, we're excited to announce this month's webinar! 🗣✨ What: How Many "Autisms" Are There? Grouping Traits to Reveal Different Genetic Programs with Natalie Sauerwald, Ph.D. When: Wed, March 25th — 12:00pm-1:00pm EST Zoom: bit.ly/4baz8H8 FB Live: www.facebook.com/share/18XY7Y...
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SPARK for Autism @sparkforautism.bsky.social · 25/02/2026
Join us live today! Or find the recording of today's webinar on each of our social media pages, our YouTube channel, and our website. See you all soon! ❤️
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SPARK for Autism @sparkforautism.bsky.social · 24/02/2026
The Henrys got genetic news about their son from the SPARK autism study. But that didn’t end their research journey. Read their full story here: bit.ly/4rKfUPJ
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SPARK for Autism @sparkforautism.bsky.social · 10/02/2026
Join us for some essential viewing — this month's SPARK webinar! ✨ What: Awareness to Action - Combating Autism Disparities in Black Communities Who: Natasha Nelson of Supernova Parenting When: Wednesday, February 25th at 12:00 pm EST Join us via Zoom: bit.ly/4kvElxy (1/2)
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SPARK for Autism @sparkforautism.bsky.social · 11/01/2026
Join us for the first webinar of the year! Strategies for Caregivers to Support Emotion Regulation DATE: Thursday, January 29th, 2026 TIME: 12:00-1:00pm EST SPEAKER: Rebecca C. Shaffer, Psy.D., HSPP 👉🔗 FB Register here to join via Zoom: bit.ly/4aQzbtj 👉🔗 FB Live: lnkd.in/ebj89xtu
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SPARK for Autism @sparkforautism.bsky.social · 29/12/2025
We hope everyone is thoroughly enjoying the holiday season. Sending love from SPARK! ❤️ 🎨 Original artwork by: Alicia S., Autistic Adult in SPARK
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SPARK for Autism @sparkforautism.bsky.social · 14/12/2025
Twins Kira and Aliya share many things: a bright smile, a love of art, and a strong resemblance to each other. The 10-year-olds also share the same condition: severe autism. 👉🔗 Read the full story: bit.ly/3Kz3MRr
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SPARK for Autism @sparkforautism.bsky.social · 09/12/2025
With December already underway, we would like to wish everyone a wonderful holiday season filled with love, acceptance, and community. Season's Greetings to you all! ❤️ 🎨 Original artwork by: Alicia S., Autistic Adult in SPARK
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SPARK for Autism @sparkforautism.bsky.social · 28/11/2025
Happy Thanksgiving! Be safe, eat well, and let the special people in your life know how much you love them! 🫶
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SPARK for Autism @sparkforautism.bsky.social · 24/11/2025
Many things changed for Braxton Webb in his 30s. He learned he has autism and began working with autistic children. Now he’s raising two sons, one with autism and one with ADHD. Follow his journey. Read more here: bit.ly/4oRmTF2 👈✨
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SPARK for Autism @sparkforautism.bsky.social · 06/11/2025
Join us for November's webinar: Gene-Environment Interaction in Autism-Cells, Populations, and Stakeholders with Heather E. Volk, Ph.D., M.P.H., on Tuesday, November 18th at 1-2:00pm EST Register via Zoom: bit.ly/4oskdh2 Join & RSVP via FB Live: www.facebook.com/share/1Czarh...
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SPARK for Autism @sparkforautism.bsky.social · 30/10/2025
This SPARK Research Match report explores self-reported masking in sexual minority and heterosexual autistic adults. 🔎📋 Explore the full summary report here: bit.ly/3Wwby0Q
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SPARK for Autism @sparkforautism.bsky.social · 22/10/2025
Tomorrow's webinar has a ton of interest! If you're available tomorrow at 1pm EST, you can join live! Otherwise, the recording will be available on our website, our social channels, and our YouTube! More info 👇
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SPARK for Autism @sparkforautism.bsky.social · 17/10/2025
Raising three kids with autism in rural Mississippi isn't easy. For Ayesha, SPARK provided answers, hope, and connection. Through SPARK, she received genetic insights, opportunities to participate in research from home, and most importantly — the feeling that she wasn't alone. 🫶
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Raising 3 Kids with Autism: Why This Mom Joined the SPARK Research Study
Raising three kids with autism in rural Mississippi isn't easy. For Ayesha, SPARK provided answers, hope, and connection. Through SPARK, she received genetic insights, opportunities to participate in research from home, and most importantly, the feeling that she wasn't alone. SPARK is the largest autism study ever, with over 400,000 participants. Families who join are helping researchers uncover the genetic links to autism, paving the way for better services, treatments, and understanding. Learn more and sign up today: SPARKforAutism.org
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SPARK for Autism @sparkforautism.bsky.social · 09/10/2025
Join us for October's webinar! Here's the scoop: 🗣️ The Numbers Behind Autism — Unpacking Prevalence, Trends, and Understanding of Heterogeneity 🗓️ Thursday, October 23rd 🕐 1:00-2:00pm EST Register - Zoom: bit.ly/4nRtpeI RSVP - Facebook Live: www.facebook.com/share/1CjA2WyXsi
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