iiinova — where your digital self keeps evolving

SPARK for Autism @sparkforautism.bsky.social · 13h

👉 RSVP and join us on FB Live: www.facebook.com/share/18wpAA... *The recording will be available once the program concludes!

facebook.com

000

SPARK for Autism @sparkforautism.bsky.social · 13h

Join us for October's webinar! What: Comparative Analysis of Autistic Women Across the Lifespan — Childhood vs. Adulthood Diagnosis When: Friday, October 23rd | 12:00-1:00pm EST 👉 Register to join us via Zoom: bit.ly/4jGe2qf

100

SPARK for Autism @sparkforautism.bsky.social · 10/10/2026

How do parents respond when a young child is upset? 💜 In a recent Research Match study of 1,780 parents of kids ages 2–5, parents of autistic children reported slightly more supportive responses, and fewer non-supportive or distressed ones. Read the summary: ow.ly/s3AU50ZWyvc

000

SPARK for Autism @sparkforautism.bsky.social · 08/10/2026

"Everybody's experience is important." 💛 Hear from a SPARK family on why their voices matter in research. Hear from them: youtu.be/NoojytPOO6A?si=oPyzYPwSwAL… Already in SPARK? Log in and keep your profile up to date. sparkforautism.org/portal/dashboard #SPARKforAutism

000

SPARK for Autism @sparkforautism.bsky.social · 07/10/2026

Do we have your latest email address? Log in and make sure your account and profile are up to date so we can reach you with account updates, any eligible Research Match opportunities, and more. Tap the link in bio to log in to your dashboard: sparkforautism.org/portal/dashboard

000

SPARK for Autism @sparkforautism.bsky.social · 06/10/2026

Many autistic children have other conditions too. 💙 In SPARK, almost 75% have at least one other diagnosis, compared with about 30% of their siblings without autism. Knowing what's common helps families get the right support. sparkforautism.org/discover_article… #SPARKforAutism

000

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

000

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/

000

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

000

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

010

SPARK for Autism @sparkforautism.bsky.social · 18/09/2026

Part 1 of a 2-part series, tap the link: bit.ly/SPARK… *Help is available right now: Call/text 988 | Text HOME to 741741

000

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.

202

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

100

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…

000

SPARK for Autism @sparkforautism.bsky.social · 10/09/2026

Step by step, we SPARK the way. Ten years of community-powered autism research. #WeAreSPARK

020

SPARK for Autism @sparkforautism.bsky.social · 05/09/2026

Join us via FB Live: www.facebook.com/share/1HMZ5C... If you are unable to join us live, no problem. All SPARK webinars are recorded and shared on each of our platforms for future viewing. ❤️

facebook.com

000

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

100

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

000

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

000

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/

000

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

000

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/

000

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/

000

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! ✨

000

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 💛

000

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

000

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

000

SPARK for Autism @sparkforautism.bsky.social · 07/08/2026

Every week, we will feature one of our amazing clinical sites and showcase their 10th Anniversary events for #SPARKFunFridays. The incredible folks who attend these events, and the teams that make them happen, are the heart and soul of SPARK. We couldn't do this without you. Thank you for 🔟 YEARS!!✨

000

SPARK for Autism @sparkforautism.bsky.social · 07/08/2026

teamed up with St. Louis Dinosaur for a 🦕dino-mite🦖 celebration! When it comes to supporting autism research, this crew shows up for their community every time. ❤️

100

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...

101

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 🔗

000

SPARK for Autism @sparkforautism.bsky.social · 06/08/2026

RSVP to join via Facebook Live: www.facebook.com/share/19BNP2... *As always, the recording of this webinar will be available once it concludes if you are unable to make it live!

facebook.com

000

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

100

SPARK for Autism @sparkforautism.bsky.social · 01/08/2026

Common GI complaints include constipation, diarrhea, excessive gas, and abdominal pain. “It’s such a widespread concern for families of autistic children,” says Cynthia E. Brown, Ph.D., who has researched this issue in youth in the SPARK autism study.

bit.ly

What’s the Link Between Autism and GI Problems? - SPARK for Autism

Many autistic people have gastrointestinal problems. Researchers look at what might be happening.

100

SPARK for Autism @sparkforautism.bsky.social · 01/08/2026

Sometimes, when the pain becomes too much, he stops eating. “We see him suffer, so we suffer a lot with him,” Padua says. Gabriel is one of many children and adults with autism who have frequent or chronic gastrointestinal (GI) problems or disorders. bit.ly/4fxCozP

bit.ly

What’s the Link Between Autism and GI Problems? - SPARK for Autism

Many autistic people have gastrointestinal problems. Researchers look at what might be happening.

100

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

110

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...

010

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 👈

000

SPARK for Autism @sparkforautism.bsky.social · 12/06/2026

Join us via Facebook Live: www.facebook.com/share/1B894t... *As always, if you aren't able to make it live - not to worry. You can also find the recording available as soon as it concludes!

facebook.com

000

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

100

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!

100

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

000

SPARK for Autism @sparkforautism.bsky.social · 21/04/2026

From our incredible participants and clinical site partners to the breakthroughs in genetics and research discovery, we have so much to be thankful for. ❤️ ps. If you haven't done so lately, be sure to log into your SPARK dashboard to check out the latest! sparkforautism.org/portal/dashb...

sparkforautism.org

SPARK

010

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! 🎉

sparkforautism.org

SPARK

100

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! 🔍✨

001

SPARK for Autism @sparkforautism.bsky.social · 09/04/2026

Join SPARK today! Or log back into your SPARK account and complete your surveys. 🫶 sparkforautism.org/portal/dashb...

sparkforautism.org

SPARK

About SPARK

000

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...

100