The Hamilton Niagara Regional Autism Program, part of McMaster Children’s Hospital will be hosting our Autism Art Auction for its 3rd year. This event showcases the amazing talent of our clients and supporters in the community.
We are extremely pleased to be sharing the news that Alex Tan will be submitting his artwork again this year. Alex has submitted his work every year and we have been waiting anxiously to see his wonderful creations for this year.
When Alex came in to drop off his submissions we had the opportunity to meet with him. We were able to ask a couple questions to get to know him. Alex is only 13, currently in grade 8, and his creations are something that one would see in a published setting.
He enjoys watching cartoons, particularly those from the 40’s and 90’s, and likes Hanna Barbera. He told us cartoons are his favourite theme and we are in total awe at the creativity and story behind his pieces.
Alex loves to draw and finds it relaxing and therapeutic; in fact he told us he seems to be most creative late at night. His illustrations are unique right down to his signature that he has created for himself.
Alex is very proud of his work and so he should be. He builds excitement for us as we wait to see what he brings us each year and he continually blows our minds away. We are lucky to have such amazing talent like Alex be part of our event.
Please be sure to visit the gallery of artwork in this year’s auction along with Alex’s creations.
Thank you Alex for sharing your wonderful talent with us!!
Armando Guevara is an 8 year old boy who has been in the Autism Program for the last 2 years. His dad Jose shared with us that his experience here has been great and he has seen improvements in Armando’s social skills and other areas.
“When Armando started therapy he was not toilet trained and given the intense 1 on 1 therapy and the skills given to the parents he was trained in the first 2 months.”
-Jose Guevara
At first, Armando struggled with the change in routine when he switched from intense 1 on 1 therapy to a more group based setting, but has been able to adjust and flourish.
He has responded well to this type of therapy and has been able to transfer the skills he has learned to both school and other environments.
Armando’s grandmother has been a huge part of his therapy as well. She has participated in his goals here to ensure that they are carried over into the home setting as well. Parent generalization and training is another very important piece of therapy that families receive.
“We have seen huge changes in Armando in our group settings, like being able to line up, take turns and raise his hand. All skills that transfer nicely into the school setting. Armando has always been a good reader and has improved tremendously in his printing”
-Courtney, Therapist at Ron Joyce Children’s Health Centre
Armando continues to work on his requesting and is beginning to play and interact nicely with his brother at home.
Father, Jose says he has been very impressed with the communication and professionalism of the staff with parents during his involvement in the program.
