23 · OAKVILLE BEAVER Wednesday, October 21, 2009 Davis Autism Approach®: New Program Autism is characterized by a lack of typical social development. Some individuals on the autism spectrum may be severely affected, as in nonverbal children who seem locked in their own worlds, ignoring most overtures from those around them. Others may be less severely affected, and develop adequate language skills, but nevertheless have great difficulty fitting in socially, or using language in socially appropriate ways. Davis Autism Approach offers an invitation to an autistic individual to participate fully in life. The approach is drug-free, and helps the individual develop concepts and behaviours that are necessary for understanding how the world works, and how to live and work within the world of people. The Autism Approach Program is delivered one-on-one, and leads the individual through three stages: individuation teaches the individual to be fully present and therefore available for learning; identity development leads the individual through concepts that help him deal with the real world; social integration helps the individual develop the thinking and behavioural skills that allow interaction with others to make sense. For information about this fascinating new approach, contact Dr. Cathy Dodge Smith at 905-844-4144 or visit www.autiamapproach.ca Oakville takes education seriously A Special Feature by The Oakville Beaver Davis Autism Approach®: New Program Ronald D. Davis, author of The Gift of Dyslexia, is seen presenting a Davis Autism Approach Facilitator/Coach license to Dr. Cathy Dodge Smith, Director of Autism Approach Associates She is the first person in Ontario qualified to offer this wonderful, drug-free method of treating autism. The Week of the Child Oct. 17-25 See our programs for children & youth at For information about this fascinating new approach, contact Dr. Dodge Smith at 905-844-4144 or visit www.autismapproach.ca 905-845-3417 410 Rebecca St., Oakville, ON L6K 1K7 E-mail: customerservice@oakville.ymca.ca We build strong kids, strong families, strong communities. Bring this ad to the get and YMCA of Oakville Pass. a FREE Family Swim 2009 s Nov. 4, Offer expire family swim Limited to ONE free n per year. pass per family/perso OB091021 Limited to ONE free swim pass per person/family per year. Individuals on the autism spectrum experience difficulty with social relationships, and the social use of language. The YMCA is the largest childcare provider in Oakville.