Autism and the awareness surrounding it is much greater today then even just a decade or two ago. So are the rates at which autism is being diagnosed. In 2024, 1 in 35 children were diagnosed with autism, or roughly 4 out of every 100 boys and 1 in 100 girls. This is a nearly 175% increase since the turn of the century. Access to resources needed in our local communities is limited but does exist. Erica Matthews, Owner and Lead Instructor of The Autism and Movement Project in Pana, provides services to children and adults with neurological development disorders through dance and therapy. Matthews shares what started this project for her and the deeper meaning placed behind it.

Matthews breaks down the group sessions to the individuals needs, strengths and weaknesses. Matthews tells of the various programs and how they benefit her students.

The number of students worked with has changed dramatically speaking to the communities need. Matthews describes the changes she has seen firsthand.

Find out more about The Autism and Movement Project at their Facebook page. More information can also be found at www.aamplearningcenter.org.

Erica Matthews appeared as a guest on the WTIM Pana Morning Show.