Center for Autism Research at CHOP

08/11/2026

As we celebrate the success of the 9th Annual Autism Play Date "AusomeCon," we want to begin with our deepest gratitude to Councilmember Kendra Brooks, whose continued leadership and commitment to Philadelphia families made it possible to host this incredible community event.

We are also incredibly thankful to our valued partners, Bancroft and Smith Memorial Playground & Playhouse, for helping create a welcoming, inclusive space where autistic individuals, families, caregivers, and advocates could come together for a day of connection, resources, learning, and fun.

This event would not have been possible without the generous support of our sponsors. Thank you for investing in our autism community and helping us make a meaningful impact:
✨ Avela Health
✨ Elwyn
✨ ABA Centers of Pennsylvania
✨ WonderSpring Early Education
✨ PPL
✨ Aurora Home Care
✨ Acclaim Autism

Your support helped bring smiles, resources, opportunities, and unforgettable experiences to countless families across our region.
As an autism father, seeing our community come together in such a powerful way reminds me that when organizations, advocates, families, and community leaders work together, we can create spaces where every individual is valued, supported, and celebrated.

From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for helping make the 9th Annual Autism Play Date an AUSOME success!

06/17/2026

We are seeking families of 12–15 year olds for an NIH-funded study on conversation success! Conversations are important for everyday life, but we don’t yet know what makes them work. This study will examine different talking styles and techniques to identify what helps teens communicate better.

Open to autistic and non-autistic teens, plus all activities are online. Compensation is provided.

For referrals or more info, contact [email protected] or 267-425-0304 or visit https://www.research.chop.edu/ready-to-connect-conversation-and-language-in-teens

06/11/2026

06/08/2026

CAR knows and hears the concerns of Fathers and Fathers with loved ones on the Autism Spectrum.

There are moments of celebration, moments of uncertainty, and moments when connecting with another parent who has walked a similar path can make all the difference.

That's why the Center for Autism Research at CHOP is excited to host the Special Fathers Network as part of their 50 States, 30 Days Tour.

Whether you're a father, mother, caregiver, family member, educator, or professional, this event is a wonderful opportunity to learn, connect, and build relationships with others in the disability community.

📅 Thursday, June 11, 2026
🕛 12:00 PM – 1:30 PM
📍 Roberts Center for Pediatric Research
734 Schuylkill Avenue, Philadelphia

You'll have the chance to meet local mentor fathers, hear from author and podcast host David Hirsch, learn about the Special Fathers Network, and receive a complimentary copy of the book Dads Raising Children With Special Needs & Disabilities.

Register here: www.21stCenturyDads.org

Please share with anyone who may benefit from this inspiring event. I hope to see you there!

06/05/2026

The Power of Ten!

Thank you for following along over the past 10 days as we get ready to celebrate 10 years of SPARK and the incredible community that made it all possible.

Together, SPARK participants have helped shape a decade of research that continues to deepen understanding of autism and inform the future.

Our Family Fun Day Carnival is TOMORROW! Join us for games, arts & crafts, sensory-friendly activities, food, and a community resource fair. We can't wait to celebrate with you!

RSVP: https://events.ticketleap.com/tickets/centerforautismresearch/spark-family-day-carnival

✨Community Partner Highlight✨

The Center for Autism Research at CHOP is home to SPARK and many other research initiatives dedicated to improving the lives of autistic individuals and their families.

As our understanding of autism has evolved, so has the scope of CAR's research. From infant development and language to genetics, neuroimaging, and community-based research, CAR's teams are working to answer important questions across the lifespan.

These advances are only possible because of the participation of individuals and families. Thank you for being our partners in research and discovery.

Learn about other research opportunities at CAR: https://www.research.chop.edu/car/research-studies

See you tomorrow! 🎪✨

06/04/2026

Seeking Gaming Systems! 🎮
The Autism Institute's SDARI Youth Program, which hosts kids aged 8-17, is seeking a gaming system for our participants to use during their break time. If you happen to have one lying around not being used, we would love to put it to good use! Any system is fine by us - Wii, old Playstations or XBoxes, etc.
If you have one that you would like to donate, please contact Kyleigh at [email protected]
Thank you so much!
Social Connections & Treatment Lab - SCTL

06/04/2026

The Power of Ten!

The SPARK Community Advisory Council (CAC) ensures that the voice of our community is reflected in our work.

We currently have more than 30 members from across the country, including autistic adults, parents, and professionals who work in the autism community.

Learn more: https://sparkforautism.org/portal/page/advisors/

🎉 TWO DAYS AWAY! 🎉

Celebrate with us at our Family Fun Day Carnival! RSVP: https://events.ticketleap.com/tickets/centerforautismresearch/spark-family-day-carnival

✨Community Partner Highlight✨

Today's spotlight is on the incredible organizations, teams, and community partners who will help make our carnival so special. From resources and research opportunities to arts & crafts, activities, education, and family support, these groups are helping create a day filled with connection, learning, and fun.

Be sure to stop by the resource fair, say hello, and learn more about the amazing work happening throughout our community! 💙

ABA Centers of Pennsylvania
AJ Drexel Autism Institute
ASERT Autism Resources
Aurora Autism Centers
Beyond Autism Services
Elwyn
Jefferson Autism Center for Excellence
Literacy and More
Mosden Music Therapy, LLC
Philadelphia Autism Project
Philadelphia Fire Department
Posibilidades Infinitas
Sky Zone Philadelphia, PA
Special Smiles, Ltd
Steady Strides Behavior Solutions
CAR Infant Brain Imaging Study (IBIS)
CAR Language Team
CAR PASSAGE Team
Center for Injury Research and Prevention at CHOP
Program in Advanced Imaging Research (PAIR) at CHOP
CHOP Reach Out and Read
CHOP Recruitment Enhancement Core & Research Family Partners
Lurie Autism Institute
University of Pennsylvania Autism Spectrum Program of Excellence

06/03/2026

The Power of Ten!

Researchers use SPARK data and SPARK Research Match to investigate a wide variety of topics, from genetic changes to school services, and they publish their findings in scientific journals. Thanks to those who take part, SPARK has more than 250 research publications. Learn more: https://sparkforautism.org/portal/page/research-publications/

We’re three days away from our Family Fun Day Carnival of games, arts & crafts, sensory-friendly activities, food, and a resource fair! Join us!

✨Community Partner Highlight✨

We're grateful to Spectrum Designs Foundation, the team behind our anniversary merchandise. They are committed to inclusive employment opportunities that empower individuals on the autism spectrum to do their best work and thrive in the workplace.

We're also excited to welcome The Mercy Truck, who will bringing refreshments, resources, and activities for families to enjoy throughout the day. This non-profit organization exists to be an avenue of compassion and assistance to our community!

RSVP: https://events.ticketleap.com/tickets/centerforautismresearch/spark-family-day-carnival

06/02/2026

The Power of Ten!

SPARK has expanded participation in research, helping ensure more voices and experiences are represented. With over 400,000 participants, SPARK is the largest study of autism ever.

When a community comes together, small moments add up to big impact. Be part of the celebration at our Family Fun Day this Saturday! Music, food, resources, and activities for all abilities.

✨Community Partner Highlight✨

We're thrilled to have SnapStation Photo Booths and Fiesta PARTY Rentals LLC at our SPARK Family Fun Day Carnival! Be sure to stop by the photo booth and one of the inflatable bounce houses!

We’re grateful for their support in helping create a day filled with smiles, laughter, and community connection.

RSVP: https://events.ticketleap.com/tickets/centerforautismresearch/spark-family-day-carnival

06/01/2026

The Power of Ten!

SPARK has helped researchers better understand co-occurring traits and the wide range of strengths and support needs across the autism spectrum. Together, we’re learning more every day.

Join us for a day of fun, connection, and community at our carnival celebration this Saturday!

✨Community Partner Highlight✨

We’re excited to welcome Face Painting by Beth and Live Balloons Party Entertainment to our SPARK Family Fun Day Carnival! 🎨🎈

These talented vendors will be helping bring the carnival to life with colorful face painting and creative balloon art for attendees to enjoy throughout the day. We’re so grateful for their support in making this celebration extra special!

RSVP: https://events.ticketleap.com/tickets/centerforautismresearch/spark-family-day-carnival