The Maryland Center for Developmental Disabilities (MCDD) Autism Research and Engagement Core team members are consultants to SPARK (Simons Powering Autism Research), a long-term study of autism spectrum disorder. Those members include Cheryl Cohen, MS, director of online and community programs; J. Kiely Law, MD, MPH, research director; Marina Sarris, MA, web content administrator; and Jaimie Toroney, MHS, research manager.
Sarris contributed an article, “Ten Takeaways From 10 Years of Studying Autism,” to SPARK’s website, where it posted on June 2. Over the past decade, the SPARK autism research study has grown into the world’s largest autism research community, leading to major advances in understanding autism through large-scale genetic and participant data. The article highlights 10 key discoveries that are helping shape more personalized support and future research.
Sarris also authored “Water Safety Tips for Children with Autism” for SPARK’s website, where it posted on June 11. Children and teenagers with autism are at an increased risk of drowning, making early water safety education, swimming instruction, wandering prevention, and layered safety strategies essential for reducing risk and keeping children safe around water. The article also emphasizes that caregivers can improve safety by creating a personalized water safety plan and practicing prevention strategies consistently, both at home and in the community.
On July 8, SPARK published a third article by Sarris, “Making Back to School Easier for Students with Autism and Their Families.” The article offers practical strategies to help autistic students transition back to school, including gradually reestablishing routines, visiting the school in advance, using visual supports, and preparing teachers with information about the child’s's strengths and support needs.
Lastly, on Aug. 4, SPARK published Sarris’ article “How Does Raising an Autistic Child Affect a Couple’s Relationship?” Research shows that parents of autistic children do not have the widely cited 80% divorce rate, despite the added stresses of caregiving. The article highlights that many couples demonstrate resilience, with communication and a strong relationship foundation supporting long-term success.
The Autism Research and Engagement Core produced four new SPARK Research Match Summary Reports, which provide valuable insights into critical topics related to autism. The first report, “How Does Physical Activity Affect Sleep in Autistic Adults?” summarizes a study finding that regular physical activity was associated with better sleep, while greater inactivity was linked to shorter and less consistent sleep patterns. The findings suggest that increasing physical activity may help improve sleep, social functioning, and overall quality of life for autistic adults.
The second report, “Identifying Depression in Autistic Adults With Limited or No Speech,” summarizes a study suggesting that depression may be underdiagnosed in autistic adults with limited or no speech, as many parents reported signs of depression despite few participants having a formal diagnosis. It emphasizes the importance of recognizing changes in mood and behavior, and improving mental health screening for this population.
Another report, “Does the Age of Autism Diagnosis Relate to Life Satisfaction in Adulthood?,” found that autistic adults diagnosed in early childhood reported greater life satisfaction, independence, and social well-being than those diagnosed later in life. The findings suggest that earlier diagnosis may provide opportunities for support that contribute to better long-term outcomes, although more research is needed to understand why.
The last report, “How Does Race Relate to Depression Symptoms and Diagnosis in Autistic Adults?,” summarizes a study that found that Black autistic adults may be more likely than white autistic adults to have undiagnosed depression, despite experiencing similar levels of depressive symptoms. The findings highlight racial disparities in access to mental health diagnosis and care, and underscore the need for more appropriate screening and treatment.