At the Autism Society of America Annual Conference, the International Society for Autism Research showcased its MeMoves video. MeMoves video can facilitate neural functioning and increase social communicative functioning. It was designed to increase focus and attention.

The video is simple. It shows people of all ages and ethnicities from young child to grandparents slowing moving their arms in different patterns and keeping rhythm with a beat similar to a metronome. There are three different sequences. They are joy, calm, and focus. The soothing music and fluid movement can help to unlock the mind of the autistic child. The video has no narration, nor are there loud noises or instructions to click to another screen. The simplicity of the video captivates children and gives them an opportunity to become calm and to focus. The video has also been used in nursing homes for patients with dementia. One mom reported that her daughter went from being able to read single letters to reading words and then chapter books. She began to make eye contact and spoke more fluently and easily. Twelve week studies have also been conducted and have shown good results. In the future, a study with a large number of children with autism will be conducted.

At the conference, attendees could watch the video and imitate the moves. Many of the adults (myself included) felt relaxed and calm while watching the video and doing the simple movements. I purchased the video myself to use with my children. I have to admit that I find it calming also. You can view video clips and get more information and details about MeMoves at www.thinkingmoves.com  There is also an available iPhone application. I highly recommend this product.

A federal judge in Detroit has certified a class action case against Blue Cross Blue Shield Michigan. The case brought by parents of autistic children claims that BCBS denied needed therapy to children with autism. The case is filed under ERISA provisions. The parents have asked for their full health care benefits and for equitable relief. They asked the court for declaratory and injunctive relief, unspecified damages, costs, interest, and attorneys' fees.  The class is comprised of BCBS insureds who made a claim for applied behavior analysis (ABA) that was denied on the grounds that it is investigative or experimental.