Videos

3 New Special Needs Documentaries [Trailers]

Its been a busy 10 months for special needs documentaries. First, the movie Temple Grandin was launched last August. In quick succession 4 more documentaries where released over the fall and winter. In the past month three new documentaries about children with special needs have been released. Here are the trailers for the 3 latest special needs documentaries.

The United States of Autism

If ever there were a story that embodies the heart of America, it's the story found in families and individuals affected by autism. As people often fret about America, one can't help but hear the daily drumbeat of how folks have their best days behind them. To many so-called authorities, the situations faced by individuals and families dealing with autism are hopeless, as they seek to define for others what is "normal." Many parents attempt to navigate a system that is corrupt and/or inept and lose hope while their support systems crumble, leaving them to go it alone. Yet, in the face of such obstacles, some manage to rise above the fray. What drives them? Who are these people and how are they changing their communities? Website: www.usofautism.com

Certain Proof: A Question of Worth

Certain Proof:  A Question of Worth is a feature documentary about three children living with severe communication and physical disabilities, who struggle against society in an emotional battle to prove their worth. What if you couldn't speak?  Or use your hands?  How would you prove that you’re smart?   That you have an opinion?  That you matter? The Documentary follows the lives of Colin, Kay and Josh, who because of Cerebral Palsy, face those very challenges every day.  Over the course of two and a half years, they work through the public school system as their mothers fight for their child’s right to be there.  Colin age 10, finds “No Child Left Behind” has exceptions; Kay, 13, combats harsh stereotypes inside middle school; and Josh, 6, faces continual doubt that he can learn at all.   For the mothers, convincing the public schools of their child’s potential seems to be an insurmountable obstacle.  It’s a daily fight simply for the opportunity to learn.  To find their voice, Colin, Kay and Josh must overcome the judgments of others more so than their own disability. Website: www.certainproof.com

Autism: Coming of Age

Autism Spectrum Disorders are some of the most complex disabilities that families can face. This documentary examined the hopes, fears and challenges of parents raising children with autism. Some of the concerns the documentary focus on are:

• Independence
• Financial well-being
• Quality of life
• Employment
• Housing needs
• Education Health
• The child’s longevity

Website: www.massmutual.com/comingofage