In this podcast, we are amazed by our sensational guests Jamiyl Samuels and Tracy-Ann Samuels. Jamiyl, a creative writer of novels to screenplays, and Tracy-Ann, a social worker and Rutgers alumnus, are the co-founders of The Amazingly Sensational Kids (T.A.S.K), creating children's books that educate, entertain and empower. 

As parents of an awesome autistic child named Trey Samuels, they have advocated on behalf of this community with respect to access to education and services, anti-bullying, interfamily communications and social dynamics. The T.A.S.K book series, 'The Amazingly Awesome Amani' and 'Sensationally Super Sandy', are inspired by their son Trey's courageous journey as an autistic child navigating the realities of life through his vivid imagination as well as their super daughter Aja Samuels who supports her brother and advocates for autism acceptance and empowerment. 

Links to Resources:
T.A.S.K website - https://www.theamazinglysensationalkids.com
W.r.e.a.c Havoc website - https://www.wreachavoconline.com
Google Document with Resources - https://bit.ly/3oBf6gt
Guide to accessing HCBS by ASAN - https://autisticadvocacy.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/Accessing-HCBS-Guide-v1.pdf
Recent news article related to police reform - https://www.monroenews.com/story/news/2021/05/21/mimis-mission-carleton-police-joins-effort-protect-autistic-children/5176600001/

The Amazingly Sensational Kids of Jamiyl and Tracy-Ann Samuels

In this episode, stories and thoughts are shared from members of the NJACE team: Director Dr. Elizabeth Torres, Assistant to the Director Richa Rai and Program Manager, Jen Schonger. Their stories resonate with a wide range of perspectives, from managing tasks in graduate studies to balancing work and family, amidst physical distancing.

COVID-19 & Its Community Impact (Part 2)

In this episode of Autism Thinks, Hannah speaks with Dr. Antje Ihlefeld about auditory perception. Dr. Ihlefeld, an Assistant Professor in the Department of Biomedical Engineering at the New Jersey Institute of Technology, is the director of the Neural Engineering of Speech and Hearing (NESH) lab. From cochlear implants to routine audiological testing, this episode delves into discovering ways to improve the understanding of the auditory system— establishing this central theme: you need your brain to hear.

Lend me your Ears.. and Your Brain!

The NJACE is a network of community members, researchers, and service providers whose mission is to improve autism research and clinical care throughout the state of New Jersey, revamp autism training initiatives across the state, educate society about autism unmet needs, and to make New Jersey a national leader in these endeavors

The Amazingly Sensational Kids of Jamiyl and Tracy-Ann Samuels

New Jersey Autism Center of Excellence

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