Armed with questions about everything from education to waivers, almost 100 parents turned out for the annual Central Virginia Autism Expo at Sandusky Middle School Thursday evening.

For the first time, the expo featured service providers from Lynchburg and Amherst, Appomattox, Bedford and Campbell counties and breakout sessions to teach parents about the resource available in the area and help them connect with experts.

In each session teachers, parents and paraprofessionals had the chance to get in-depth information on some of the biggest challenges faced today by those working with children with autism communication, transitioning between the schools and life after high school.

Its important for people to come to these things, saidBedfords Thomas McKean, one of the evenings featured speakers. They need to know what is going on if they are going to be able to help their child.

McKean, an author and well-known public speaker who frequently talks about his experience with autism, was on hand Thursday to tell parents how he went from living at home to living on his own.

McKean said his transition was a little rough at first, learning to cook and clean, but now hes no different from anyone else he sets his alarm each night and hates paying bills each month.

McKean refers to autism as a fascinating yet annoying disorder because of the many ways it can manifest in individuals. There is no treatment that can help all children with autism.

McKean said, as with any child, there is no set age for allowing a child with autism to be on their own. What matters most in determining if a child is ready are their goals, abilities, skills and supports.

Youths with autism need a circle of friends and people they trust, said McKean. It helps ease the fear and anxiety they so commonly experience.

There are a lot of books out there about parenting a child with autism, said Christine Trepanitis, but hearing about the experience firsthand on Thursday left her virtually speechless.

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Autism expo provides parents with resources