(LITTLE EGG HARBOR, NJ) -- The Ocean County Library Little Egg Harbor Branch is pleased to present a discussion, “Autism, Early Childhood Development, and Early Literacy,” on Tuesday, February 7. The talk will be led by postdoctoral fellows Ashlee Flanagan and Katie Ramsey of the Center for Autism Research (CAR) at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. The event begins at 6:30pm.

Participants will become informed about the facility, possible signs of autism or developmental delays, and early childhood development. A question-and-answer period will follow the presentation.

The Center for Autism Research coordinates study of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and supports individuals with ASD and their families, aiming to develop effective treatments by identifying underlying causes.

A Center of Emphasis since 2008, CAR has generated valuable discoveries in genetics and brain imaging, and continues to develop social skills-oriented autism interventions. 

The presentation is part of OCL’s Milestones in Neurodiversity & Literacy to Grow program, providing literacy-based services for the neurodiverse community, from birth to age five, through a Library Services and Technology Act 2022 (LSTA) grant administered by the New Jersey State Library, an affiliate of Thomas Edison State University.

LSTA 22 funds are awarded to library projects that address literacy needs including, but not limited to, early literacy, family literacy, adult literacy, digital literacy, and financial and English language learning activities. Awarded projects are designed to provide training or other literacy-focused support or activities for adults and/or children. 

Funding for LSTA 22 grants is made possible by the Institute of Museum and Library Services, with the purpose of addressing literacy needs and supporting literacy projects across the state.

Please register at www.theoceancountylibrary.org/events to attend this free program. For more information, visit the Branch at 290 Mathistown Road or call (609) 294-1197.