Speaker, Author, Autism Expert

Mary Harrison is a dedicated autism expert whose engaging speaking presentations empower families, educators, and students alike. She speaks to diverse audiences—including family groups, religious and school groups, educators, administrators, and non-profit organizations—sharing practical strategies that make a real difference.

Her groundbreaking book, Autism Grows Up… Then What?, tackles the challenges faced by individuals on the autism spectrum and offers time-tested methods to develop essential life skills, with a focus on fostering independence and enhancing quality of life.

Mary is a passionate advocate for children on the autism spectrum and their families.

 

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Autism Grows Up…
Then What

7 Keys to Preparing Your Child’s Transition From Childhood to Adulthood (without losing your mind)

Mary, like so many parents of children diagnosed with autism, had her plans for her son’s life up-ended. She learned first-hand that her son’s sensory issues, his problems in communicating and his lack of relational skills served as roadblocks that hid his natural talents and hindered his emotional and social development. But Mary also learned that with planning and perseverance many…

Video Library

How music can future proof your brain | Neil Moore | TEDxJacksonville
13:34
How music can future proof your brain | Neil Moore | TEDxJacksonville
Feed Two Birds with one Scone
02:02
Feed Two Birds with one Scone
The beginning of journey into education, love and understanding
02:22
The beginning of journey into education, love and understanding
One of the definitions of the word Tragedy
00:04
One of the definitions of the word Tragedy
You find useful in your life or maybe you’ll move on
03:07
You find useful in your life or maybe you’ll move on
Autism doesn’t mean that a child has to live a life of seclusion.
03:26
Autism doesn’t mean that a child has to live a life of seclusion.
Dance Party
00:38
Dance Party
Playing Hockey
00:58
Playing Hockey
Playing Piano
02:20
Playing Piano
Jam Session
04:05
Jam Session
Helping out at home
00:32
Helping out at home
Physical Therapy
00:19
Physical Therapy
Piano Lessons
01:46
Piano Lessons
Workout at the Gym
00:23
Workout at the Gym
Jigsaw Puzzles
00:36
Jigsaw Puzzles
At the Pool
00:23
At the Pool
Singing
00:36
Singing
Piano Lessons as a young boy
01:03
Piano Lessons as a young boy

About Mary Harrison

Mary Elizabeth Harrison, a mother who faced the complexities of autism firsthand, shares her journey, focusing on how planning, perseverance, and a deep understanding of the child’s unique challenges can make a world of difference. With a practical and heartfelt approach, Mary offers 7 key strategies to prepare your child for adulthood while maintaining your own well-being.
More about Mary…
{“As a Speech Pathologist, I recognize the need for a coordinated team effort in order to provide the best possible programs for individuals on the spectrum. Mary Harrison is a master of communication, coordination and education for families, schools, communities and all those involved with wanting to create a meaningful life for our special needs […]
55
Speech Pathologist, Author – Creative Coping for Caregivers
{“Mary’s book is a source of inspiration, not only for those of the community with special needs, but for ALL parents seeking guidance in helping their children navigate life’s path.”
55
Television News Anchor
{“Mary Harrison draws on both her wealth of wisdom and experience in writing her book. Her journey along with her son, Jewels is a testament to patience and possibility. She writes from a position of authenticity and commitment. Her book is an exceptional guide for parents, care providers, teachers and volunteers who seek to help […]
55
Founder, Simply Music Educational Program
{“Mary’s book provides informative common-sense strategies and offers hope and balance for families living with autism spectrum disorder.”
55
MSed, BCBA
{“Mary offers practical, time-tested strategies that empower parents, and especially parents of children with autism, to create a pathway that will help improve the quality of life for their children. Mary’s story offers hope and inspiration by encouraging parents to utilize their that they will need to live a fulfilling life as an adult”.
55
Children’s Writer, Parent/Educator, Community Volunteer
{“Mary Harrison is the expert that teaches and trains school/district- based professionals how to listen to students with disabilities and parents to over deliver and create life changing synergy and involvement. She is adept at mobilizing parents to work with not against schools for the benefit of their children, school and community.”
55
Inspirational Speaker, #1 Best Seller Author of Hey Teachers Don’t Quit and leading educational consultant
{“Autism Grows Up….Then What?” offers practical wisdom and heartfelt guidance for families raising children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Drawing from her decades long journey as a mother. A MUST READ for parents and caregivers seeking tangible strategies to support their child’s journey toward a fulfilling adulthood. It’s an invaluable resource for families facing this […]
55
Author of The Adventures of Max & Zoey – a book series for children and Quantum Edge
{“Mary… I feel as though I’ve known you forever… Your family changed my life… I agreed to be involved with the Friendship Circle because I knew it was the right thing to do. But after 5 minutes at your house, I knew that I could never go back.”
55
Friendship Circle Volunteer
{“As a parent of a young adult with autism who is about to exit the school system, Mary’s direct and honest assessment is spot on. It is imperative that parents’ involvement in a child diagnosed with autism goes beyond the checking of boxes when goals are achieved, and to ensure skills are maintained and generalized. […]
55
Parent

What others are saying about Mary Harrison

Jack Canfield

Co-author of “The Success Principles” and “Chicken Soup of the Soul” series
“Mary Harrison is doing an amazing amount of work helping parents of children with autism find a way to bring out their gifts and natural talents, so they can become independent by the time they are adults to become functioning members of society. She has all the skills, knowledge and experience to help you.”

James Malinchak

Author & Speaker, Featured on ABC’s Hit TV Show, “Secret Millionaire”
“Mary’s book offers valuable insights on working with an individual on the autism spectrum. This book offers hope and provides a roadmap of what is possible if the strategies are implemented! Mary truly cares about helping others and her ideas will make a positive difference in your life!”

Kevin Harrington

Original Shark on the hit TV Show, “Shark Tank” and inventor of the infomercial

“The techniques and policies Mary has created over 17 years place special emphasis on developing the unique strengths and skill sets of children with special needs as they mature into young adults. Mary’s strategies can achieve amazing results, like they have with her autistic son, who is currently thriving.”