<p><a target="_blank" href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/2117852/open_sms">Send us a text</a></p><p>Judge Sonny Bailey shares how she created the nation's only court dedicated to helping autistic youth stay out of the criminal justice system. </p><p>What began in 2018 as a quieter courtroom for one overwhelmed teen has evolved into an innovative program with a 90% success rate, recently recognized through Nevada legislation as the country's first official neurodiversity specialty court.<br><br>• Autism court began accidentally when officers brought in an overwhelmed teen who needed a quieter environment<br>• Program uses applied behavioral analysis and positive reinforcement instead of punishment<br>• Success looks different for each youth—from college preparation to simply learning not to punch walls<br>• Late diagnosis (some at age 16+) means many youth missed years of early intervention<br>• Court addresses entire family system through parent training and consistent approaches<br>• 90% success rate with over 100 graduates since program began<br>• Program started with minimal resources—"a box of fruit snacks and chips"<br>• New legislation will expand services to include other forms of neurodiversity<br>• Many autistic youth are in foster care due to family breakdowns and behavioral challenges<br>• Parents should immediately alert legal authorities about a child's autism to ensure proper accommodations<br><br>If you know anyone who would like to share their story, visit TonyMantor.com/Contact. </p><p>Tell everyone everywhere about Why Not Me? The World, the conversations we're having, and the inspiration our guests give to show you are not alone in this world.<br><br><br></p><p>https://tonymantor.com<br>https://Facebook.com/tonymantor<br>https://instagram.com/tonymantor<br>https://twitter.com/tonymantor<br>https://youtube.com/tonymantormusic<br>intro/outro music bed written by T. Wild<br>Why Not Me the World music published by Mantor Music (BMI)</p>