Sidekicks

Inspired by our founder Ron Suskind&s;s book (and now Academy-award nominated documentary) Life, Animated, Sidekicks is a personalized mobile app and online service dedicated to assisting neurologically distinct communities. As shown in Life, Animated, embracing the strong interests or affinities of a person with autism can unleash untapped capabilities and open the gates to emotional connection. Sidekicks empowers parents and professionals to connect with their kids on the autism spectrum by harnessing the strong, self-directed interests that are a defining feature of autism. We are building a mobile virtual companion or avatar, known as Sidekicks, that serves as a mixed-media communications and content delivery platform for the parents (Coaches) of children with autism (Heroes). The service uses the Heros affinity for films or, eventually, other content to help Coaches connect and communicate in transformative ways. Coaches are now able to use film and other content to reach, teach, and support their Heroes and help them achieve social, emotional and practical goals.