Did you know April is Autism Acceptance Month? 

During April, we also recognize April 2nd as World Autism Day. World Autism Day seeks to provide awareness about Autism Spectrum Disorder and decrease the stigma around Autism and encourage members of the United Nations to take appropriate measures to support individuals diagnosed with Autism. 

Last year, The Autism Society of America officially announced the shift from Autism Awareness Month to Autism Acceptance Month to promote acceptance in the Autism Community. During Autism Acceptance Month, we are reminded to display warmth, empathy, and concern toward all individuals and families who live with an Autism Spectrum Disorder. 

Each year, World Autism Day has a specific theme, and this year’s theme centers around providing inclusive quality education for All. Because the COVID-19 school-building closures deeply impacted many individuals living with an Autism Spectrum Disorder, this year's theme pays close attention to the supports and services aimed at improving educational outcomes for those living on the Spectrum. In addition, it helps to highlight the disproportionate effect online education had on students diagnosed with Autism. 

What is Autism Spectrum Disorder? 

Autism is classified as a spectrum disorder because it affects individuals differently and to varying degrees. Autism is characterized in the DMS-V as “persistent differences in communication, interpersonal relationships, and social interactions across different environments” and “repetitive and restrictive behavior, patterns, activities, and interests.” Some typical characteristics associated with Autism Spectrum Disorder include: 

·      Nonverbal or atypical speech patterns

·      Difficulty understanding nonverbal communication or social cues

·      Repeating sounds or phrases (also called echolalia) 

·      Repetitive movements 

·      Difficulty making or keeping friends

·      Difficulty with transitions or new routine 

·      Rigid and intense interests 

·      Extreme sensitivity or lower sensitivity to sensory stimuli (i.e. loud      noises, lights, clothing textures) 

In 2021, the CDC reported that Autism Spectrum Disorders affect 1 in 44 children in the United States. However, there is no known cause for Autism. It is important to note that Vaccines, parenting, or nutrition do not cause autism. 

Early intervention is critically important in supporting healthy development in those diagnosed with Autism. Early intervention can improve learning, communication, social skills, and brain development. 

How can you support Autism Acceptance Month? 

·   Visit the Autism Speaks website and take the pledge to support people with Autism Spectrum Disorder. You commit to creating a safe and accepting environment for all individuals you encounter on the spectrum by taking the oath. In addition, you will receive free information, resources, and tools to advocate for those in your community living with Autism. To take the pledge today by visiting: 

 https://www.autismspeaks.org/world-autism-month#pledge

·      Join the Kindness Campaign and encourage friends, family, and coworkers to join you! The Kindness Campaign promotes acceptance, understanding, and inclusion and identifies ways you can implement daily acts of kindness to people living on the spectrum. To join, visit: https://act.autismspeaks.org/site/SPageServer?

pagename=kindness_campaign

·   Read books that feature characters or Authors with Autism. Below are some books that you should consider:

o   The Someday Birds by Sally J. Plia 

o   Planet Earth is Blue by Nicole Panteleakos

o   The Many Mysteries of the Finkel Family by Sarah Kapi

o   A Kind of Spark by Elle McNicoll