April is Autism Acceptance Month, formally known as Autism Awareness Month.  The term “awareness” changed to “acceptance” in hopes of not only providing more education, but to promote understanding, respect and acceptance of individuals with autism.  While awareness is still important, advocacy is now moving towards celebrating neurodiversity, accepting autism and recognizing that the human brain works in different ways! 

What is Autism?

Autism, or Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), is a neurodevelopmental condition that creates challenges in social communication and interaction.  Folks with ASD can also display repetitive behaviors, strong interests in certain topics/activities and sensory sensitivities. Overall, ASD influences how people experience and interact with the world.  The term “spectrum” is used as there are differences in level of everyday functioning between people, where some may need more support in their daily lives where others can live independently.  

Why Acceptance Matters

Despite growing knowledge, many autistic individuals still face misunderstandings and barriers, such as educational challenges, bullying, limited job opportunities and social stigma. Awareness opens the door to education, but acceptance builds inclusive communities.  Autism acceptance is beneficial for those with ASD as it helps to improve self-esteem and mental health.  The acceptance empowers those with ASD to embrace uniqueness, and reduces anxiety/depression the more they are accepted.  It also encourages inclusivity in schools and workplaces, providing the support needed and understanding differences between people.  For example, given that those with ASD have struggles with communication, having an understanding of this would help someone understand that they aren’t communicating because they are rude, but they have a disability.  

How You Can Support Autism Awareness & Acceptance

• Educate Yourself and Others: Read books and articles about autism, especially by autistic authors. Learning directly from the community helps avoid harmful myths and better learning experience on how they experience the world. 
• In the Classroom: allow for sensory breaks, normalize stimming behaviors (hand flapping, rocking back and forth), support executive functioning, have clear, visual schedules and instructions, and having a sensory-friendly environment. 

• In Therapy: Provide a calming and sensory-safe environment, incorporate special interests (if appropriate),  and embrace ASD as an identity over a disorder.   
• In the Workplace: Having multiple options for communication, having clear communication and expectations, offering a mentor to new employees, and offering flexible work environments and schedules.