April is Autism Acceptance Month–an annual event dedicated to promoting understanding and acceptance for individuals with autism. At PS Academy, we believe that compassionate acceptance is key to recognizing your child’s potential for exceptionality, every day of the year. That’s why we’ve created a list of 5 supportive ways everyone can promote autism acceptance, no matter what month it is. Ready to look past the label and focus on the able? Let’s jump in.

1. Challenge Your Assumptions

Learning more about neurodiversity and the perspectives of individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder is a great way to practice autism acceptance. Fixed ideas about what autism looks like prevent this. We invite you to challenge your assumptions and keep an open mind–you just may be surprised by what you learn!

2. Donate & Advocate

Donating sensory-friendly toys and materials to local schools, community centers, and libraries is a fantastic way to embrace autism acceptance. Items like craft supplies, modeling clay, sensory bins, and fidget toys can go a long way in making an experience more accessible for those with autism and other sensory-processing challenges. 

Advocating for autism-friendly experiences is another way you can show support for the autism community. Spark a powerful conversation by asking local businesses how they can provide a better experience for individuals on the autism spectrum. Some businesses, like museums, ballparks, or theaters, may be able to offer reserved hours for sensory-friendly events. 

3. Diversify Your Feed

What better way to learn about the power of neurodiversity than straight from the source? Following creators with autism or autism podcasts allows those with firsthand experience to have the floor. Amplifying the voices of people with autism and their loved ones is crucial to fostering acceptance–we’ve even got a few podcast recommendations to help you get started. 

4. Create An Inclusive Environment

Children with autism deserve to be included in the milestones of childhood. Whether it’s a playdate or a birthday party, there are several ways you can make a difference by creating an inclusive environment. Next time you send an invite, consider what you can do to make the experience more comfortable for everyone. This can look like offering a special sensory-friendly play station or party favors, a variety of food options, or reserving a quiet, safe space to retreat to. These small differences can have a huge impact and ensure that no child is left out of the fun.

5. Offer Your Time

If you know of a family who is struggling with the sometimes difficult demands of having a child with autism, consider ways you can practice compassionate acceptance by offering your time. It’s as simple as saying, “I have an extra hour or two this week. What can I do to help?” Small acts of kindness, like helping cook dinner one night a week, running errands, or offering to help carpool can be a big help for parents who are navigating the spectrum. 

If you love someone with autism, never underestimate the power of quality time. Spend time learning what they’re interested in, what their hobbies are, and understanding how they see the world. Individuals with autism want to feel accepted and included just like everyone else. Remember–the human connection is a magical experience for all when we see beyond the labels and celebrate our differences!

To learn more about PS Academy Arizona’s personalized programs, get in touch with one of our enrollment specialists today.