Top 5 Ways to Embrace Autism Acceptance Month

Autism Acceptance Month is an opportunity for all of us to celebrate neurodiversity, amplify autistic voices, and commit to creating more inclusive spaces. Here at AbleNet, we understand the importance of supporting communication for all individuals and working to build a more inclusive community.

Check out these five meaningful ways to embrace and promote autism acceptance this month and beyond.

1. Listen to and Support Autistic Voices

One of the most important aspects of true acceptance is listening to the people within the autism community. Follow autistic advocates, writers, speakers, and content creators on social media platforms, subscribe to their newsletters, or read their books. Some influential voices and organizations include:

Autistic Advocates

• Andi Putt, Autistic SLP
• Kaelynn Partlow, Autistic Advocate
• Nicole Filippone, Autistic Advocate and Author

Autistic-Led Organizations

• Autistic Self Advocacy Network
• Autistic Girls Network

Remember the powerful phrase that has emerged from disability rights movements: “Nothing about us without us.” When learning about autism, prioritize the perspectives and lived experiences of autistic individuals.

2. Attend Neurodiversity-Affirming Trainings

Deepen your understanding of neurodiversity by participating in educational opportunities that embrace a strengths-based approach. Look for trainings and webinars that:

• Are developed with meaningful input from autistic individuals
• Focus on understanding and accommodating different neurotypes rather than “fixing” them
• Emphasize the value of neurodiversity in families, classrooms, workplaces, and communities
• Address sensory needs, communication differences, and other aspects of autistic experiences

Consider hosting a neurodiversity-affirming training for your team, school, or organization to spread awareness and build more supportive environments.

3. Connect with Local Groups and Organizations

Building community connections strengthens the support network for autistic individuals. Reach out to:

• Local autism support groups
• Neurodiversity-affirming therapists and educational consultants
• Disability rights organizations
• Community centers hosting sensory-friendly events
• Schools with inclusive programs and practices

These connections not only provide resources but also create opportunities for collaboration, advocacy, and meaningful participation for autistic individuals in your community.

4. Write Neurodiversity-Affirming Goals

Speech-language pathologists have a unique opportunity to champion neurodiversity-affirming practices through the goals they establish with autistic clients. Consider these approaches:

• Prioritize functional communication over speech, recognizing that effective communication comes in many forms
• Incorporate client-led interests into therapy sessions to increase engagement and build on intrinsic motivations
• Develop self-advocacy IEP goals that empower clients to express their communication preferences and sensory needs
• Focus on pragmatic skills that serve the client’s actual needs rather than imposing neurotypical social expectations or promoting masking.
• Emphasize the effectiveness rather than the mode of communication, validating AAC, sign language, typing, and other alternative forms
• Collaborate with autistic individuals to determine meaningful objectives that enhance their quality of life
• Measure progress based on increased communication autonomy and reduced communication frustration, not just speech production

When writing goals for your autistic clients, involve them in the process whenever possible, regardless of their communication method. Simple adjustments in your goal-writing approach can shift the therapeutic relationship from compliance-based to collaboration-based, honoring the neurodivergent perspective and promoting genuine communication development.

5. Create and Encourage Inclusive Environments

Acceptance means ensuring autistic individuals can fully participate in all aspects of life. To create inclusive environments:

• Offer sensory accommodations like quiet spaces, noise-canceling headphones, or flexible lighting
• Provide visual supports and clear expectations
• Ensure access to AAC tools and respect all forms of communication
• Establish predictable routines with preparation for transitions
• Celebrate and accommodate special interests and unique perspectives
• Adapt social expectations to be more inclusive and less demanding

Remember that inclusion isn’t about forcing autistic people to fit into neurotypical spaces—it’s about creating spaces where everyone can participate authentically.

Taking Action Beyond April

While Autism Acceptance Month provides a focused opportunity for awareness and education, true acceptance is a year-round commitment. We encourage you to incorporate these practices into your daily life, professional work, and community engagement.

What steps will you take toward creating a more neurodiversity-affirming world?

AbleNet is committed to providing accessible communication solutions that honor and support neurodivergent individuals. QuickTalker Freestyle™ is a flexible, robust speech device designed to meet the diverse communication needs of all individuals.