Autism Acceptance Month, formerly Autism Awareness Month, was started by the Autism Society of America in the early 1970's and began as a way to "promote autism awareness and assure that all affected by autism are able to achieve the highest quality of life possible" (Autism Society, n.d.). The Autism Society of America has recently moved from using the word "awareness" to "acceptance" as a way to cultivate recognition and ignite change. In a study found on the CDC website, as of 2106, 1 in 54 children under the age of 8 tested were on the Autism Spectrum. With the number increasing, it is important that we continue to bring awareness  and acceptance to autism.

According to the American Psychiatric Association, "ASD is a complex developmental condition that involves persistent challenges in social interaction, speech and nonverbal communication, and restricted/repetitive behaviors" (APA, 2018). Autism Spectrum Disorder includes, autistic disorder, pervasive developmental disorder not otherwise specified (PDD-NOS), and Asperger Syndrome. The severity of the symptoms is different for all people affected. While some might have less challenges, others may have more challenges that they will have to overcome.

Check out our special programs blog post to find out what we have coming up in April to help build an inclusive library environment. If you want to learn more, listed are some books available for check and some online resources for more information.

The Girl Who Thought in Pictures: The Story of Dr. Temple Grandin

by Julia Finley Mosca

A Friend for Henry

by Jenn Baliey

Rules

by Cynthia Lord

Uniquely Human: A Different Way of Seeing Autism

by Barry M. Prizan, PhD.

Autism society of America is dedicated to providing advocacy, education, information and referral, support and community at national, state and local levels.

Autism Speaks is another great resource for anyone wanting to gain more information on autism. Use their resource page to find services in your state.

Organization for Autism Research has free resources and information for families. They use an applied research method to answer questions and challenges that autism presents.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has a lengthy resource list for families that includes a guide to evidence based practice and help for families going through a new diagnosis.

American Psychiatric Association. (August 2018). What is autism spectrum disorder?. https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/autism/what-is-autism-spectrum-disorder

Autism Society of America. (n.d.). Autism acceptance month. https://www.autism-society.org/get-involved/national-autism-awareness-month/

Maenner, M.J., Shaw, K.A., Baio J., et al. (March 27, 2016). Prevalence of autism spectrum disorder among children aged 8 years — Autism and developmental disabilities monitoring network, 11 sites, United States, 2016. MMWR Surveillance Summaries 2020;69(No. SS-4):1–12. https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/69/ss/ss6904a1.htm?s_cid=ss6904a1_w