New Vibrant Storybook Celebrates Life Through Different Lens

“Oh Tal! Not Today” is a new picture storybook that embraces fresh perspectives.  Through its pages, families and educators alike are invited to embrace the beauty of doing things their own way. It celebrates the spirit of creativity, independence and seeing the world through a different lens.

The book  is written by Tal Anderson, an autistic actor, filmmaker, writer, and advocate of inclusion and authentic representation. She is known for her work in the Netflix series “Atypical” as “Sid” and as “Gia” in Amazon Studios’ “As We See It”.  The vibrant illustrations  that bring the story to life are illustrated by autistic artist Michael Richey White, known for his work on Netflix's Atypical and his book Little Hipsters. Their collaboration is a testament to the power of storytelling in creating understanding and kindness.

In this story, we meet Tal and her loyal cat, Winnie. Though Tal doesn't speak much and has a unique way of doing things, her vibrant imagination, creativity, and independence shine through.

As Tal's parents learn that things aren't always what they seem, true intentions come to light. Perfect for young readers, parents, and educators, this heartwarming story celebrates being different and doing things your own way!

Coming Soon: Followers of the Autism Today Foundation will enjoy a special offer on the hardcover 8½ x 11 edition, which includes a bookplate and a sticker, both signed by author Tal Anderson and illustrator Michael Richey White.

Autism from the Soul - The Odd Gift

Scott recounts how he and his wife Penni often played a game dreaming about winning a special gift, which turned out to be a real surprise when a representative from Yo-Basti manufacturing contacted them claiming they had won a gift.

Despite initial skepticism, they waited eagerly for the gift's arrival, but it encountered several mishaps during shipping, arriving damaged. However, with the help of Claudia, a representative from Yo-Basti, they learned to appreciate the gift, which turned out to be their son, Evan. 

Despite his disabilities and the challenges they faced, Evan brought immense joy to their lives, defying the odds. The story serves as a reminder to cherish unexpected blessings and find joy in all circumstances. 

Autism Acceptance Night at New Jersey NHL Game

The New Jersey Devils of the National Hockey League (NHL) are hosting a special Autism Acceptance Night on Monday March 31, 2025 when the Devils take on the Minnesota Wild.

Recognizing that crowding can be overwhelming for persons with Autism, there will be a special designated entrance, open 30-minutes prior to when the regular doors will be open.  Trained staff will be on hand at the special entrance.

A designated sensory room equipped with different fidgets will be available throughout the night at the Prudential Center, offering a safe spot for those who are part of the Autism community.  The room will feature low lighting, controlled temperature and calm music.  Sensory Kits will be provided in the sensory room and will also be available at Guest Services stations.  In addition, there will be lowered arena bowl/lighting effects and low noise introductions.

There’s special group pricing for the Autistic community and attendees will receive a free t-shirt. 

Autism from the Soul - Mattie & Bee's Story

Bee’s son Mattie was diagnosed with Asperger’s syndrome at age 2.  She took it upon herself to get educated in the intricate details of Asperger’s Sydrome as it became quickly apparent that this was her purpose. 

They stopped at nothing and worked with doctors and specialists throughout the greater Boston area.  She attended conferences, seminars and consumed hundreds of books on the topic of Asperger’s Syndrome and Autism Spectrum Disorders.

Mattie went to preschool, but was met with a teacher and learning environment that did not do well by Mattie.  He was on sensory overload and he was responded to it by shutting down.

The family took several risks in improving Mattie’s life, and they learned that if you have a child with special needs, then you are a family with special needs and you need to accept it, understand it and embrace it.  Mattie continues to thrive.

Autistic Soccer Kids from USA Making History in Japan

Join us in supporting an enthusiastic soccer team of 14 autistic children from Miami as they travel to Hiroshima, Japan this April 2025 to compete in the prestigious Genius Cup!

As the first-ever US participants in this esteemed international event, the Autism Soccer squad is thrilled to showcase their gifts, strengths, talents and spirit of their incredible athletes on a global stage.  The international event conveys the importance of peace to the world through soccer, making friends and spending enjoyable time together.

Along with their parents, the team will arrive in Hiroshima on March 30^th.  They'll also venture into sightseeing in Hiroshima and surrounding areas. The Japan Development Support Soccer Association (JDSA) is the host organization. They provide a unique soccer training program tailored to children with developmental disabilities, with the philosophy “Consider disabilities as individuality through soccer”.

Autism Soccer is an organization founded in 2012 by Oscar Amuz.  The organization arises from awareness and solidarity in the face of the lack of spaces for the integration and development of people with autism both within the framework of American society and worldwide.

Join the Autism Today Foundation in supporting this special team.

What is Autism Today? Watch this video and learn more.

Did you know that in 1996 1:100,000 children were diagnosed with Autism?  Today that ratio is to 1:44 children. Having the tools, supports and resources are vital for our communities.  Watch this video and learn more.

Quote of the Day

“Autism doesn’t have to define a person. Artists with autism are like anyone else: They define themselves through hard work and individuality.” – Adrienne Bailon

Show Your Support! Shop the Autism Today store

With the re-launch of our Shopify store comes a new line of clothing and accessories that allow customers to show their support and spread the word of our incredible cause. 

100% of the proceeds from every purchase go directly to supporting Autism Today Foundation initiatives and our valued partners.

Every item you buy makes a difference in the lives of neurodiverse individuals, including people with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).

Help us with our research

Your support helps us with our autism and neurodiversity research towards effective health interventions, education for sensory and social skills training, job support and learning through art and music.

Our Mission: To provide a spectrum of solutions that empowers those impacted by autism and neurodiversity to be better seen, heard, understood, valued and appreciated for who they are and to showcase their strengths, gifts and talents so the world can see that greatness exists in everyone.