Thank you for reading this newsletter. Please forward this email to someone who would like to receive it and encourage them to join our mailing list. We appreciate your feedback regarding our Spectrum newsletter and encourage you to take this quick survey - please click here.
Summer has a gentle way of slowing us down—in the best way.
Whether it’s the warmth of the sun, the smell of barbecues, or the sound of kids laughing outside, these little moments remind us to pause and soak it all in. As we ease into this season, it’s a wonderful time to celebrate the joy, resilience, and everyday victories that come with supporting our autistic loved ones. From shared laughter to quiet understanding, every connection matters. Here’s to a summer filled with sunshine, deeper connections, and the kind of memories that make your heart smile. Warmly,
Karen
Lights, Camera, Autism Watch this inspirational interview with Allison Robertson - star of The Accountant
2!
Join me as autistic actor Allison Robertson shares her inspiring journey from a Texas choir class to starring in The Accountant
2. She takes on the important role of Justine, a non-speaking autistic character who brings depth and authenticity to the story. In this heartfelt interview, she opens up about breaking into Hollywood, embracing her autistic identity, working
alongside Ben Affleck, and the power of perseverance in the film industry. Don’t miss her incredible story of resilience, passion, and finding her true calling in the world of acting. The Accountant 2 - now on Prime - is generating buzz not only for its action-packed storyline but also for its commitment to authentic autism representation.
Social Media We’re on TikTok — in short, powerful videos!
The Autism Today Foundation is now on TikTok, sharing quick, impactful videos packed with inspiration, expert insights, and practical autism resources.
These short clips are easy to watch, easy to share, and made to support and inform. Follow us, like, and share to help spread awareness and build a stronger autism community: @autismtodayfoundation
Volunteers Meet the Heart Behind Autism Today
At Autism Today Foundation, we’re powered by more than 60 amazing volunteers from around the world. From writers and editors to designers, advisors, and social media champions—they bring a rich mix of talents, cultures, and lived experiences to our mission.
It all began with our very first volunteer, Jalal (pictured here), whose dedication helped lay the foundation for what Autism Today is today. Jalal is now studying to become a doctor in Australia, and we couldn’t be prouder.
We wish him every success in the world! Thanks to incredible people like Jalal—and so many others—we're able to reach more families, share more stories, and build a brighter future for the autism community. Interested in joining our volunteer team? We’d love to connect with you!
Bilingual Benefits for Children with Autism A recent UCLA study found that children with autism who grow up in multilingual homes may develop
stronger focus, flexibility, and communication skills. These kids also showed fewer repetitive behaviors—suggesting that speaking more than one language might offer unique developmental advantages. It’s exciting evidence that multilingual environments can support not just language
growth, but emotional and cognitive growth too.
Research Study aligns with real concerns and voices
A study analyzing over 700,000 Reddit posts is offering researchers an unprecedented look into the lived experiences of autistic individuals. Using natural language processing, the team identified recurring themes in these conversations—ranging from music, food, and friendships to coping strategies and emotional challenges. What stood out? These posts didn’t dwell on clinical symptoms. Instead, they reflected a strong sense of community, personal interests, and the everyday realities of navigating the world as an autistic person. The discussions often celebrated neurodiversity and
different ways of thinking, while also revealing the emotional toll of masking - when individuals feel pressured to hide their autistic traits to fit in. Rather than pathologizing autism, the study calls for clinical approaches that align more closely
with the real concerns and voices of autistic people. When we center lived experiences, we move toward a world that values authenticity, support, and true inclusion.
Latest news around the world Major $50 Million Gift to Launch Lurie Autism InstitutePhiladelphia Eagles owner Jeffrey Lurie has donated $50 million to establish the
Lurie Autism Institute in Philadelphia, a global hub uniting scientists, clinicians, families, and students to accelerate autism research and care - Click here Gut–Brain Connection in
AutismA new study found children with autism often have different gut microbiome profiles—specifically lower levels of kynurenate, which may affect sensory processing and emotional regulation, reinforcing the potential role of gut health in ASD - Click here Promising Stem Cell “Mini-Brains”Researchers have developed stem-cell–derived brain organoids to model autism in the lab,
showing that the experimental drug NitroSynapsin may help restore neuron balance—a hopeful step toward new treatments - Click here
Autism Family Mediation Considering separation? Court is stressful. Mediation is different. Here's why more families are choosing a peaceful alternative. If you're considering separation—or already navigating that process—you may be wondering what path is right for your family.
At Ultimate Mediation, they believe in preserving relationships, protecting children’s peace, and reducing stress for everyone involved.
Here’s what makes mediation different:
- Neutral & child-centered: Our focus is always your child’s well-being
- Led by a seasoned expert: Ronald Caissie brings 30+ years of compassionate mediation experience
- Far more affordable:
Mediation costs about 10% of what legal action would
- Purpose-driven: Session fees support the Autism Today Foundation
Plus, you can begin with a free initial session to see if it’s a good fit.
No pressure. No courtroom. Just a better way
forward.
Books Little Rainman - By Karen Simmons, Founder of Autism Today
Little Rainman offers a window into the mind of a child with autism, told in his own words and illustrated with vivid, picture-based storytelling. Recommended by Dr. Temple Grandin for its honest portrayal of visual thinking, this gently illustrated book helps readers—kids and adults alike—understand how a child on the spectrum experiences sights, sounds, emotions, and the world around him . Little Rainman was one of the first of its kind—and remains a beloved, timeless classic in autism literature. Whether you’re sharing it with your own family or using it to help others understand neurodiversity, Little Rainman continues to inspire empathy, acceptance, and understanding.
Share your story, image or video here. We'd love to hear from you! |
|
|
