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Dear Friends, We’re really excited to share a sneak peek of our brand new Autism
Directory, created together with CircaThera to help families, individuals, and professionals find trusted supports and services more easily. It’s almost ready, and we hope it becomes a go-to resource you’ll come back to often. As we move through May, we are also thinking
about all the incredible mother figures and caregivers who give so much every day, and recognizing Mental Health Month as a simple reminder to take care of ourselves and each other, especially within the autism and neurodivergent community. Thank you for being part of this community and for all the care and support you share.
Coming Soon: Take a Sneak Peek at Our Autism Directory
We’re really excited to share a sneak peek of our brand new Autism Directory, created
together by CircaThera and Autism Today to help families, individuals, and
professionals find trusted supports and services more easily. It’s not quite finished yet, but we hope you’ll take a look - and keep coming back as it continues to grow. For a long time, we’ve heard the same thing from families, individuals, and providers alike. There’s plenty of
information out there, but finding the right support can still feel overwhelming. This directory has been thoughtfully created to make it easier to navigate and find what you need without all the extra searching. Our hope is that this becomes your go-to
space you can come back to whenever you need guidance or direction. Whether you’re a family member, an individual seeking support, or a provider looking to connect, the Autism Directory is here to help make those connections clearer, more accessible, and a lot more manageable.
Love in Action: Celebrating Moms in Our Community
May is a special time to recognize and celebrate mothers and mother figures, especially within the autism community where their love, advocacy, and resilience shine in so many meaningful ways. With Mother's Day around the corner, we’re taking a moment to honor the everyday moments, the quiet strength, and the unwavering support they bring to their families.
Mental Health and the Neurodivergent Experience: Understanding, Supporting, and Thriving
Mental health looks different for everyone, especially within the autism and neurodivergent community. While many individuals navigate challenges such as burnout, masking, and sensory overwhelm, there are also meaningful ways to build support, understanding, and resilience. With the right environments and awareness,
well-being becomes more accessible and sustainable. Read the full article to explore how mental health can be supported through both reflection and practical strategies.
Introducing Little Rainman Too! Autism Through the Eyes of My Child
We’re offering a free sample of Little Rainman Too! - a book that takes autism understanding one important step further. While the
original Little Rainman helped readers observe autism from the outside, this book invites you inside. The story is told in Jonathan’s own voice, sharing what his world truly feels like - the sensory overload, social confusion, comfort in
routines, and the joy he finds in the things he loves. Readers often tell me, “This helped me understand.” That’s exactly why this book exists.
A Family Affair of Upcoming Books!
The inspiration continues! In addition to Little Rainman Too!, keep an eye out for two exciting new releases from Karen’s family - her son Jonathan’s uplifting book Honesty Quest and her sister Susan’s
heartfelt Picturing Gratitude. These meaningful projects reflect the same spirit of growth, authenticity, and celebration that shines throughout the Autism Today community.
Better Flights Ahead for Neurodiverse Travelers
Air travel can feel like a lot, especially for autistic and neurodivergent travelers, but there’s some really encouraging progress happening. More airlines and airports are stepping up with thoughtful supports like sensory rooms, practice runs, and trained staff who understand how to help. In this article, we walk
through simple tips and highlight some of the programs making a real difference. It’s worth a quick read if you’re planning a trip or just want to know what supports are out there.
Meet Karen’s AI Protégé: Support, Reimagined
Artificial Intelligence is showing up in more and more places - and it’s beginning to offer meaningful support within the autism community too. From tools that assist with communication and daily routines to quick access to helpful information, AI is opening new doors for individuals, families, and educators.
One of the things I’m especially excited about is my new AI Protégé, built on the Apex Replicant platform, which allows you to ask questions and receive guidance shaped by the insights I’ve gathered over many years of working alongside this
community. If you’re curious, I invite you to explore it for FREE!
While technology will never replace human connection, it can be a helpful tool - making support just a little more accessible when it’s needed most.
Sensory Strategies from Occupational Therapists
Sensory experiences can feel really overwhelming for many autistic individuals, and occupational therapists are great at helping find simple, practical ways to bring more calm and balance into the day. Things like softer lighting, deep pressure (like hugs or weighted blankets), movement breaks, or even small fidgets can make a big difference in how someone feels. It’s often about small adjustments that
help the nervous system feel more settled and supported. The goal is really just to help each person feel more comfortable, regulated, and able to take on their day with a bit more ease.
Volunteers Help Us Build a Brighter Future - One Volunteer at a Time
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.
Thanks to our incredible volunteers, 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!
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