Dear Friends, I want to take a moment to thank each of you for the time, heart, and
dedication you bring to Autism Today. Your efforts help us share meaningful resources, uplifting stories, and supportive connections with families around the world. Together, you are making a real difference. As we continue to grow, we’re also looking to strengthen our social
media team. If you - or someone you know - would enjoy helping share positive, informative autism content online, we would love to hear from you. Every small contribution helps us reach and support even more people. Thank you again for being such an important part of this
community. Your kindness and commitment truly inspire me. Warmly,
Karen
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This month, we’re sharing tips on sensory-friendly ways to navigate celebrations, thoughtful strategies for transitioning routines, and stories that highlight the creativity, resilience, and strength of the autism community around the world. Every story, every voice, and every approach matters because inclusion isn’t about fitting into a mold - it’s about making space for everyone to thrive. Thank
you for being part of our community. I hope this newsletter inspires new ways to celebrate, connect, and embrace your unique perspective.
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.
Dr. Temple Grandin wrote: “This book
gives a clear picture of what it is like to be autistic. It will help parents, teachers, and professionals better understand the autistic mind.”
I encourage you to spend a few quiet minutes with Jonathan’s story. The full book will be available soon, and I look
forward to sharing it with you.
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.
Smooth Transitions: Making Daylight Saving Easier for Autistic Individuals
As Daylight Saving Time approaches, even a one-hour clock change can affect sleep and daily routines - especially for autistic individuals who thrive on predictability. With gentle preparation and flexibility, families, educators, and caregivers can
help make the transition smoother and less stressful. Helpful tips for a smoother transition: - Adjust sleep gradually: Shift bedtime and wake-up time by 10–15 minutes starting about
a week before the change.
- Shift meals and activities: Move daily routines slightly earlier or later to match the new schedule.
- Keep routines consistent: Maintain familiar steps in morning and bedtime routines.
- Use visual or written
supports: Visual schedules or reminders can reduce uncertainty.
- Talk about the change ahead of time: Use clear, simple language to prepare everyone.
- Use light strategically: Morning sunlight and dimmer evening lighting can help regulate sleep.
- Allow extra flexibility: Expect an adjustment period and give yourself (and others) grace.
We love sharing stories that celebrate strengths and creative expression across the spectrum. We're inspired by the Autism Art
Expo hosted by HANDS in Autism at Indiana University—an uplifting event that highlights how art can help autistic individuals communicate, connect, and shine. The Expo brings together artists, families, educators, and communities to
celebrate diverse perspectives through painting, digital media, poetry, and more. It’s a powerful reminder that creativity can open doors to confidence, understanding, and inclusion.
Autistic Adults Suicide Prevention Toolkit
Recently, La Trobe University (Australia) launched a world-first, neuro-affirming suicide prevention
toolkit designed for autistic adults. Traditional mental health tools often miss warning signs, but this toolkit - co-designed with autistic adults - helps professionals recognize risk, adapt screening, and address burnout, masking, and sensory overload. Training takes just a couple of hours, with screenings in minutes, showing how small efforts can make a big difference. It’s a powerful reminder that progress comes from listening to lived experience. Learn more by following the link below.
St. Patrick’s Day Can Look Different for Everyone - Here’s How to Make It Yours St. Patrick’s Day can mean different things to different people.
While some may enjoy the energy and tradition, others may experience sensory strain, social fatigue, or feel disconnected from the celebration altogether. We recognize that participation looks different for everyone. Celebration can be adapted, scaled back, or approached in quieter ways
that feel more manageable. Read the full article to discover thoughtful, sensory-aware ways to engage with St. Patrick’s Day at your own pace.
Celebrating Authentic Voices Aditi’s Inspiring Story from India
In this video, we were so inspired by Aditi Sowmyanarayan, a neurodivergent writer and autism advocate from Bangalore, India, as she shared how she’s helping change the way the world understands autism.
Hearing her heartfelt insights and learning why authentic stories and diverse voices in the autism community matter so much really stayed with me. Her message is so uplifting and empowering - if you’re curious about autism, inclusion, or just love thoughtful perspectives that inspire, this video is definitely worth a
watch!
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!
Family Raising Twins with Profound Autism A moving story from Ayer, Massachusetts follows a family raising 9-year-old twin boys with
profound autism.
Rather than focusing only on challenges, the story highlights joyful moments, deep parent-child connection, and the love that frames caregiving - showing everyday resilience and the richness of family life. There’s also an emerging conversation about how society might better recognize and support people with profound needs.
Learn, Connect, Be Inspired - Upcoming Yakinar Webinar!
If you’re looking for a warm and insightful webinar to deepen your understanding of autism, this upcoming Yakinar is definitely worth attending. You’ll hear from Robert J. Bernstein and Stephen Shore as they share real experiences, meaningful conversation, and practical insights that can make a difference for individuals, families, and professionals alike. Watch for details coming soon!
Plans are being made for a unique event highlighting the creative talents of neurodivergent individuals interested in joining the film industry. Stay
tuned for details about this event.
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