Today kicks off the first day of Autism Awareness/Autism Acceptance Month.

And we are so excited to once again honor it with the community. 

As you know, this month of recognition may be different than in years past due to the new coronavirus protocols. While last year Quadrant had the opportunity to volunteer, shop at autism-run businesses, and even organize an autism friendly baseball game for our city in the summer; this year, we’re staying indoors. 

But that doesn’t diminish the significance of this important month of awareness/acceptance. Whether you light it up blue, celebrate differences, or anything else, the important thing is to spread knowledge about autism spectrum disorder.  And, of course, to be kind. 

Wondering how you can get involved? Here are some ideas! Have a way that you’re showing support? Let us know! Comment below or tag us on social media.

1. Find a new book

Let’s be honest, we’re doing a lot of reading while we’re home all day. Why not try a new book about a character with autism? Here’s a list of 30 children’s books about ASD, for kids of various ages, to check out.

2. Find a new show

There have been a handful of shows and movies in the past few years featuring characters with autism. Some of which are played by actual actors on the spectrum. Everything’s Gonna Be Okay on Freeform/Hulu and Atypical on Netflix are a few popular examples.

(Did you know the artist behind all of Sam’s drawings on Atypical is actually on the spectrum too? Check out this article).

3. Go on a virtual run

There are a lot of runs/walks that usually take place in April to raise support for different autism-centric organizations. Fortunately, some of these have turned into virtual runs! Instead of canceling the event, participants can run on their own, or with their own quarantine group, and share their experience on social media. 

Here’s an example of a virtual run that’s supporting the Organization for Autism Research. 

4. Support a business run by people with autism

The Mighty came up with a great list of businesses run by people on the autism spectrum. Take a deeper dive into which ones resonate with you and who’s delivering.

Some of our favorites include The Chocolate Spectrum and It’s Ians Arts!  

5. Do something kind

The world recognizes autism awareness every April, but we know it’s important to recognize autism every day. So let’s do something kind this month, and the next, and keep it going for our loved ones.

Autism Speaks started a Year of Kindness campaign to encourage people to “create a kinder, more inclusive world.” You can take an actual pledge on their website if you want to participate.

While COVID-19 might have us indoors this year, there’s still a lot we can do to show our support this April.

If you have a way that you’re recognizing the month- let us know! Comment below or tag us on social media.