April is Autism Acceptance Month
This April, the Autism Society Maine #CelebratesDifferences for Autism Acceptance Month. Everyday, we work to create connections, empowering everyone in the Autism community to live fully. Be the connection this April to spreading awareness for early diagnosis, promoting inclusion in the greater community, and practicing acceptance in everyday life.
Proclamation from the President of the United States
“America was founded on the idea that all people are created equal and deserve to be treated equally throughout their lives,” read a statement from the White House. “Today, we champion the equal rights and dignity of the millions of Americans on the autism spectrum, and we celebrate the immense contributions of all neurodiverse people, whose perspectives and experiences make America a richer Nation.” Read more: A Proclamation on World Autism Acceptance Day, 2024 | The White House
What is Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)? Autism Spectrum Disorder is a complex, lifelong developmental condition that typically appears during early childhood and can impact a person’s social skills, communication, relationships, and self-regulation. The Autism experience is different for everyone. It is defined by a certain set of behaviors and is often referred to as a “spectrum condition” that affects people differently and to varying degrees. While there is currently no known single cause of Autism, early diagnosis helps a person receive resources that can support the choices and opportunities needed to live fully.
Learn more about Autism
One in 36 children are diagnosed with Autism. As the fastest-growing developmental disability in the US, you or someone you know and love is a part of the Autism community. Be the connection this April by supporting the Autism Society of Maine in our quest to educate, advocate, and support the Autism community.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention “Learn the signs. Act Early”
Please Note: This page will be updated frequently during the Month of April so keep coming back!
Let us know if you have an event that we can add: susan@asmonline.org ASM: 1-800-273-5200
Events & Fundraisers
ASM Online Calendar
Check out what is happening in April and all year long!
Fun events, Autism learning and informational opportunities.
See Calendar Here!
Walk For Autism At Two Locations
April 21st – Riverbank Park, Westbrook
April 28th – 81 Railroad St., Bangor Waterfront Park
Each location will be a unique, energizing and supportive environment. Plans are in the works for games, entertainment, prizes, and much more!
Learn more and register (before April 5th to get your t-shirt!)
Facebook Fundraisers
Do you want to create a Facebook fundraiser for ASM? It’s easy! Just go to the ASM fundraiser link or to the tab or your own Facebook page to get started!
This is a fun way to host an online fundraiser and share your friends and family!
Heart Campaign
Businesses or Agencies – sell puzzle piece paper hearts for $1 each to your customers or clients. They would put their name on the heart and your agency could display them.
Call ASM if you would like to participate at 1-800-273-5200.
We will provide you with the hearts and a shout out Facebook to all businesses or agencies that participate.
Learn more here
Resources Explaining Autism
General Resources
World Autism Month Miniseries Kennedy Krieger Institute’s Center for Autism Services, Science and Innovation – Free!
World Autism Month Miniseries. Each Thursday throughout the month of April, a new virtual session will be released at 12 noon (EST).
- Understanding Autism Autism Society of America
- Autism Spectrum Disorders: Centers for Disease Control
For Kids
- Kids Health: a website that explains autism in simple language for kids.
- Kohl’s Autism Awareness Community Hub is a virtual community containing resources for children with ASD, family and community members.
- Sesame Street and Autism “See Amazing in All Children” a nationwide initiative aimed at communities with children ages 2 to 5.
Printables
- ASM Brochure Happenings & Programs
- Autism Acceptance Month Flyer Autism Society of Maine
- Brochures on Autism Autism Society of Maine
- ASM 101 Flyer Autism Society of Maine
- Autism Brochure Autism Society of America
Kits For Kids
Educators, would you like to have a presentation done in your classroom around autism? Teaching kids about autism will help them better understand their classmates who might appear odd, or different. The Autism Society of Maine is offering to send an Autism Information Specialist to your school and present to your class, second grade through eighth grade.
Depending on the grade level the presentation can be anywhere from 20 minutes to 30 minutes. ASM will provide materials. Reach out to ASM infospec@asmonline.org if you’re interested.
Books For Everyone Regarding Autism
NEW!
The Organization for Autism Research curated library has autism-related titles for parents, self-advocates, professionals, and more. https://i.mtr.cool/njewphriyx
The ASM Lending Library is a collection of books, cd’s,dvd’s regarding Autism. We can send to you at no cost, library material and even give you return postage to send back to us! Need help picking out a title? Let us know what you are looking for and we can suggest a title for you!