Autism Awareness Month

Autism Acceptance Month starts with World Autism Awareness Day on April 2 and continues throughout April.

The theme for World Autism Acceptance Month in 2025 is “Celebrate Differences.” It encourages us to see that each person is unique and their differences are a normal part of life. Instead of thinking of autism as a condition that needs to be fixed, we should celebrate the differences autism brings.

This month is all about autism acceptance, a movement that promotes understanding and supporting autistic people. It’s not just simply raising awareness—it’s about taking action to build understanding, promote inclusion, and create supportive environments for them.

Learn more about World Autism Awareness Day here.

World Autism Awareness Day is celebrated by the UN every year, and it aims to spread awareness about people with autism, recognize their rights, and recognize their achievements. It also focuses on improving the quality of life of people with Autism Disorder and giving them full support to lead a meaningful life.

• Light It Up Blue: Join the global campaign to “Light It Up Blue” by wearing blue clothing or accessories, or by lighting up buildings and landmarks in blue. This symbol of solidarity helps raise awareness and show support for individuals with autism.
• Educate Yourself and Others: Take time to learn more about autism spectrum disorder, including the experiences of those who live with it. Share resources, books, documentaries, and personal stories to help educate your community.
• Support Autism-Friendly Businesses: Visit and support businesses that are inclusive and accommodating to individuals with autism. Your support helps create environments where everyone feels welcome and understood.
• Participate in Fundraising Events: Join or organize events such as walks, runs, or virtual fundraisers to support organizations that provide resources, advocacy, and support for people with autism and their families.
• Advocate for Inclusion: Support policies and initiatives that promote inclusion and accessibility for individuals with autism in schools, workplaces, and public spaces. Your advocacy can help ensure that everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
• Share on Social Media: Use social media to spread messages of acceptance and inclusion. Share facts, personal stories, and event details using relevant hashtags to raise awareness and encourage others to take part.

See Source for More Information.

• Share each day of the month a different fact with students about autism using this calendar.
• See the Kid's Guide to Autism Acceptance for more ideas.
• See Grades K-2 or Grade 3-6 lesson plan to help develop understanding of acceptance of others. Or, see these short mini-lessons to help build awareness of individuals with autism.
• See these K-8 lessons and resources to teach students about accepting their peers with autism. All the materials can be downloaded for free.