04/08/2026
April is World Autism Month! 🌈 This month, we celebrate neurodiversity, raise awareness, and uplift the voices and experiences of individuals with autism. This World Autism Month and throughout the year, Autism Speaks is encouraging schools, educators, and students to become everyday superheroes, championing inclusion and standing up against bullying.
Helping students understand the unique characteristics of their autistic classmates and the importance of making every child feel included can make a powerful difference. Building a sense of camaraderie and belonging creates a healthier, more supportive school community for all.
💙 “I PLEDGE to be a hero for inclusion and respect people of all abilities.” Use downloadable pledge pages for kids to color and customize, then share your school’s or business’s support!
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) looks different for every person, but understanding it helps us build more inclusive, compassionate communities. What are the core characteristics of autism? Autism is typically identified by two main areas: social communication/interaction differences and restricted/repetitive behaviors. Autistic individuals may experience:
• Difficulty starting or maintaining conversations
• Challenges with sharing emotions or understanding others’ feelings
• Differences in eye contact (less eye contact doesn’t mean they aren’t listening!)
• Trouble interpreting body language, tone, or facial expressions
• Feeling overwhelmed in social situations or needing support with relationships and boundaries
Restricted/repetitive behaviors can vary widely and may include:
• Repetitive movements or speech (stimming, like rocking or hand flapping)
• A strong need for routine or sameness
• Deep, focused interests in specific topics
• Sensory differences (being over- or under-sensitive to light, sound, touch, etc.)
Additional characteristics may include:
• Using alternative forms of communication (typing, visuals, behavior)
• Difficulty with planning, coordination, or daily living tasks
• Emotional regulation challenges, including sensory overload or shutdowns
• Masking (hiding traits to fit in) which can impact mental health
Autism exists on a spectrum, and support needs vary from “requiring support” to “requiring very substantial support.” No two individuals are the same, and some people without autism may show similar traits.
Let’s choose understanding over assumptions, inclusion over exclusion, and support over stigma!
Learn more at autismspeaks.org/WAM
