National Autism Association of North Texas

11/20/2025

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/17zvFjHRzg/

When your child or teen melts down, it’s not defiance. It’s their brain saying, “I’m at my limit.”

Those moments that look like “bad behavior” are really moments of overwhelm.

Their nervous system is flooded. The part of their brain that helps them think and respond calmly has gone offline, and what’s left is survival.

It’s not dramatic. It’s not manipulative. It’s a brain that’s maxed out.

What helps most isn’t correction, but connection. Your calm presence tells their body: You’re safe.

So what helps?

• Take a breath before you respond.
• Use few, gentle words.
• Offer quiet presence over lectures or logic.
• Let recovery come before reflection.

You’re not “letting them get away with it.” You’re helping their brain come back online. And that’s where real learning and connection begin.

If you’re craving more clarity and less chaos, visit our website to explore the Brain First Parenting approach!

11/15/2025

We have made the difficult decision to postpone the event scheduled for today. We found that this season's timing was challenging, and we want to ensure we create the biggest and most joyful community experience possible! We are now planning to combine the talent show with a larger family event at a future date.

We will send you the new timeline and details as soon as they are finalized. Thank you for your continued support!

11/13/2025

💙 World Kindness Day 💙

One of the kindest things you can do for any individual with autism is to presume competence — to see them as a whole person with thoughts, feelings, and dreams. 🌟

Presuming competence means:
✨ Speaking directly to the person and in an age-appropriate way
✨ Respecting their right to communicate in their preferred way 🗣️
✨ Including them in conversations and decisions about their life
✨ Asking for consent before touching, sharing information, or offering help
✨ Avoiding labels and stereotypes that limit potential
✨ Believing in their abilities and keeping expectations high 🚀

💡 When we presume competence, we empower individuals with autism to be heard, respected, and included, and that’s genuine kindness.

📖 Learn more and read our full guide here: https://tacanow.org/family-resources/presuming-competence-in-autism/

11/13/2025

💙 Today is World Kindness Day — a perfect reminder to do something kind for someone. A small act of kindness can make a big difference. 🌎✨

11/13/2025

We all want to be seen, understood, and loved. 💙

11/13/2025

My honey makes life sweeter. 🍯🐝💙

11/13/2025

11/13/2025

As seasons change and the holidays approach, it’s time to start thinking about how to best support and protect your loved one with autism. Transitions, gatherings, and new environments can increase wandering risks — preparation and prevention can make all the difference. 💙

Download NAA's Be REDy Booklet for wandering tips and tools. https://nationalautismassociation.org/resources/wandering/be-redy-booklets/

11/08/2025

UPDATE:

SUCCESSFUL CLOSE & UPDATE: We're happy to announce that all funds for this grant offer have been fully awarded! The grant is now officially CLOSED. We appreciate the overwhelming interest and quality of the applications. If you require resources or support moving forward, please don't hesitate to message us

Know an autism family in North Texas impacted by the shutdown? 💙
Emergency grants are now available through the National Autism Association of North Texas.

NOTE: Grant offer is limited to North Texas areas only.

Apply or share to help a family in need!

11/08/2025

💙 Every child deserves to be seen for who they truly are — amazing, unique, and super awesome.