Autism ToolKit

08/05/2025

🧑‍⚕️ Recognizing Body Language in Autistic Individuals: Why It Matters 💙

Autistic individuals may communicate in ways that don't match what we expect. Body language, like stimming, facial expressions, and eye contact, can offer key insights into their thoughts and feelings. It's important to recognize these signs to provide better care, build trust, and ensure they feel understood.

Doctors and caregivers can make a big difference by learning to interpret nonverbal cues and adapting their approach to each individual’s communication style. It’s all about respect, patience, and creating a safe space for autistic people to express themselves. 👐

Want to learn more about how we can better understand and support autistic individuals?

Visit https://www.autismtoolkit.org/resource/recognizing-body-language-in-autistic-individuals-what-it-means-and-why-it-matters/ for more resources. 💡

08/01/2025

🎒📚 Back-to-School Season is Here! 💙

For families affected by autism, the return to school can bring a mix of excitement and challenges. Whether it’s adjusting to new routines, meeting new teachers, or navigating sensory needs - your strength, patience, and advocacy make all the difference. 🌟 🍎✨

Visit the Autism ToolKit (www.autismtoolkit.org) for more ideas about the new school year!

07/30/2025

🌟 Inclusive college programs, such as IPSE (Inclusive Post-Secondary Education), help students with intellectual or developmental disabilities thrive in school, build independence, and prepare for meaningful careers.

🧩 Learn how these programs are opening doors across !

Inclusive Post-Secondary Education, or IPSE, is a program that helps students with intellectual or developmental disabilities go to college. These programs help students learn new things, make friends…

07/30/2025

🎓 What Is Inclusive Post-Secondary Education (IPSE)? 🌟

IPSE programs can help students with intellectual or developmental disabilities access the full college experience! From learning new skills to making lifelong friendships, these programs offer students the chance to prepare for independent living and future careers. 📚✨

Students who complete IPSE programs are more likely to land jobs in various fields like healthcare, technology, and education. Plus, they get to engage in campus life, build life skills, and grow as individuals! 🙌

In Georgia, there are 10 colleges offering IPSE programs, giving students the tools they need to thrive academically and socially.

Want to learn more? Visit https://www.autismtoolkit.org/resource/what-is-inclusive-post-secondary-education-ipse/ to explore how IPSE can make a difference for your future! 🌱

07/28/2025

🎭 Masking is when autistic individuals change their behavior to fit social norms, like making eye contact or suppressing stimming. While helpful for social interactions, it can lead to confusion, anxiety, and mental health issues.

🙍‍♀️ Women and girls often mask due to societal expectations, resulting in delayed diagnoses and reduced support.

🧩 Learn more in our post about masking.

Masking, also referred to as camouflaging, is when autistic people change their behavior to better “fit in” with their social environment. It can help autistic people interact with others but it can…

07/28/2025

🎭 What is Masking in Autism? 🎭

Masking (or camouflaging) is when autistic individuals alter their behavior to “fit in” socially. This can involve things like making eye contact, mimicking facial expressions, or suppressing stimming.

While this may help avoid social stigma, it can also lead to long-term stress, anxiety, and a feeling of being "inauthentic." 😔

Masking makes it harder for autistic people to get the support they need, like a proper diagnosis or accommodations at work and school. It's important we create environments where autistic individuals can feel comfortable being themselves! 🌟

Learn more about masking and how we can support unmasking at https://www.autismtoolkit.org/resource/understanding-masking/. 💻

07/26/2025

🥗 The importance of having variety in the diet of autistic people 🥦

Ultra-processed foods like chips, candy bars, and frozen pizzas are often more appealing to autistic children because they offer a predictable sensory experience.

While these foods are convenient, a diet focused on them can lead to long-term health risks like nutrient deficiencies, weight gain, and gastrointestinal issues. 😔

It’s crucial to encourage a balanced diet that includes a variety of whole foods, like fruits, vegetables, and proteins, to ensure proper nutrition and support healthy development. 🌈

Supporting an autistic child in expanding their food preferences can be challenging, but it’s essential for their overall health and well-being.

Learn more about how to encourage a healthy diet and better eating habits at https://www.autismtoolkit.org/resource/ultra-processed-foods-and-autistic-children/ 🌟

07/26/2025

🌐 The internet can be a great tool for connection, but also a risky place.

💻 Autistic people may be more vulnerable to scams or unsafe messages online, especially if they have difficulty detecting deception.

🧩 Learn tips for staying safe in digital spaces.

Because autistic people can have trouble reading social cues, they can’t always tell when someone is trying to scam them.

07/24/2025

📚 Some autistic individuals exhibit exceptional, focused skills in areas such as math, music, or memory. This is known as savantism.

🧩 While rare, it highlights how unique strengths can coexist with challenges. Learn more about savantism in our post.

Some autistic people display savant ability. Autistic savantism is when an autistic person show remarkable, but restricted, abilities.

07/24/2025

For parents and caregivers in the Columbus area! The Autism Hope Center has Parent Coffee Mornings on the 1st and 3rd Tuesdays of every month. This could be a great time to connect with other families affected by autism!

We would love to see you! Join us for coffee tomorrow, Tuesday, starting at 10 o'clock, at 2000 Hamilton Road, 31904.

07/24/2025

To learn more about autism, find online events, and find autism resources near you, visit us at www.autismtoolkit.org !

07/23/2025

📣 Georgia parents and caregivers, your voice matters!

🎓 Mercer University is hosting a brief virtual focus group to gain a deeper understanding of ABA therapy access in Georgia communities.

Details:

🗓 Runs July 23–August 23, 2025

👍 $100 thank-you for eligible participants

💬 60-minute virtual participation session

💻 Quick online screener

🧩 For those raising autistic children who’ve received or tried ABA therapy

🔗 Visit the link (https://bit.ly/44ZdaE5) or scan the QR code to see if you qualify

*Accepting up to 21 participants from across Georgia

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