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Dear Friends,

July arrives with longer days, warmer air, and a natural invitation to slow down and reconnect with what matters most.

It’s a wonderful time to celebrate the small moments of progress we see in ourselves, our children, and our communities, especially as summer routines give space for growth in different, more gentle ways.

At Autism Today, we’re continuing to highlight stories of belonging, inclusion, and real-life supports that help individuals and families thrive through every season. 

Wherever this month finds you, may it bring a sense of ease, connection, and meaningful moments shared with the people who matter most.

Making Summer Meaningful for Autistic Children and Teens

Summer can feel exciting and overwhelming all at once, especially when routines change for autistic children and teens. What matters most isn’t filling every day, but creating a gentle rhythm that blends structure, downtime, and time for the things your child truly loves. 

Simple moments of connection and following their interests can bring more joy than any busy schedule ever could. With flexibility, patience, and care, summer can become a season where your child feels understood, supported, and able to thrive in their own way.

The Power of Strength-Based Coaching for Autistic and ADHD Individuals - By Luminary Leader Patty Laushman

I love seeing approaches that focus on what autistic and ADHD individuals can do, rather than what they struggle with. 

This inspiring article explores how strength-based coaching helps autistic and ADHD individuals build confidence, develop self-awareness, and achieve meaningful goals by focusing on their unique abilities. 

Rather than emphasizing challenges, it celebrates neurodiversity and empowers people to thrive. Read the full article to discover how a strengths-focused approach can unlock potential and create positive change.

Autism Directory Expands Reach for Professionals and Service Providers

I’m really pleased to share a resource that begins with the incredible work of autism service providers - professionals, organizations, educators, therapists, coaches, and advocates who are dedicated to supporting individuals and families every day. 

By creating a profile, providers can highlight their expertise, share their services, and increase their visibility to families who are actively seeking trusted guidance and resources.

Designed to help families, individuals, and professionals connect more easily with trusted supports and services, this growing resource is already making it easier to find the help you need. We invite you to explore it today and check back often as new listings and resources continue to be added.

More Than a Hobby: Why Special Interests Matter

Over the years, I've seen how special interests can become powerful sources of joy, confidence, and connection for autistic individuals. 

These passions are often much more than hobbies - they can help people learn, navigate challenges, discover their strengths, and find a sense of belonging.

Two Stories, One Message

Honesty, Understanding, and the Heart of Childhood

I'm delighted to share two special stories that remind us how important it is to understand the world through a child's eyes. 

The Honesty Quest helps children explore the value of truth, trust, and personal responsibility through relatable everyday experiences, while Little Rainman Too (with a foreword from Temple Grandin) shares my son Jonathan's real-life journey with autism and offers a heartfelt glimpse into how he experiences the world. 

Together, these books encourage empathy, understanding, and meaningful conversations about the unique ways children learn, grow, and connect with others. I hope they inspire you as much as they have inspired me.

Autistic Artist Inspires Through Creativity and Self-Expression

Art has a unique way of helping us understand different perspectives and experiences. 

In this inspiring video profile, autistic artist Ryan Smoluk shares how his life experiences have shaped his creativity, advocacy, and distinctive artistic voice.

His story is a powerful reminder of the talent, insight, and contributions autistic individuals bring to our communities.

Creating More Neurodivergent-Friendly Shopping Experiences

Shopping can often feel overwhelming for autistic and neurodivergent individuals because of bright lights, noise, crowds, and busy environments. 

It’s encouraging to see more retailers making thoughtful changes like softer lighting, calmer layouts, and quieter spaces to improve the experience for everyone.  These small but meaningful shifts are helping create more comfortable, inclusive spaces where everyone can feel welcome.

A New Way to Connect with Karen's Insights

One of the things I'm most excited about right now is finding new ways to support the many people who reach out to me each day with questions and concerns.

That's why I created my new AI Protégé. It's designed to share the insights, encouragement, and practical guidance I've gathered through decades of working alongside autistic individuals, families, and professionals. Rather than receiving generic, robotic responses, you'll hear my voice provide advice shaped by my own experiences and perspective.

While nothing can replace human connection, I hope this tool helps make trusted support more accessible whenever it's needed.

I'd love for you to give it a try. You can explore it for FREE!

Thanks to our incredible volunteers, we're able to reach more families, share more stories, and build a brighter future for the autism community. 

Interested in joining our volunteer team? We’d love to connect with you!