Why Autism Awareness is Not Enough: Why We Need Autism Acceptance.

April 1st marks the beginning of Autism Awareness month. However, as a Mom to an autistic child, we are very much aware of Autism in this house.  It’s not just a month here…it’s an everyday thing.  But prior to his diagnosis, I was just aware of Autism.  And, I’ll admit I was also scared of it, too. Because when you’re just aware, you just know the medical model and the disorder that Doctors and Researchers will talk about but you don’t really know much about it.  Autism Awareness is easy and focuses on the differences and stereotypes. Autism Acceptance requires understanding and acknowledging that we are all different and awesome in our own way.  Acceptance is celebrating all abilities and supporting each person so everyone gets to live their best life and have opportunities to do all the things they want to do.  Acceptance is completely free of judgement but is full of kindness and respect.