5 ways to recognize Autism Awareness Month in our community

It is more common to hear about autism in our day-to-day lives. For example, PBS KIDS has a new program called “Carl the Collector” that follows the everyday adventures of Carl, a warm-hearted autistic raccoon who loves collecting things. And April is Autism Awareness Month, with National Autism Awareness Day observed this year on April 2, 2025.

But what are some ways we can support the education and awareness of autism in our community? Here are five ways to support families and children with autism, not just in April but also year round.

1. Educate yourself and others. Take the time to learn about the autism spectrum and debunk some of the myths that are continuously spread about the condition. Organizations like the Autism Society and CDC are filled with facts and resources, and that can be a good starting point. PBS for Parents also offers resources for families.
2. Get involved. Research what supportive activities are going on in your area. There are often fundraisers such as walks to raise funds that help support organizations directly linked to servicing children with autism and their families. There are also multiple local organizations offering support for autistic people and their families like Autism Speaks Arizona and Southwest Autism Research and Resource Center (SARRC).
3. Support autistic entrepreneurs. Follow and engage with social media accounts and websites of autistic creators. The support and recommendation of friends can make an impact!
4. Consider becoming a volunteer. The gift of time can be extremely valuable as well. If you are able to, donate your time to a local autism organization. Some organizations may be short-handed and could use the extra help, whether for one-off projects or for the long term.
5. Promote and read literature. If you are a parent or teacher, make sure to pick books with autistic characters. Not only will your students or children with autism feel seen, but it will help their classmates understand their friends or family members with autism too! Check out this article from PBS for Parents that lists books that help kids learn about neurodiversity.

How do you plan to engage with Autism Awareness Month this year? Share your ideas with us on @azpbskids on Facebook.

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About the author

Marissa Will is the mother of two, Olivia (6) and Logan (4). Writing was her first passion: she’s a freelance writer and a Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication alumna. Will is currently educating the future leaders of tomorrow: She has spent the past nine years educating third grade with a master’s degree in elementary education from Northern Arizona University-Yuma.