Awareness to Acceptance: Why the Shift?

Acceptance

Autism Acceptance Month emerged as a response to the traditional Autism Awareness Month, propelled by advocacy groups and individuals within the autistic community. This shift from mere “awareness” to “acceptance” signifies a more profound recognition and validation of the lived experiences of autistic individuals.

Here’s why this evolution took place:

Autistic-led advocacy:

Many autistic individuals and their allies perceive the “awareness” narrative as emphasizing deficits and challenges rather than embracing neurodiversity and celebrating the unique strengths of autistic individuals.

Emphasis on inclusion:

“Acceptance” underscores the significance of embracing autistic individuals as they are, without the inclination to change or “fix” them. It advocates for cultivating environments that prioritize inclusivity and cater to the needs of autistic individuals.

Empowerment and self-advocacy:

The shift empowers autistic individuals to advocate for themselves and their rights, fostering positive self-image and instilling pride in their identity.Autism Acceptance

Recognition of diversity within the autistic community:

By embracing the concept of “acceptance,” we recognize that the autistic community is richly diverse, encompassing individuals with a wide spectrum of strengths, challenges, and life experiences. This inclusive approach fosters an environment where the unique talents and abilities of each person are celebrated, rather than viewing autism through a narrow lens.

In doing so, we move beyond stereotypes and preconceived notions, opening ourselves to the richness and complexity of autistic individuals’ lives. By appreciating this diversity, we create space for everyone to thrive and contribute in their own way.

This shift signifies a deeper understanding and respect for the voices and perspectives of autistic individuals. It acknowledges their agency and autonomy, empowering them to shape the narrative surrounding autism and advocate for their needs and rights.

Ultimately, this transition paves the way for a more positive and inclusive approach to autism advocacy, one that values the inherent worth and dignity of every individual within the autistic community. It sets a precedent for building a society where everyone is embraced and supported, regardless of their neurodiversity.

We have been a family blessed with the help of the team at The Helm. Our son was diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder when he was 2.5 and The Helm was one of the places recommended by our developmental psychologist. I am a physician and still found it hard navigating this new medical problem and knowing what to do next. I called many places and from step one Lee Ann was the most helpful explaining the process with paperwork, assessment, available services, insurance, etc. we were able to start therapy quite soon after diagnosis and had sessions at home daily for 3 hours. The quality of staff, the system they have in place for the therapists, the coordination by the BCBA supervising therapist and early response put us at ease that we were on the right path. Ultimately the steady positive changes we saw with our son overcame any fears we had about autism holding our son back for the rest of his life.

We used many forms of intervention that we felt were individually tailored for our family – for potty training, anger management, dietary intervention and even let them know when we could not maintain something suggested in family training, and they would just take our request and implement another plan. Our son has now graduated/transitioned out of therapy and is currently in pre-K in a regular classroom with him on par with his class in academics, has friends and no behavior issues. Most important of all we have a happy son who loves to play with his big sister.

I know that I will always read all there is on autism and watch my son for any features. But I hope my review adds to positive aspects that I wish someone would have told me when I started the journey – start early, don’t put off your suspicions, get your child evaluated now! The label does not hinder,  in fact it falls to the side once you have the diagnosis to facilitate therapy. ABA intervention, especially done with the right people, makes a big difference. It does not pressure or upset the child at all, and you are not stuck in therapy for life! I know if any behavioral issues come up in the future I have The Helm, and they will help us and the outcome is going to be positive. Said with heartfelt thanks.

– Former Helm ABA Family

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