April is Autism Acceptance Month, a time to celebrate the diversity and strengths of autistic individuals.
As a school-based speech-language pathologist, I’m privileged to work alongside autistic students, supporting their communication goals in ways that honor their unique perspectives. This month is not just about awareness but about fostering genuine acceptance and belonging!
Shifting from Awareness to Acceptance
Autism acceptance means moving beyond simply knowing about autism to actively embracing and valuing autistic voices. In speech and language therapy, this means recognizing the importance of self-advocacy, honoring different communication styles, and encouraging authentic expression.
Many autistic students communicate using a variety of methods, including verbal speech, augmentative and alternative communication (AAC), sign language, or a combination of these. As an SLP, my role is to support their preferred communication modes, ensuring their voices are heard and respected- no matter which modality.
Building Strengths-Based Support
A neurodiversity-affirming approach focuses on strengths rather than deficits. Instead of trying to "fix" differences, we celebrate and build upon a student’s interests and abilities. For example, using a student’s passion for trains or animals as a motivating topic during language activities can foster meaningful engagement.
It’s also essential to teach practical communication strategies, such as advocating for breaks, expressing emotions, and navigating social situations in ways that feel comfortable for the student. Supporting self-regulation and validating sensory experiences are also key components of therapy. This leads to great collaboration with our OT colleagues!
Celebrating Autistic Voices
Autistic self-advocates are powerful voices in the neurodiversity movement. Encouraging students to explore their own self-advocacy skills and helping them identify what accommodations support their success is empowering. From participating in IEP meetings to expressing their preferences, autistic students deserve to be active participants in their educational journey.
This Autism Acceptance Month, let’s commit to creating affirming spaces where autistic students feel valued, supported, and celebrated for who they are. By embracing neurodiversity, we build a more inclusive and compassionate school community.
To learn more about neurodiversity-affirming practices, visit resources from autistic self-advocates, organizations like the Autistic Self Advocacy Network (ASAN), and professional guidance from ASHA.
Happy Autism Acceptance Month! Let’s continue to listen, learn (or unlearn old ways), and grow together.
Author: Camryn Harwick, M.S., CCC-SLP
