Autism Speaks Dallas/Ft. Worth

05/18/2026

Summer is officially here, DFW! 🍉☀️

While we’re excited for fun in the sun, we know that losing the structure of the school year can make the transition to summer a bit challenging for our autistic children and families.

To help you navigate the seasonal shift with confidence, we’re sharing a fantastic new blog post from an Autism Response Team associate and mom. Check out her 4 practical, real-life strategies for a smoother summer:

Maintain Routine: Use visual schedules, smartphone timers, and "First/Then" concepts to provide reassurance before activities.
- Plan Support Early: Fill calendar gaps by coordinating extra therapy sessions or looking into respite care options.
- Lean on Community: Connect with local DFW autism moms for playdates at the park, tap into regional support groups, or use specialized childcare platforms.
- Embrace Imperfect Days: Give yourself grace on the tough days, focus on positive reinforcement, and don't be afraid to just "chill out" together.

Let’s make this a safe, fun, and connected season! Read the full article and get all the insights here: https://www.autismspeaks.org/blog/four-tips-smooth-transition-summer

The school year is winding down and it's time for Summer break! Click here to read four tips for a smooth transition into Summer.

05/11/2026

We’re excited to spotlight an incredible research opportunity from Texas Christian University that is helping further understanding of autism and emotional development in young children. 💙

The Families, Autism, and Child Emotion Studies (FACES) team is currently recruiting families for a paid research study focused on parenting experiences and how preschool-aged children on the autism spectrum manage emotions.

Families who participate may receive:
✨ $100 per family for each visit
✨ A prize for children at each visit
✨ Flexible scheduling including evenings and weekends

Eligible participants include:
✔️ Children ages 3–5 with an autism diagnosis
✔️ Both biological parents

This study is conducted at TCU and funded by the National Institutes of Health. All information shared is confidential.

To learn more or sign up:
📧 [email protected]
📞 (817) 257-4185
🔗 https://tcu.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_b1TcgeJrn8cI1jE

Thank you to the researchers and families working together to advance autism research and support the autism community! 💙

05/07/2026

Today on Barrier Awareness Day, we recognize that creating a more inclusive world starts with understanding, acceptance, and action.

Many autistic individuals face barriers every day — from overwhelming environments to communication challenges and limited accessibility in workplaces, schools, and community spaces. Together, we can help change that.

By becoming an Autism Friendly Ally or pursuing an Autism Friendly Designation for your workplace, you are helping create spaces where autistic individuals feel safe, supported, respected, and included. Small changes can make a meaningful impact.

Let’s continue building communities that celebrate differences, reduce barriers, and create opportunities for everyone to thrive.

05/05/2026

Today, Autism Speaks proudly celebrates Teacher Appreciation Day by honoring the educators who show up every day with patience, compassion, creativity, and unwavering dedication for autistic students and learners of all abilities.

Teachers do so much more than educate—they advocate, encourage, adapt, listen, and help create classrooms where every child has the opportunity to feel seen, supported, and capable of success. Their commitment to inclusion helps build confidence, independence, and brighter futures for students on the autism spectrum.

To every teacher, paraprofessional, therapist, and school professional making a difference in the lives of autistic individuals: thank you for the countless ways you empower your students and families each and every day. Your impact reaches far beyond the classroom, and today we celebrate you.

05/04/2026

We’ve put together a calendar of inclusive, sensory-friendly events happening across the Dallas–Fort Worth area to help you and your family start the summer feeling supported, connected, and included.
Please note: These events are not sponsored by Autism Speaks, but they strongly align with our mission to create a more inclusive world and uplift our community.
Explore the calendar below and discover meaningful ways to kick off the summer season in a way that feels right for you and your family!

05/02/2026

It’s National Fitness Day — and every body deserves movement that feels empowering, accessible and fun! Autism Speaks’ Autism Fit program was created by autistic adults, for autistic adults with sensory-friendly, low-pressure workouts that can be done right at home with no gym required. From seated options to quick 1-minute routines, Autism Fit helps build strength, confidence and calm at your own pace. Because fitness isn’t about perfection — it’s about progress.

Ready to get moving your way? Check out Autism Fit here: https://www.autismspeaks.org/autism-fit

04/29/2026

Savor by Susie has partnered with Autism Speaks to create a more inclusive workplace throughout their company. They are a great role model for other companies to commit to hiring autistic adults. Learn More: www.autismspeaks.org/win

04/28/2026

Advocacy doesn't just happen once a year at Advocacy Forum or just in Washington DC. We've committed to meet advocates of every level where they are in their advocacy journey to help them make year-round impact on federal and state policy issues. The NEW Autism Speaks Advocacy Academy is a volunteer leadership and advocacy training initiative that will empower generations of autism advocates.

Applications are open at www.autismspeaks.org/AdvocacyAcademy

04/27/2026

People with profound autism will need care, supervision, and support for the rest of their lives. As Judith says about her son, Jack, "His behaviors might look different to you, but he's a really valuable human being."

Learn more: https://www.autismspeaks.org/profound-autism