Autism Acceptance Month is more than just raising awareness; it's about fostering understanding, inclusion, and appreciation for Autistic individuals. We invite you to explore reading lists and resources that center Autistic voices, stories, and lived experiences.
As Temple Grandin, an Autistic advocate and scientist, said, "The world needs different kinds of minds to work together." Similarly, Christopher Banks, CEO of the Autism Society of America, emphasizes the importance of true inclusion: "Awareness is knowing that somebody has Autism—acceptance is when you include a person with Autism in your activities. Help (them) to develop in that community and get that sense of connection to other people."
Library Events
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Sensory Stay & Play - Wednesday, April 01 from 10:00am–12:00pm at Darrington Library
Join us for this special sensory-focused stay and play event where children birth to kindergarten and their caregivers will engage in a variety of sensory stimulating activities and socialize with others. Drop in anytime during this event. -
Stay and Play with Sensory Bins - Tuesday, April 07 from 10:00am–11:00am at Lakewood/Smokey Pt. Library
Come dig, scoop, and shape during a fun hour of sensory play! We will provide bins with a variety of materials and textures for children and caregivers to explore together. Children will be able to rotate stations at their own pace and interest. Please register for this event as it takes place before the library opens. -
Creating Random Art Fun Times - Thursday, April 23 from 3:00pm–5:00pm at Darrington Library
Join us for Creating Random Art Fun Times or CRAFT for short. The library will provide a selection of crafting supplies and activities. This is a chance for family members of all ages to play, create, socialize with others, and reconnect with the library. Drop in anytime during this event. -
Sensory Bin Fun Time / Juego Sensorial - Friday, April 24, from 4:00pm–5:30pm at Mariner Library
Dig, scoop, and shape during a fun hour of sensory play! We will provide bins with a variety of materials and textures for children and caregivers to explore together. Children will be able to rotate stations at their own pace and interest. No registration needed. Drop in at any time during the event.
¡Vengan a excavar, moldear y manipular diferentes texturas durante una divertida hora de juego sensorial! Proporcionaremos contenedores con una variedad de materiales para que los niños y sus cuidadores exploren juntos. Los niños podrán alternar las estaciones a su propio ritmo e interés. No es necesario registrarse. -
Friendship Club - Mondays from 10:30–11:30am at Mountlake Terrace Library.
Welcome to a weekly drop-in activity program for adults! Have fun and make friends while you enjoy activities together. We will have puzzles, coloring sheets, board games, and a different craft every week. This event is friendly to neurodiverse adults, those with physical or developmental disabilities, dementia or brain injuries. Neurotypical friends and allies welcome too!
Autism Resources & Support
Find information, advocacy opportunities, and services available for individuals and families.
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Autistic Self Advocacy Network (ASAN)
ASAN is a nonprofit organization run by and for Autistic individuals, advocating for disability rights, inclusion, and self-determination. Their site provides resources, policy initiatives, and tools to support Autistic people in leading self-directed lives. -
Autism Society of America
A national organization offering educational materials, community programs, and advocacy initiatives to promote Autism inclusion and support. -
Autism Society of Washington
A statewide organization providing resources, services, and programs to support individuals with Autism and their families across Washington. -
DSHS Autism Acceptance
The Washington State Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA) provides an overview of Autism spectrum disorders, early detection, treatment options, and additional support for individuals and families in Washington. -
Island County Parent to Parent
Island County Parent to Parent provides support, information, and resources for families of children with disabilities and special healthcare needs, including Autism. They offer parent mentoring, educational workshops, and connections to local services, as well as a comprehensive Autism resource guide to assist families in finding the support they need.
Further Reading
These books are an excellent starting point for both neurotypical and neurodiverse people who want to be better allies to their Autistic friends, families and neighbors.
All Cats Are on the Autism Spectrum
Additional Resources
Sno-Isle Libraries offer several resources for neurodivergent people. Visit our Accessibility page to learn more.
Keep up to date with the latest research on Autism from hundreds of academic medical journals and magazines with these electronic databases accessible with your library card:
Together, let's embrace diversity, celebrate differences, and promote acceptance--because everyone in our community is welcome in their library!
