April is Autism Acceptance Month, where we focus on accepting people for exactly who they are.  It is important to remember that everyone is unique and has different experiences.  That’s what makes us who we are.  And it’s important to accept our differences. 

All people want to feel included and have friendships.  For students with Autism it can be more difficult to make friends.  Here are some ideas to help students begin, build, and keep a friendship with a child on the Autism spectrum.

ACCEPT your friend’s differences and respect their strengths the way you would with any friend.  We all have abilities and special traits that make us different.

INVITE and INCLUDE your friend to join you and other friends in games and activities.  Your friend may want to be included but may not know how to ask or may not understand the rules.

BE PATIENT and KIND if your friend does not respond right away if you ask a question.  Sometimes your friend might not understand what you were asking. Sometimes your friend might need extra time to think in order to share his or her thoughts. 

TAKE A STAND if you see someone teasing, making fun of or bullying someone, let them know that it is not cool or kind. Tell a trusted adult if someone is being hurt. 

Remember April 2nd is Autism Acceptance day.  You may see landmarks around the world that are illuminated in blue to show support of those who live with Autism. 

Hopefully, the students here at Park Elementary will continue to show kindness and support for all of our friends today and everyday!