How Children’s Home Supports Autism Acceptance and Empowers Students
Join us in celebrating April as Autism Acceptance Month!
What is Autism Acceptance Month?
Autism Acceptance Month calls us to step beyond awareness to total acceptance and inclusion. Fostering communities that uplift individuals with autism for their uniqueness in all forms.
It recognizes that autism comes with both strengths and struggles, moments of joy and challenges.
What is Autism?
Autism Spectrum Disorder, often referred to as autism, is characterized by variations in social interaction and communication, alongside diverse patterns of behavior, interests, and activities. Autism impacts each individual uniquely, presenting a diverse spectrum of experiences and needs.
How does Children’s Home help?
The staff at our Academy for Autism (AFA) and Kiefer School understand that each child with autism is unique. Both schools serve students with autism from diverse backgrounds, providing them with a safe place to grow and navigate their challenges. We are equipped to address each student’s individual needs and ensure they receive the tools necessary for success. This includes individualized therapeutic learning environments, grouping students with similar needs within classrooms, providing readily accessible special sensory items, and offering additional sensory rooms, while maintaining a 2:1 student ratio.
All students who attend our AFA are engaged in the evidence-based STAR Autism Program that closes the gap for students who are unable to access traditional general and special education curriculum.
How You Can Help Foster Acceptance
- Commit to Accessibility: Implement inclusive hiring practices and workplace accommodations.
- Listen to and Amplify Those with Autism: Read and share books, articles, and media created by individuals with autism.
- Create Inclusive Spaces: Implement sensory-friendly accommodations in workplaces, schools, and public spaces.
- Educate Yourself and Others: Attend a training, host a discussion, or follow and support local and national autism organizations like the Autism Society, Autism Speaks, The Autism Collective, and the Autism Society of Central Illinois.
- Donate: Support our mission of helping the kids and families who need it most with a financial contribution. Your generosity directly impacts our programs that serve youth with autism. Learn more.
