Autism Basics

Autism is a natural variation of the human experience.

Autistic individuals have unique strengths and abilities that should be celebrated and valued. Our society is not built for the neurodiverse, and the challenges faced by Autistic individuals are often overlooked or dismissed. From sensory overload to the overwhelming expectations of social interaction, the daily support needs of Neurodivergent individuals are often invisible to the majority. Our society can listen, learn, and help advocate for these needs better. By embracing neurodiversity and recognizing the value of different ways of thinking and processing information, we can work towards creating inclusive and supportive environments that allow everyone to thrive.

As you learn about some strengths and support needs in Autistic individuals, keep in mind the great variation of individuals across the autism spectrum.

Questions about autism or AANE’s services?

Schedule a call to speak with a member of AANE’s staff, or fill out a form to be contacted by email.

Receive emails on events, autism info, and Autistic perspectives.

Sign Up

Learn More

Just beginning to learn about autism? Here are some helpful places to start.

Frequently Asked Questions

Check out our answers to some of the questions we commonly receive.

Government Funding & Benefits

Autistic individuals in the United States may be eligible for government funding and benefits. Federal and state level resources can provide financial assistance, access to healthcare, and support services. Navigating the various programs and requirements can be complex, and it’s important to understand the options available.

Find Articles and Videos

Go straight to our library and search by topic, keyword, audience, and more.

Sign Up

Receive emails on events, autism info, and Autistic perspectives