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Acceptance Begins with Understanding

A better understanding of autism leads to greater acceptance, stronger support, and accommodations. Join us in learning and taking action.

Why Understanding Matters 

Misunderstanding autism often happens because people don't have enough information or experience with autism or have incorrect ideas about it. 

Additionally, the lack of consistent and authentic representation of autistic people in media, such as TV shows, movies, and books, means that people don't get to experience real and unique stories. This absence of experience and real information contributes to misinformation and stigma, where negative attitudes and unfair treatment towards people with autism persist.  

Shoshana wearing a hat

If one only sees the world through their own place in society and their own observations, they might understand something on a cerebral level but never truly connect with what they’ve learned.

— Shoshana Kessock

Know the Facts About Autism

Autism is a neurodevelopmental disability that affects communication, social interactions, and sensory processing. Autism is a spectrum disorder, meaning each Autistic person may experience their own set of Autistic traits and need varying levels of support and services.  

Misinformation can lead to discrimination in all areas of life, including education and employment. For example, when there’s an assumption that an autistic person can’t perform at the same level as someone who is not autistic, there are fewer employment opportunities available.

Join our Know the Facts campaign to support disability services! 

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Health, Vaccines, and Autism

Explore this expert-developed FAQ from Easterseals Southern California, where clinical leaders and autism specialists address common questions, debunk myths, and share evidence-based insights. Learn how vaccines work, why they're safe, and how you can support autistic people in your community.

A young child with Down syndrome smiles

Make the First Five Count: Early Support Matters

The Make The First Five Count screening tool helps parents identify potential developmental delays in young children. Knowing more about developmental milestones empowers you to provide the right support and activities for your child.

Understanding Autistic Traits

In our "Understanding Autistic Traits" video series, Autistic self-advocates and Easterseals experts share their experiences with common Autistic traits. 

Check Out the Full Series

Discover New Perspectives: Learn from Autistic People

The best path to understanding is learning from autistic people's experiences. Explore our collection of blogs and podcast episodes featuring autistic creators, leaders, authors, and professionals. 

Understanding Mental Health

Mental health is a critical part of overall well-being, yet stigma prevents many from seeking help.  

These blogs feature firsthand stories of navigating mental health and disability. 

Understanding your mental health begins here

Know Your Mental Health Needs

Easterseals offers a free, accessible mental health screening tool to help individuals take the first step toward support.

Engage and Take Action

Understanding is just the first step—true acceptance of disability includes action and continually educating oneself. Here’s how you can help. 

Share These Resources: Help spread awareness by sharing this page and our resources on social media and engage in conversation using #AcceptanceBeginsWithUnderstanding

Learn From Authentic Conversations: Our "Everything You Know About Disability is Wrong" podcast features honest discussions about mental health and disability.

Listen Now

Support Easterseals: Your support helps us continue advocating for disability support and services and providing life-changing services.  

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