Autism
Behind Every Brave Smile – Autism, Anxiety, and the Back-to-School Transition in 2026
In many states, including in Florida, August marks the beginning of a new school year. While some families are busy buying backpacks, labeling notebooks, and preparing lunch boxes, many autistic individuals and their families are preparing for something far more complicated: steeling themselves for transitions that require more than organization, but deep emotional strength and […]
School Readiness for Children with Autism
Building School Readiness Through Play and Transitions Preschool involves many transitions: arriving, putting belongings away, moving to circle time, ending play, washing hands, eating, and going outside. A child who enjoys each activity may still struggle when asked to stop one and begin another. Use visual schedules, countdowns, timers, and “first-then” language at home. You […]
A Lifeline for Children with Autism During Summer in 2026
Extended School Year Matters: A Lifeline for Children with Autism During Summer in 2026 top of page bottom of page
Autism and School: A Parent Advocacy Guide
Whenever possible, describe concerns with concrete examples. “Lunch is difficult” gives the team limited information. A more useful description might be: “During lunch, the noise level increases, and my child covers their ears, leaves the table, and is sometimes unable to eat.” Specific observations make autism advocacy more objective. They also help the team identify […]
My Child Was Diagnosed with Autism: What to Know
Parents wondering, “My child has autism, now what?” should feel comfortable asking providers how they select goals, measure progress, respond to distress, involve caregivers, and respect each child’s preferences. You May Wish You Had Asked More Questions—But You Can Ask Them Now When parents first say, “My child was diagnosed with autism,” they may assume […]
Parenting a Child with Autism: 12 Practical Tips
Try to minimize unexpected changes when possible. When a change is necessary, prepare your child in advance using a visual schedule, countdown, social story, calendar, or simple explanation. 6. Reinforce the Skills You Want to Encourage Positive reinforcement is a core strategy used in parenting a child with autism and in evidence-based behavioral support. It […]
7 Steps for Explaining Autism to Friends and Family
Autism spectrum disorder is a lifelong neurological and developmental condition that often becomes noticeable in early childhood. It can affect communication, social interaction, behavior, routines, sensory processing, and emotional regulation. Because autism exists on a spectrum, support needs can range from mild to significant. Autism does not look the same in every person. Some individuals […]
Thrive in College with Autism
College Is a New Chapter—And It Can Feel Scary The word thrive may be a big word when you are stepping into college for the first time. For many autistic and neurodivergent students, college can feel like standing at the edge of a vast ocean. From far away, it looks exciting and full of possibility, […]
Caps, Gowns, & Breakthroughs – Why High School Graduation Hits Different for Teens with Autism in 2026
Caps, Gowns, & Breakthroughs – Why High School Graduation Hits Different for Teens with Autism in 2026 top of page bottom of page
Daniel Durany, Autism Advocate and Speaker
A dedicated, autistic advocacy adult, Daniel Durany is a 2006 graduate of Texas Christian University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Communication Studies, and a 2020 graduate of Texas A&M Commerce with a Master of Science in Accounting.. A passionate autism advocate, Daniel has dedicated much of his life to advancing autism awareness, […]