A Time for Hope: A Letter to Our Community – Honoring Autism Acceptance & Awareness Month

PBS Kids and other children’s programming platforms are beginning to introduce neurodivergent characters, stories, and even vocabulary into the everyday world of young viewers.

• “Hero Elementary”, where AJ Gadgets is a young superhero with autism, proudly showing his strengths and navigating challenges with heart and brilliance. 

• “Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood”, which welcomes Max, a character with autism, voiced by a young actor on the spectrum. 

• “Sesame Street”, who introduced Julia—a sweet, curious, autistic girl who brings her own rhythm to friendship and play. 

These moments may feel small, but they’re huge for the children watching—both autistic children who finally see themselves reflected, and neurotypical kids who are learning to celebrate difference instead of fearing it. 

Representation matters. And our kids are watching.

Indiana Is Showing Up
Closer to home, my heart swells at the incredible work happening across the state of Indiana to support, uplift, and include autistic individuals and their families.

• The Autism Society of Indiana’s “30 Days of Autism” campaign is a vibrant invitation to learn, connect, and engage throughout the entire month of April.

• Ausome Indy continues to expand its growing calendar of sensory-friendly and inclusive events for families, – making joy, play, and connection more accessible than ever.

• In Noblesville, Bee Free Warrior, a nonprofit bakery, not only makes gluten-free, healthy snacks—but also employs individuals living with autism, proving that meaningful work and belonging go hand in hand.

These are not just programs. They’re lifelines. They’re loud declarations of love, acceptance, and action.

Yes—we’re seeing progress. Yes—we’re seeing compassion grow. But we still have real, urgent needs that can’t be overlooked.

Families like mine who utilize ABA (Applied Behavior Analysis) therapy are now at risk of losing access to this critical service in the years ahead. Policy shifts and funding changes threaten what so many children rely on to learn, communicate, and thrive.

And even when children are ready to transition into public schools, families often face resistance—schools frequently deny the support of RBTs (Registered Behavior Technicians) in the classroom. These are the very professionals who help our children navigate, regulate, and succeed. Being told “they can’t come in” feels like being told our child doesn’t belong.

Because our families are not just surviving—we are building something better. We are helping to create a community where every child—regardless of learning style or neurological makeup—has a place to learn, play, and live fully.

Stories from Within the Community
One of the most powerful shifts I’m seeing is the amplification of voices from within the neurodivergent community.  Our very own, “What If My Pieces Don’t Fit?” and the foundation of KI Productions’ Neurodivergent Collection are giving space to authentic, honest, and beautifully human stories told by those living the experience. It’s not about fitting a mold—it’s about celebrating the truth of who we are. Publishing, storytelling, and media are catching up. And we’re here for it.