Wendy describes the challenges for someone on the autism spectrum for what many would call a simple outing. By Wendi E. Powers Going out in public is always an adventure for those of us on the autism spectrum.  While I can’t speak for the others, I can share a personal example.  Just…

How painting unlocked one woman’s ability as a savant. Congratulations to Amanda LaMunyon who on the Megyn Kelly show this morning! Here’s the video for those who missed it! Here’s a link to the Today show article Source: The Art of Autism

Ryan Smoluk talks about the importance of not listening to other’s negative projections for the future. By Ryan Smoluk “Oh no, no Ryan don’t think about going to university! You will never be able to do that!” a teacher in elementary told me. I was crushed. Was that true? I only ever tho…

As an autistic person myself, I do not take being verbal for granted and I understand how powerful writing can be to express oneself. I understand Pam’s saturation in books, her safe places to escape to and think, because I had mine too and still do. I identify with the types of “beyond the norm” gi…

Ron Sandison interviews Dr. Paula Kluth, consultant, author, advocate and independent consultant What inspired you to study special education in college? My high school started welcoming students with more complex needs when I was a senior. I approached the teacher to volunteer and work in her c…

By Stephie King Are you one of those readers who devours material about autism with a dry well of content to drink from? Check out some of the books loved by autistic creator, Lizzie, as well as her own contribution to the book pile. A new book project is looming on the horizon of completion you may…

Austin shares what it is like to have a panic attack and wants others to share their experiences. By Austin John Jones What I am about to talk about I think is a very personal experience for me. However, I want to tell you about it because I know I can’t be the only person on earth who has felt this…

By Kimberly Gerry Tucker Someone once told me, “I don’t understand your poetry! What is the meaning?!” I had to contemplate that before I answered. Finally, I said, “Read it slowly and see the images it evokes. Ask yourself, what does Kim’s poetry mean to me?” The sidewalk I’m on is pitted, crumblin…

By Jasmine Dyoco Going back to school can be exciting and fun for some kids, but for others, it can cause anxiety and stress. It’s normal to be nervous about the unknown. New teachers, classmates, schedules, classrooms, and subjects can cause the jitters in just about anyone. But for children and te…

How an accidental brush by an autistic savant with a silent movie classic has changed one of the world’s most recognizable films into Hollywood’s first 3D motion picture. By Carl Hernz For those not familiar with the ways of children with autism, a toy in our hands can all too often serve its …

by Pam Urfer (commentary by Kimberly Gerry-Tucker after) Not much was known about Autism in 1942, the year I was born. Nor in 1952, when I was 10. Nor in 1962, when I was 20. I’m not sure what symptoms I displayed as a child, whether or not I spoke late, or potty trained late, or disliked being touc…

“…if you want to LIVE TO YOUR FULLEST POTENTIAL, and live a good life that you can die being happy with, you need to put yourself out there. You need to interact.” By Austin John Jones Socializing can be difficult for people on the spectrum. Ever had those moments where you want to…

In honor of #TakeTheMaskOff week The Art of Autism is posting this incredible essay from a 10th grade student recently diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder about passing as a neurotypical By Maya Radhakrishnan In 2000 the rate of autism diagnoses was about 1 in 150 people. By 2017 this rate was 1…

why I’m no longer employed By an anonymous female on the autism spectrum Sorry, I had to title my first AOA blog with my favorite saying from the King’s Quest video game series. In game VII a very ugly (to some) troll asks the beautiful Princess Rosella for a kiss. Upon rejection his rep…