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Autism

Shining a Light on Autism: How the Suncoast Can Support World Autism Month 2025

| Angela Naff |

Every April, the world turns a brighter shade of blue as communities come together to recognize World Autism Month—a global movement to increase understanding, acceptance, and support for individuals on the autism spectrum. Here on the Suncoast, residents have a unique opportunity in 2025 to not only raise awareness but also take meaningful steps toward building a more inclusive and compassionate community for all.

Understanding Autism

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a developmental condition that affects how a person communicates, interacts socially, and processes information. It is truly a spectrum—meaning individuals experience it in varying degrees, from highly verbal and independent to nonverbal and in need of full-time support.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 1 in 36 children in the United States has been identified with ASD, a number that has steadily increased over the past two decades. This rise is largely due to improved awareness and diagnostic tools, allowing children to receive earlier and more accurate diagnoses.

While signs can appear as early as 12–18 months, many children aren’t diagnosed until later. Common early signs may include:

  • Delayed speech or language development
  • Limited eye contact or facial expression
  • Repetitive behaviors or fixations
  • Difficulty with social interactions or playing with others

Early diagnosis and intervention are crucial, as they open the door to support systems that can dramatically improve developmental outcomes.

Local Impact: Autism and the Suncoast

Florida ranks among the top states in the country for autism prevalence, and the Suncoast is home to a growing number of families navigating the autism journey. From Manatee County School District’s ESE (Exceptional Student Education) programs to support services provided by nonprofits like FACE Autism, Inc., our coastal communities are working hard to support children and adults on the spectrum.

However, the need is still great. Many families face long waitlists for services, financial strain from therapy costs, and a lack of understanding in public spaces. That’s why World Autism Month is so important—it’s not just about raising awareness, but about actively reshaping our communities to be more inclusive.

How You Can Get Involved This April

Whether you’re a parent, teacher, business owner, or neighbor, there are many ways to get involved and show support during World Autism Month 2025:

1. Attend Local Events

Look out for local events such as:

2. Support Autism-Friendly Businesses

Many businesses on the Suncoast are becoming more autism-aware by training their staff, creating quiet spaces, or offering sensory-friendly shopping hours. Patronize and uplift these businesses—and if you own a business, consider getting trained in Autism Friendly Florida practices.

3. Educate Yourself and Others

One of the most powerful things anyone can do is learn more about autism. Read books and articles by autistic authors, listen to podcasts that share real-life experiences, and ask respectful questions when appropriate. Awareness leads to empathy—and empathy leads to action.

Advocate for Change Year-Round

World Autism Month is a launchpad—not the finish line. There are several things we can all do to advocate year-round:

  • Promote early screening and diagnosis by encouraging parents to talk with their pediatricians about developmental milestones.
  • Push for more inclusive education and employment opportunities for individuals with autism.
  • Support legislation that funds autism services and research at both state and federal levels.
  • Speak up if you see someone being misunderstood or mistreated due to their differences.

A Community of Support

In the words of Temple Grandin, a world-renowned autism advocate and professor, “Different, not less.” That simple phrase serves as a powerful reminder that individuals on the autism spectrum bring unique perspectives, creativity, and value to every corner of our community.

This World Autism Month, let’s make the Suncoast a beacon of awareness, acceptance, and advocacy. Whether it’s through small acts of kindness, big policy changes, or simply opening your heart to a different way of experiencing the world, you have the power to make a difference.

Feature Photo Courtesy of Deposit Photos

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