The Autistic Spectrum (AS) is the most common Neurodiversity (ND) and/or neurological variants that expands and strengthens the human experience, the AS is best understood using the Social Model of Disability(SMD) to ensure accommodation, inclusion, and equal opportunity for all autistic persons. Below is a list of some autistic traits, that an autistic individual can experience and/or exhibit, this does not mean that all autistic people have these traits, and all autistic individuals will have different levels of expression. Finally, non-autistic person (s) allistic and/or neurotypical may also share these traits despite not being autistic. It is very important for everyone to keep in mind that autism can manifest itself in a plethora of ways, so it is best not to assume someone may and/or may not be autistic based on the way they look.®
For a better understanding of the Autistic Neurotype, please read An Introduction to the Autistic Neurotype by DASHA KOLESIK available for free on her website "While You Wonder". a great resource for quick and free autism assessments and/or information!
It is also essential that you yourself learn about the Neurotypical brain and how they understand the world. By doing so it will be far easier to have social interactions with them, and far easier to detect toxic and predatory people. Please read Neurotypical Spectrum Disorder Written By Stephanie Winn LMFT. Another well written manifesto about the Neurotypical is the The Institute for the Study of the Neurologically Typical Posted on by angryautie
AUTISTICALLY, CULTURALLY, MEDICALLY, & POLITICALLY APPROVED VOCABULARY
All of the AFLF definitions for our website come from the Cambridge Dictionary and/or other credible organizations, and/or institutions. Please note that the #ACTUALLYAUTISTICWIKI is a more comprehensive autism database
THE FIVE AUTISM LOVE LANGUAGES
THE AUTISM FOR LIFE FOUNDATIONS'S THINK TANK
SUNDAY'S FROM 5 PM - 9 PM TO BRAINSTORM FOR OUR COMMUNITY
GUIDELINES & STANDARDS
Below are some autistic owned and operated businesses, charities, foundations, podcasts, and networks. Our foundation was built by the autistic community for the autistic community, autistics for autistics. Therefore, we ensured that the autistic population was represented within the digital database first and foremost and will continue to expand the database as we grow. If you know of any autistic owned and/or operated businesses, please contact us via the feedback page and we will ensure to include them to our portfolio after careful review.
One of our goals with the community section of our foundation is to foster a reasonable accommodation for those who are verbally impaired and/or non verbal to increase community safety.
Introducing an Alberta Autism Identification card that has countless benefits for the community as a whole. It's important to note that the effectiveness of such a card depends on its implementation and the support systems in place.
To view the Autism Identification Cards that we have created on Canva, click here!
Autism Safety 101 - The Wallet Card
Is a resource designed to enhance the safety and well-being of individuals on the autism spectrum. The wallet-sized card likely contains essential information about the individual, including communication preferences and emergency contacts, serving as a valuable tool for self-advocacy and improved interactions with law enforcement and emergency responders.
I Am Autistic - National Autistic Society (UK) & Scotland
"I Am Autistic" is a downloadable resource card provided by the National Autistic Society in the UK. This card is a great way for you to let people know that you are autistic and that you might need some extra time or help in certain situations.
Autism Justice
Autism Justice is a coalition of scientists, consumer advocates and lawyers helping women and their families hold drug companies accountable for damages these companies are causing to these families and to get these products labeled properly so that pregnant women can make fully informed choices about what pain relief to seek during pregnancy
TED x Macquarie University
Jac den Houting
Why everything you know about autism is wrong
The Daily Show With Trevor Noah with Rick Glassman
How @rickglassman views “As We See It†as a chance to express lived experiences of autism, rather than a platform to act as a spokesman
Dasha Kolesik - While You Wonder
we're here to help individuals self-identify as autistic by providing resources and guidance to better understand themselves and their experiences.
Genius Within
Passionate about Neurodiversity, working towards a future where all neurodivergent talents are celebrated and all organisations work systemically to maximise our potential and work to our strengths.
We are Exceptional Individuals
We provide neurodiversity consulting, recruitment and employment support to employers and individuals with dyslexia, dyspraxia, ADHD and autism. Neurodiversity & Neurodivergent: Meanings, Types & Examples
Neurodivergent Rebel - Lyric Rivera
Lyric Rivera is a trans-nonbinary, Autistic, self-advocate, who runs the internationally recognized Neurodivergent Rebel blog.
Brilliantly Diverse â€â€Å“ By ADHD Coach Saskia
Coaching focused on Strengths and Neurodiversity, Discover and polish your strengths. celebrate your differences.
Ted Talks - THE FORGOTTEN HISTORY OF AUTISM
Steve Silberman is a writer and contributing editor for Wired who covers science and society. His newest book explores neurodiversity and the link between autism and genius.
Ted Talks - Playlist The autism spectrum
Explore the science of autism -- and listen to the stories of people who live with it.
Ted Talks - Temple Grandin: The world needs all kinds of minds
Temple Grandin on Ted Talks
Intune Pathways - Kristy Forbes
Ms. Forbs is an Australian based autism & neurodiversity support specialist with experience working with clients both nationally and internationally.
Global News - Caryn Lieberman 02/19/2020
Autism over 18: Why adults with autism need more support
Daniel G. Amen MD
Are highly trained team of specialists, providing resources and services to those experiencing neurodiversity and brain health overall.
Science America - Decoding the Overlap between Autism and ADHD
The two conditions often coincide, but the search for common biological roots turns up conflicting evidence
Spectrum News
Decoding the overlap between autism and ADHD Autism and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder often coincide, but the search for common biological roots has turned up conflicting evidence.
Seattle’s Children
In Our Own Words: A Panel of Adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder (2016)
Independent
No, Elon Musk, autism does not need "solving", we'd much rather be accepted as we are.
Behavioural Innovations
20 Famous People with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).
Huberman Lab Podcast
Dr. Karen Parker: The Causes & Treatments for Autism
PLEASE BE ADVISED THAT SOME OF THESE BUSINESSES ARE NOT LOCATED WITHIN CANADA!
Yellow Ladybugs
Yellow Ladybugs is an autistic-led, non-government organisation with strong bridges to the community. We are dedicated to the happiness, success and celebration of autistic girls and women.
Reframing Autism
We are an Autistic-led charity, reframing the understanding of Autism through education, resources and research, underpinned by our lived experience as Autistics.
Owned by Brandi - Sensory Sweaters Located in Calgary, Alberta, Canada.
A sensory sweater is a collaboration of a sensory sock and a hoodie. The resistance inside the sweater provides deep pressure input to the proprioceptive and tactile systems.
Owned by Brad - Made By Brad - Located in Calgary, AB
Brad loves building things, check him out on Facebook Made By Brad
Anthony at your Service
Alberta's only socially responsible, customizable, direct delivery service. Serving Edmonton, Calgary, and B.C.
Owned by Nic - Crow & Sparkle
Nic is a self-taught jewelry artist located in Vancouver B.C. whose goal is to create durable and rustic pieces that you'll love to wear every day.
Owned by Margaux Wosk - Retrophiliac
Celebrate Neurodiversity, Autism & So Much More! Located in Vancouver, British Columbia
Prospect Therapy
Prospect Therapy is a queer + trans affirming therapy practice based in Long Beach, CA, with a focus on mental health for first-generation, immigrant, and bicultural communities.
Morgan Harper Nichols - Garden24
Garden24 began in Spring of 2019, as writer Morgan Harper Nichols began to watch things bloom, professionally and personally.
Alissa Merklinger - All Things Sensory
Fidgets made by a neurodivergent for neurodivergent.
Owned by Jas - Batmoons making things sometimes
Located in Truro, United Kingdom
Kaiko Fidgets
Kaiko Fidgets is based in Melbourne, Australia and is co-founded by Kai, who is both autistic & dyslexic.
Amor Sensory
Amor Sensory is a trans and disabled-owned company founded by Andy Amor, a nonbinary artist, designer, and fashion nerd who proudly identifies as neurodivergent.
Chloé Hayden â€â€Å“ Eye Sparkles
Chloé Hayden is an award-winning motivational speaker, actor, performer, author, influencer, content creator and disability rights activist and advocate, the heart of which these all intersect being her passion for creating change, celebrating diversity, and pushing towards a better future.
Sonny Jane - Drop In Care Space Located in Australia
Drop In Care Space was founded in 2020 by Sonny Jane, a neurodivergent, queer and disabled advocate who noticed something missing in the community.
Big Brothers and Sisters of Calgary
This past year, we empowered over 800 life-changing mentoring relationships for children and youth in and around Calgary who are facing adversity.
Canucks Autism Network (CAN)
CAN is dedicated to providing programs to individuals on the autism spectrum and their families, while promoting acceptance and inclusion through community engagement and training initiatives across BC and beyond.
Square Peg Society
We assist ASD adults in achieving this goal, by building confidence, pride and skills, within our community, and by increasing inclusion, engagement, and participation, within our community and with society at Square Peg Society.
TELUS Wise® Empowering you to stay safe in our digital world
TELUS Wise® is a free digital literacy education program that offers informative workshops and resources to help people of all ages have a positive experience as digital citizens.
FELICITY HOUSE
FELICITY HOUSE PROVIDES SOCIAL OPPORTUNITIES TO WOMEN WITH AUTISM.
The Stripped-Down Podcast by Myles Hass
An honest podcast hosted by two men, with guest speakers that talk about love, sex, relationships, dating, friendships, and more.
Center for Disease Control & Prevention
Spotlight On: Racial and Ethnic Differences in Children Identified with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
Forbs
How Race and Ethnicity Affect Diagnosis, Treatment and Support for Autistic Children and Adults
Autism Advocacy - STOP THE SHOCK
What's happening at the Judge Rotenberg Center?
In the Loop About Neurodiversity
THE ABLEIST HISTORY OF THE PUZZLE PIECE SYMBOL FOR AUTISM
Canadian Journal of Autism Equity
Established in December 2020, Canadian Journal of Autism Equity the is an open-access e-journal focused on critically engaging with a variety of equity discussions within the autism community and public policy
Spectrum
Spectrum is the go-to destination for the latest news and analysis about autism research and a springboard for scientists and clinicians to forge collaborations that deepen our understanding of autism.
Critical Neurodiversity
Critical Neurodiversity is a platform addressing critical perspectives on neurodiversity. It provides articles and discussions related to the intersection of neurodiversity and critical theory.
Autistic Revolution
Autistic Revolution is a website that focus on autism advocacy and awareness, promoting acceptance and understanding of neurodiversity.
Autism Acceptance Resources
Is a collection of resources related to autism acceptance, it includes articles, tools, and information supporting the neurodiversity movement.
Human Resources Professionals Association
HRPA's history of advocating for the human resources profession can be traced back over 40 years to the founding of the Personnel Association of Ontario (PAO) in 1979.
Government of Canada
Supporting Neurodiversity in the workplace - Defence Stories
EZRA
Breaking Myths About Neurodiversity in the Workplace - The benefits of cognitive diversity at work
The Conversation
Neurodiversity can be a workplace strength, if we make room for it
IN THE LOOP ABOUT NEURODIVERSITY
Cassandra Crosman is the creator of “In the Loop About Neurodiversity, a blog that addresses topics focused on neurodiversity.
Advocate for Persons with Disabilities Act
Establishes Alberta's Advocate for Persons with Disabilities and prescribes the appointment process for the Advocate, as well as its role and function and requirements to ensure accountability.
Neurodiversity Network (NN)
NN is a website of resources for neurodivergent job seekers and students, employers & universities, & the community.
Autistic Self Advocacy Network (ASAN)
ASAN is an organization that promotes the rights and self-advocacy of autistic individuals and offers resources, news, and information related to autism advocacy.
Autistic Women & Nonbinary Network (AWN)
AWN is a network that focuses on the unique experiences of autistic women and nonbinary individuals, the website include resources, community forums, and advocacy information.
The Musical Autist
To provide access to the arts and platforms for self-advocacy for musicians of all ages and abilities on the autism spectrum.
Diversity and Ability (D&A)
D&A is an award-winning social enterprise led by and for disabled people, paving the way for a future where everyone is welcomed and included
Canadian National Autism Foundation
autism resources by province - we do not necessarily support all organizations on this website!
Different Brains®
Strives to encourage understanding & acceptance of individuals who have variations in brain function and social behaviors known as neurodiversity.
Foundations for Divergent Minds (FDM)
FDM is a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit organization rooted in the principles of disability justice.
Communication FIRST
Communication FIRST is the only non-profit organization dedicated to protecting and advancing the civil rights of the more than 5 million children and adults in the United States who, due to disability or other condition, cannot rely on speech alone to be heard and understood.
The Autism Society
For 58 years and counting, the Autism Society, including our nationwide network of affiliates, connects people to the resources they need through education, advocacy, support, information and referral, and community programming.
Reframing Autism
We are an Autistic-led charity, reframing the understanding of Autism through education, resources and research, underpinned by our lived experience as Autistics.
Yellow Ladybugs
Yellow Ladybugs is an autistic-led, non-government organisation with strong bridges to the community. We are dedicated to the happiness, success and celebration of autistic girls and women.
Adaptive technologies can greatly benefit individuals with autism, ADHD, and other neurodiverse conditions. It's important to note that the effectiveness of adaptive technologies can vary from person to person, so it's recommended to read reviews and try multiple products to determine the most suitable tools and strategies for each individual's unique needs.
More Resources on Adaptive Technology:
The Guardian Newspaper
Bionic reading: could an ADHD-friendly hack turn me into a speed-reader?
BIONIC READING
With Bionic Reading®, we aim to promote reading and comprehension of textual content in a hectic and noisy world.
Enchroma
We're an independent, Berkeley, California-based company that develops leading patented lens technology to improve the lives of people with color vision deficiency (color blindness).
Loop Ear Plugs
Lean into everything you love that's loud, Try bold noise filtering earwear engineered for our high-volume world.
Orcam
Our mission is to enrich people's daily experiences with personal assistive handheld and wearable AI devices that increase confidence and independence.
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We know that Individuals on the Au spectrum can become a bit tongue-tied, with this understanding in mind we have specifically created a feedback section for you to send us your thoughts, wants, wishes, and opinions without having to come to us in person, contact us directly, and/or speak to us.
Your information will never be shared
TREATY 7 TERRITORY LAND ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS: In the spirit of respect, reciprocity, and truth, we honour and acknowledge Moh’kinsstis, and the traditional Treaty 7 territory and oral practices of the Blackfoot confederacy: Siksika, Kainai, Piikani, as well as the Iyarhe Nakoda and Tsuut’ina nations. We acknowledge that this territory is home to the Otipemisiwak Métis Government of the Métis Nation within Alberta District 6. Finally, we acknowledge all Nations – Indigenous and non – who live, work, and play on this land, and who honour and celebrate this territory. This sacred gathering place provides us with an opportunity to engage in and demonstrate leadership on reconciliation. Thank you for your enthusiasm and commitment to join our team on the lands of Treaty 7 territory. We also acknowledge this as the Métis’ homeland and the home of one of the largest communities of Inuit south of the 60th parallel.
*AFLF is not a law firm and does not provide legal advice or legal services. We provide self-help services at your specific direction.
