Simone Gordon (right) and her son, Jay. Gordon says that many autistic children are highly intelligent, creative, and have a deep focus on subjects they love. She also suggested that special needs parents on a fixed income can prevent caregiver burnout by connecting with respite care services, taking at least two days out of the month to treat themselves, or by doing something such as taking a jog in the park. Photo credit: Photo courtesy of Simon Gordon

March, which is Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month (DDAM) in the United States, is an ideal time to learn more about autism.

“About 1 in 36 children has been identified with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) according to estimates from CDC’s Autism and Developmental Disabilities Monitoring (ADDM) Network,” the CDC reports.

According to Autism Speaks, a nonprofit organization, 1 in 100 children around the world are diagnosed with autism.

Simone Gordon, a single parent who cares for her nonverbal son, Jay in New Jersey knows what it is like to raise a 15-year-old who faces severe autism. Gordon, also known as “The Black Fairy Godmother,” simultaneously runs The Black Fairy Godmother Foundation, a nonprofit providing immediate aid and long-term support to those in need.

Not only does Gordon raise her son and help others, she advocates for other children with autism.

“Advocating for children with autism involves ensuring they receive the right support, services, and opportunities to thrive in school, healthcare, and daily life,” said Gordon.

Gordon highlights resources and advocacy tips that can provide insight about autistic children to support their parents, caregivers, educate peers, and inform supportive community members to increase education.

Gordon listed six key strategies:

1.       Advocate for Early Intervention and Diagnosis

Push for early screenings and evaluations if developmental delays are noticeable. Learn about local resources (Early Intervention programs, therapy services, etc.). Challenge insurance denials to ensure coverage for necessary therapies.

2.       Secure Educational Support and IEPs

Work with the school to develop an Individualized Education Program (IEP) or 504 Plan to meet their learning needs. Request speech, occupational, and behavioral therapy services if needed. Know your rights under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) to ensure schools provide appropriate accommodations. Push for inclusive classrooms while ensuring the child gets the support they need.

3.       Spread Awareness and Combat Stigma

Educate teachers, caregivers, and community members about autism acceptance, not just awareness. Encourage neurodiversity-friendly environments in schools, workplaces, and public spaces. Share personal stories to humanize autism beyond medical definitions.

4.       Teach Self-Advocacy and Independence

  Encourage children with autism to express their needs and emotions in ways that work for them. Provide social skills training, communication tools such as AAC devices, sign language, or visual schedules to empower their independence. Respect their unique strengths and differences. Advocacy isn’t about “fixing” autism, but ensuring they get the right support.

5.       Become an Advocate

Legislative and Policy Advocacy Support laws protect disability rights, such as the Autism CARES Act and IDEA funding. Speak at school board meetings, town halls, and state legislatures to push for better funding, services, and research. Encourage employers to create inclusive workplaces for autistic adults.

6.       Tap into Advocacy groups and Legal Aid Clinics

Connect with advocacy groups and legal aid programs in your area. Gordon stated that an autism group called NJ Autism Moms shares support, tips, and advocacy. Rutgers Law Clinic’s H.E.A.L. (Health, Education, Advocacy and Law) Program helps to fight for special needs children and their families.

Additional insight about autism can be gleaned from the CDC.  Materials and resources  https://www.cdc.gov/autism/communication-resources/index.html are provided.

Parental Insight About Autistic Children

Gordon shared knowledge for others who may not know much about children who have been diagnosed with autism.

“Autistic children deserve to be included in schools, social settings, and communities. Small accommodations such as providing quiet spaces or alternative communication methods can make a big impact to support their inclusion,” she stated.

“I’d love for more people to understand that autism is not a problem to be fixed—it’s a different way of experiencing the world,” Gordon said.

She further explained that autism is a spectrum. No two autistic children are the same. Some may be highly verbal, while others are non-speaking. Some may excel in specific areas, such as math or art, while others struggle with sensory overload.

Gordon mentioned that meltdowns, including stimming (like hand-flapping or rocking), or avoiding eye contact are not “bad behaviors.” These are ways autistic children regulate emotions and process their environment. Many autistic children want to connect with others but may struggle with social cues or sensory overload.

“Be patient and meet them where they are,” said Gordon.

 The autism awareness advocate mentioned that sudden changes can cause anxiety for autistic children. Providing structure, visual schedules, and clear expectations can help them to feel more secure. Gordon further mentioned that sensory sensitivities such as bright lights; loud noises; strong smells; or even certain textures can feel overwhelming or even painful.

“Creating sensory-friendly environments makes a huge difference,” she added.

 Follow Gordon on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theblackfairygodmotherofficial?igsh=bHZ6dWlobHdkN2hu.

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