Autism Resources
Autism doesn’t look the same for every child . They have unique strengths alongside challenges, and with the right support, they can thrive.
These resources reflect what I, Dr. Jessica Snowden Patel, share with families in my practice: affirming perspectives, practical tools, and ways to build understanding while celebrating strengths.
People to Follow
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Kayleen’s Autistic Angle
Kayleen is an autistic therapist who many know from Love on the Spectrum. I love how she explains the ebb and flow of autistic experience — why someone can handle something one day and not the next. Her perspective is validating, down-to-earth, and incredibly easy for parents to connect with.
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Elyse Myers
Elyse is a storyteller, comedian, and autistic woman who brings humor and realness to talking about neurodivergence. I love her style because it’s disarming and warm — she helps people see the joy, exhaustion, and beauty of everyday life through a neurodivergent lens.
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Neurowild (Emily Hammond)
Neurowild creates some of my favorite visuals explaining autism, ADHD, sensory differences, sibling conversations, and more. They are autistic and ADHD (AuDHD) and do an incredible job translating complex ideas into clear, compassionate graphics that parents and kids alike can understand.
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Mrs. Speechie P
Mrs. Speechie P is a speech-language pathologist who was recently diagnosed as autistic herself. I love how she combines clinical expertise with lived experience. Her resources are especially useful for helping parents and professionals better understand neurodiversity in everyday, practical ways.
Books
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Uniquely Human: A Different Way of Seeing Autism— Barry Prizant
One of the only books about autism not written by an autistic author that is still embraced by the autistic community. I love how Prizant reframes behaviors — there isn’t a single trait that “equals” autism or not. For example, people often bring up hand flapping, but have you ever seen a lottery winner flap their hands in joy?
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NeuroTribes — Steve Silberman
A fascinating and important history of autism. It’s powerful to see how our understanding has evolved, but it can also be heartbreaking to read about the mistreatment autistic people have endured. It’s essential context for where we are today.
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Unmasking Autism: Discovering the New Faces of Neurodiversity— Devon Price
A meaningful book for shifting away from stereotypes. Devon Price, who is autistic, shares what masking feels like and why unmasking matters. It helps readers understand autism beyond surface traits.
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An Early Start for Your Child with Autism — Sally Rogers, Geraldine Dawson & Laurie Vismara
A practical, research-based guide for parents of toddlers, introducing the Early Start Denver Model (ESDM). Playful, affirming, and doable in everyday routines.
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Start Here: A Guide for Parents of Autistic Kids — Autistic Self Advocacy Network (ASAN)
Written by autistic adults for parents. Short, accessible, and a perfect entry point for families new to autism.
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Welcome to the Autistic Community — ASAN
A gentle, positive introduction designed for autistic people but just as helpful for parents.
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Different Thinkers: Autism — Katia Fredriksen, Ph.D. & Yael Rothman, Ph.D.
A newer, child-friendly book that explains autism with affirming language. Great for siblings, peers, and autistic kids themselves.
Podcasts
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Uniquely Human Podcast — Barry Prizant and Dave Finch share conversations about autism, family, and community.
Videos
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Websites & Programs
Neurowild
Neurowild creates some of our favorite visuals explaining autism, ADHD, sensory differences, sibling conversations, and more. These illustrated resources are available for purchase from the Neurowild store.
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Why we don’t recommend Autism Speaks:
Even though Autism Speaks is a familiar name, their history of harmful campaigns and lack of autistic representation means they don’t reflect the values of the autistic community. Families often find more supportive, accurate resources from autistic-led groups, including ASAN