World Autism Awareness Day Is April 2

Hey teens, have you ever heard someone say: he is so autistic? I'm sure you've heard similar phrases, like weird, dumb or retarded. People everywhere are labeling and ostracizing others for being different. In honor of World Autism Awareness Day, let's celebrate and learn how to better support neuro-diverse learners who simply don't "fit the norm."

Same but Different offers first-hand insight into what it's like to be a teen with a twin brother who has autism. With help in the form of fictional names and voices, Ryan and RJ share teen experiences of body changes, friendship, dancing, dating and more!

Temple Grandin is an amazing film that tells the story of the life of Temple Grandin; it creatively depicts how brains operate visually and differently, and that's okay!

How to Talk to An Autistic Kid is an impressive book created by a Midwestern teen from Indiana. While he may have some social difficulties, he's happy and talented, and he wants the world to learn how to deal and cope with his behavior.

Let's face it: name-calling and calling out differences don't help build a compassionate or better world. Get inspired with these books. Look past labels by supporting the strengths of teens with autism rather than focusing on their differences.