Blog

art collage, Unity in diversity through collaborative support and family connections in a colorful abstract setting

<p>The well-known phrase “It takes a village to rear a child” is rooted in an African proverb that reminds us of a simple but powerful truth. Our children flourish when surrounded by care, consistency, shared responsibility, and love that extends beyond the walls of a single household. </p><p>This proverb applies to all children but especially to our children with special needs who require additional support. The village of support includes parents and caregivers, siblings and extended family, autistic self-advocates, educators and school staff, therapists and medical professionals, faith and community leaders, coaches and mentors, social workers and case managers, nonprofit organizations, policymakers and advocates, and trusted friends and neighbors who show up consistently.&nbsp;</p><p>The ADSC aspires be a part of the village. The reality that this vision is materializing became apparent to me in a deeply personal way during a recent planning meeting for the Autism Dads Social Club. One of our co-leaders brought their children along. As the meeting wrapped up and conversations slowed, his autistic child looked at me and casually referred to me as “uncle.” In that moment, my heart warmed.We are not related by blood or in a biological sentence. We do not share a last name. But we are brothers in autism. Calling me “uncle” was not accidental. It reflected familiarity, trust, and belonging among dads that has extended to our families. It was a quiet but profound reminder of what ADSC is truly about.</p><p>Four years ago we were strangers. Today we are building a social club and something bigger. At its core, ADSC is about community—about ensuring that our children know they are surrounded by a wide, extended family on the journey who care about them, see them, and will show up for them. I am honored not to be a stranger in her life. I am proud to be an unc or uncle. <strong>I am grateful that our kids are growing up knowing our faces, our voices, and our presence.</strong></p><p>There is something beautiful about watching our children get to know one another—and us—as they grow. These relationships are forming in real time. They are learning that their world is not restricted but expansive. They have support beyond their immediate parents. For families navigating autism, community is not optional—it is essential.</p><p>Too often, parents feel isolated. Fathers, in particular, are told to be strong, silent, and self-contained. But our children need more than individual strength; they need collective care. They need adults who model connection, empathy, and mutual support. They need to see their parents leaning on others and standing together.</p><p>We must be intentional about cultivating community—not just for ourselves, but for our kids.</p><p>That means:</p><p>Showing up consistently<br>Allowing our children to be present in our spaces<br>Creating environments where our kids feel safe, known, and loved<br>When our children see us building community, they learn that they belong to something larger than themselves. They learn that help and mutual cooperation is normal. That connection is strength. That family can be chosen, grown, and sustained.</p><p>The village is not automatic. It must be created—carefully, patiently, and with purpose.</p><p>At ADSC, that is the work we are committed to doing. For our families. For our children. And for the next generation that will one day look around and know, without hesitation, that they were never alone.</p><p>Children thrive in environments where they feel loved and supported. Communities that foster strong connections among families and neighbors create a network of care and support. This network helps children develop self-esteem, resilience, and empathy. Positive interactions with community members teach children how to build relationships and manage emotions effectively.</p><p>Communities that celebrate diversity and promote inclusivity teach children to appreciate differences and embrace various cultures and perspectives. This understanding fosters a sense of acceptance and cooperation among children.</p><p>Moreover, having access to trusted adults outside of the family can offer additional emotional support. Teachers, mentors, and community leaders can all provide guidance and encouragement, helping children navigate the challenges they face as they grow.</p><figure id="figure-l6to2u4xvpmk3i02gv"><img id="l6to2u4xvpmk3i02gv" src="https://cdn.durable.co/getty/azvstJ47Ef5Cu8xqbmzmUpu5oyCIeoD4NhwMi9t77wtS570HzFT28NzpCNKNScvb.jpeg" alt="diverse community" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/getty/azvstJ47Ef5Cu8xqbmzmUpu5oyCIeoD4NhwMi9t77wtS570HzFT28NzpCNKNScvb.jpeg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></figure><p><br></p>

"It Takes a Village"

<h2>Understanding the Importance of Fathers in Autism Advocacy</h2>

<p>In recent years, the role of fathers in autism advocacy has gained significant attention. Fathers play a crucial role in shaping the experiences and outcomes for children on the autism spectrum. Their involvement in advocacy not only benefits their children but also enriches their personal understanding and strengthens family bonds.</p>

<figure id="figure-168j8juihhmk3ho0lj"><img id="168j8juihhmk3ho0lj" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/2218806082/photo/father-comforting-young-son-during-emotional-moment-in-park.jpg?b=1&s=2048x2048&w=0&k=20&c=GeAyVAy_OhWJGLvWA_-uhHkfDonjclB5GxTrNuPU0Gw=" alt="father child autism" class="object-cover bg-gray-100" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9"></figure>

<h3>Fathers as Advocates</h3>

<p>Fathers often approach advocacy with a unique perspective, driven by a desire to ensure their children receive the best possible care and opportunities. They can be strong voices in promoting awareness and acceptance within their communities. By participating in advocacy efforts, fathers can help dismantle stereotypes and misconceptions about autism.</p>

<p>Building a supportive network is one of the key responsibilities for fathers in advocacy. Whether through local support groups or online forums, connecting with other parents can provide valuable insights and encouragement. This network not only benefits their own family but also amplifies the collective voice advocating for autism acceptance and support.</p>

<h3>The Impact of Involvement</h3>

<p>Involvement in advocacy allows fathers to better understand the challenges and strengths of their children. This understanding is crucial in tailoring approaches to education and therapy, ensuring that their children receive support that is both effective and compassionate. Fathers who are hands-on in their advocacy often find a deeper connection with their children, fostering a nurturing environment at home.</p>

<figure id="figure-wuiemnfkbgmk3ho0lj"><img id="wuiemnfkbgmk3ho0lj" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1126305931/photo/father-and-son.jpg?b=1&s=2048x2048&w=0&k=20&c=T812ERhXJV5j02cRbff2z3_ZjaCsAeGcW830QIuDQ94=" alt="father playing child" class="object-cover bg-gray-100" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9"></figure>

<p>Moreover, fathers who actively engage in advocacy efforts often become role models within their communities. By sharing their experiences and knowledge, they inspire other fathers to step into advocacy roles. This ripple effect can lead to a more inclusive society, where autism is understood and accepted as part of the diverse human experience.</p>

<h3>Challenges and Opportunities</h3>

<p>While the role of fathers in autism advocacy is vital, it is not without challenges. Balancing work, family life, and advocacy can be demanding. However, many fathers find that the rewards of being involved far outweigh the difficulties. Advocacy provides a platform for fathers to learn and grow alongside their children, often leading to personal development and fulfillment.</p>

<p>There are numerous ways fathers can become more involved. From attending workshops and seminars to participating in autism awareness events, opportunities abound for fathers to make a difference. Social media and online platforms also offer accessible avenues for fathers to share their stories and connect with others globally.</p>

<figure id="figure-les5tm2sfmmk3ho0lj"><img id="les5tm2sfmmk3ho0lj" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/172427597/photo/conference-or-meeting-with-elementary-school-teachers-students-and-parents.jpg?b=1&s=2048x2048&w=0&k=20&c=Y8e9GForHKI-x85A3yDUODBWdThCwS6uQBP5kt3SBTs=" alt="father support group" class="object-cover bg-gray-100" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9"></figure>

<h3>Conclusion: Embracing the Role</h3>

<p>In conclusion, the role of fathers in autism advocacy is indispensable. Their unique perspectives and unwavering support can significantly impact their children's lives and the broader autism community. By embracing this role, fathers not only advocate for their children but also contribute to a more understanding and inclusive world.</p>

<p>As society continues to evolve in its understanding of autism, the voices of fathers will remain vital in championing acceptance and equality. Encouraging more fathers to engage in advocacy will undoubtedly lead to a brighter future for those on the autism spectrum.</p>

The Role of Fathers in Autism Advocacy

Outdoor, food drive and group of volunteers with help, goals and donations at charity event in park. Non profit, happy and NGO people in field in nature for community service project in collaboration

<h2>The Gift of Giving<br></h2><p>As Thanksgiving reminds us, gratitude is more than saying “thank you”—it’s showing appreciation through action. For many dads raising children on the autism spectrum, this season of giving is the perfect time to nurture empathy and community awareness in ways that feel natural and meaningful for our kids. As Autism Dads, we hope to model what it means to give back and to serve the community.</p><p>Acts of kindness—whether it’s helping prepare a meal for a neighbor, donating gently used toys, making thank-you cards for teachers, or volunteering at a local event—help our children connect the idea of gratitude to real-world experiences. When we include them in these activities, even in small ways, we teach that kindness is something we practice, not just something we talk about.</p><p>Volunteering together also strengthens family bonds and provides valuable opportunities to model compassion, patience, and teamwork. These moments help children on the spectrum feel proud of their contributions and more connected to the community around them. By participating in thoughtful activities, families can bond while making a positive impact on those around them.</p><figure id="figure-64rk54lt1emhslvpvk"><img id="64rk54lt1emhslvpvk" src="https://cdn.durable.co/getty/35mcdPmd8lvc97FJcr3HtLaO9htCGbCoMfpGWrSP1piIiJULOuj9Ig7uYxWg3mnQ.jpeg" alt="father child volunteering" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/getty/35mcdPmd8lvc97FJcr3HtLaO9htCGbCoMfpGWrSP1piIiJULOuj9Ig7uYxWg3mnQ.jpeg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></figure><h2>Choosing the Right Activities</h2><p>When selecting activities, it's essential to consider your child's interests and sensory preferences. Some children may enjoy hands-on activities, while others might prefer quieter, more structured tasks. Here are a few ideas to get started:</p><ul><li>Crafting homemade cards for a local nursing home<br>Gather art supplies and let your child design colorful, heartfelt cards for residents. This simple act of kindness encourages creativity and connection.</li><li>Participating in a community clean-up day<br>Cleaning a local park or playground gives children a sense of ownership and pride in caring for shared spaces. You can bring noise-canceling headphones and make it a short, focused outing.</li><li>Donating toys or clothes to a children’s charity<br>Let your child help choose items to donate. Talk about how these gifts will make another child’s holiday brighter—an easy way to connect empathy to action.</li><li>Baking treats for first responders or teachers<br>Cooking together promotes sensory play and teamwork, and delivering the baked goods helps kids practice gratitude and social interaction.</li><li>Helping stock a food pantry<br>Many organizations allow families to assist with sorting or packing items. Labeling and organizing donations can be an enjoyable hands-on task for detail-oriented kids.</li></ul><p>Each of these activities can be tailored to suit your child's unique needs and interests, ensuring a positive and engaging experience.</p><h2>Volunteering in the Special Needs Community</h2><p>Connecting with local special needs communities can enhance the impact of your holiday giving activities. Engage with local organizations or support groups that focus on serving youth and adults with special needs--Easter Seals Greater Houston, The Arc of Texas, Disability Rights Texas, Coalition of Texans with Disabilities (CTD), Hope for Three, Achilles Houston, Be A Ninth Wonder, and of course the Autism Dads Social Club. Participating in events or fundraisers can provide a sense of belonging and purpose for both dads and their neurotypical and neurodiverse children.</p><p>By inviting them to be involved in the community and to serve,&nbsp; you not only support important causes but also help your child develop social skills and confidence in new environments.</p><figure id="figure-vhn5kwco5xmhslvzq4"><img id="vhn5kwco5xmhslvzq4" src="https://cdn.durable.co/getty/5pzFEq623emlqBHO4cn7wmvMJ3bZVZQAU4Nc7wfwlb14yoyEcyCNlhEegeV1NuL1.jpeg" alt="community event" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/getty/5pzFEq623emlqBHO4cn7wmvMJ3bZVZQAU4Nc7wfwlb14yoyEcyCNlhEegeV1NuL1.jpeg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></figure><h2>Reflecting on the Experience</h2><p>After participating in service activities, take time to reflect on the experience with your child. Discuss what they enjoyed, what they learned, and how they felt during each activity. This reflection can reinforce the value of empathy and giving, further strengthening the bond between dads and their autistic children.</p><p>Encouraging open communication and sharing feelings can create a safe space for children to express themselves, fostering emotional growth and understanding.</p><h2>Building a Tradition of Empathy</h2><p>By showing up to serve during the holidays and throughout the year,&nbsp; you can create a tradition of empathy that lasts beyond the holiday season. These experiences can become cherished memories that enrich your family's life and strengthen your connection with one another.</p><p>Whether through crafting, storytelling, or community involvement, the key is to focus on meaningful interactions that celebrate empathy and understanding. Together, dads and their autistic children can make a lasting impact on the world around them.</p>

Fostering Empathy: Teaching our Autistic Kids about Service and Giving

<h2>Meet Listen-2-Me ABA</h2><p>We’re grateful to Listen to Me ABA for being a title sponsor for the 2025 Autism Family Costume Party. Partnerships like this help us connect families with real people and real services, and we’re excited for the chance to bring caregivers and providers into the same room. <em>The Autism Dads Social Club does not endorse any particular company or service provider. Our aim is to introduce families to resources and welcome them to choose the service that best suits them.</em></p><p>As Listen to Me ABA’s story shows, many ABA founders and professionals become acquainted with autism through parenting. Albert, a dad whose journey with his son led him to become a BCBA and CEO of an ABA company, is one of several parents in our local network who turned personal experience into service to the autism community. In the Q&amp;A below, we ask questions that helps readers become acquainted with Listen-2-Me ABA.&nbsp;</p><h3>Why was Listen-2-Me ABA founded?&nbsp;</h3><p>As a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) who has worked with large organizations, I often found that the voices of both practitioners and families were underrepresented. For example, I strongly believe in providing robust parent training—so that families can actively support their children outside of scheduled sessions. However, many organizations discourage this in favor of prioritizing staff-led, 1:1 treatment hours that maximize billable time.</p><p>To me—both as a BCBA and as a parent—the central mission should be empowering parents and equipping them with a deeper understanding of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). This doesn’t mean reducing the intensity of clinical interventions, but rather expanding their impact: children receive their therapeutic services and parents implement those same principles continuously in everyday life. In my experience, when parents and professionals collaborate, progress is far more sustainable and meaningful.</p><p>My philosophy is simple: parents and BCBAs working together create real change. True progress emerges not from top-down mandates, but from reciprocal, respectful relationships between families and organizations. It is through that partnership that we can make a difference that truly lasts.<br></p><figure id="figure-k1zisqjt5rmgrf52bm"><img id="k1zisqjt5rmgrf52bm" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/38cx0OtXB8AXg485SzisNjYYgbAteDrkzg7SI3mFc9MGS99Vw0al4190B0IHseph.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="1:1" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/38cx0OtXB8AXg485SzisNjYYgbAteDrkzg7SI3mFc9MGS99Vw0al4190B0IHseph.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>How did you choose the name “Listen-2- Me ABA”?&nbsp;</h3><p>Growing up, my son would often say, “Listen to me”—especially when he was engaging in attention‑seeking behaviors that others might label inappropriate. In my training and ABA experience, I was taught to “ignore” behaviors that didn’t meet a strict definition of acceptable.</p><p>Then one day, something shifted. I realized: my son was trying to communicate, and his available tools were those very behaviors we were ignoring. He wasn’t demanding attention for its own sake—he was inviting connection. From that moment, I began to see that children with autism don’t want to be dismissed or overlooked—they want to be heard, understood, and engaged.</p><p>Children with autism are not inherently unsocial; quite the opposite—they crave interaction, especially with the people who matter the most: their parents. That insight inspired the name “Listen‑2‑Me.” Through this work, my mission is to empower parents, providers, and communities to truly listen to our children—to support their passions, nurture their growth, and build meaningful relationships founded in respect and understanding.</p><h3>What makes your ABA approach unique for families in our local community?&nbsp;</h3><p>We place our highest priority on teaching children functional communication, because our greatest hope is for our young learners to express themselves clearly to their parents. As a father, there is nothing more rewarding than hearing my son say, “I love you.” That simple phrase motivates me every day.</p><p>My goal is to train our staff to teach expressive language—whether through words, gestures, or natural communication—so parents can hear their children’s hearts. We believe in using natural language throughout our instruction, embedding communication in everyday moments rather than limiting it to formal sessions.</p><p>Our mission is to empower children to communicate, parents to understand, and our community to support growth, connection, and love.</p><figure id="figure-cryvr7arnmgrffhzq"><img id="cryvr7arnmgrffhzq" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/0xcAyKC75sMSgFJFtFoxBuYul54lO5rau6775WoGiXfLi509THi1GbUGoAVYOU42.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="1:1" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/0xcAyKC75sMSgFJFtFoxBuYul54lO5rau6775WoGiXfLi509THi1GbUGoAVYOU42.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>How do you involve parents and caregivers in therapy—and what does progress look like week to week?</h3><p><br>We believe that parents should be deeply involved in treatment at every possible level. To that end, we offer group parent trainings via telehealth so that caregivers can participate monthly, learn new strategies, and feel supported. We also maintain internal communication platforms where parents can view their child’s progress in real time during therapy sessions.</p><p>One of our core commitments as an organization is to accept fewer cases per BCBA so that staff can devote more hours to parent training, ensuring that parents have access to someone who can answer questions, monitor progress, and provide ongoing guidance.</p><h3>How would you describe your care team, approach, and core values?&nbsp;</h3><p>My mother taught me a core value: always do the right thing, no matter what. As CEO, I carry that with me in every decision. I am constantly thinking about my kiddos and our staff—making sure each learner receives the best treatment possible. This means staying current with evidence‑based practices and being willing to innovate when it benefits our learners.</p><p>For instance, we recently established a new department focused on social skills, using virtual reality (VR) as a tool to give learners a safe, engaging environment to practice real‑world interaction. Research has shown that VR interventions can significantly improve social skills in children and adolescents with autism. In systematic reviews, VR has been shown to support learners in both developing complex social interactions and reinforcing fundamental social behaviors.</p><p>Another of my fundamental values is transparency. When something isn’t working, we don’t shy away—we have tough, honest conversations with parents. We discuss what’s missing, what adjustments are needed, and how we can partner more effectively to push for the progress we know is possible.</p><h3>What goals do you commonly target?&nbsp;</h3><p><strong>We seek to engage parents. </strong>&nbsp;We are committed to conducting monthly virtual meetings so that parents have a dedicated space to ask questions, receive support, and access information about ABA and community resources. Our aim is to connect with parents for at least one hour per month. These gatherings do more than provide information—they foster a community: parents get to meet and support one another, and we have an opportunity to offer honest and transparent updates about progress, challenges, and next steps. Our ultimate aspiration is to stay connected to families, cultivating positive and collaborative relationships within the community we serve.</p><p>One of the first five families to join us had a young boy who was only using “more” and “I want” statements. When the family saw our mission on the website—especially our commitment to teaching natural expressive language—they asked how we put that into practice. I explained the difference between simple requesting (“I want…” / “more”) and teaching tacts—labels or comments about what a child observes in their environment.&nbsp;</p><p>The family was excited and chose Listen‑2‑Me as their ABA provider. After 18 months with us, we are preparing to graduate him from ABA services: his language is now natural, and he plays and interacts comfortably with general education students at school.</p><p>Because this family was one of the first to believe in our mission, we had the privilege of witnessing his full growth. The mother is overjoyed that her son is doing the same things other children are doing in his general education classroom—playing, talking, participating. It’s moments like this that reaffirm why we do this work: to help children not only learn, but truly belong.</p>

Learning to Listen - The Story of Listen-2-Me ABA

Parent-Child Interaction in Autism Therapy

<h2>Understanding Autism</h2><p>As a father, learning that your child has autism can be a journey filled with emotions, questions, and the overwhelming need to understand. Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is often surrounded by myths and misconceptions, which can be confusing and misleading. This guide aims to debunk some of these myths, providing clarity and support for dads navigating this journey.</p><figure id="figure-qvoceye5inmfijl2ry"><img id="qvoceye5inmfijl2ry" src="https://cdn.durable.co/getty/d9TsoWRn2qOt1U0USIwAruIbNrLWY80q4JGptZzzHALAPsiWYz4PV9NNL2muKLJh.jpeg" alt="father child autism" title="father child autism" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="null" data-positiony="null" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/getty/d9TsoWRn2qOt1U0USIwAruIbNrLWY80q4JGptZzzHALAPsiWYz4PV9NNL2muKLJh.jpeg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>Myth 1: Autism Is Caused by Bad Parenting</h3><p>One of the most persistent myths is that autism is the result of bad parenting. This myth can place undue guilt on parents, particularly fathers who often feel a strong responsibility for their child's development. <strong>Autism is a developmental disorder with neurological and genetic components</strong>. It is not caused by parenting style. Understanding this can relieve some of the pressure and enable you to focus on supporting your child effectively.</p><h3>Myth 2: All Autistic People Are Alike</h3><p>The phrase "If you’ve met one person with autism, you’ve met one person with autism" underscores the diversity within the autism spectrum. Every individual has unique strengths and challenges. As a dad, recognizing and celebrating your child’s individuality is vital. This personalized understanding helps in tailoring support that addresses specific needs, fostering growth and happiness.</p><figure id="figure-rkbdz740kimfijlbv5"><img id="rkbdz740kimfijlbv5" src="https://cdn.durable.co/getty/29BCEuM0lCkoCpH6GiOj3SSbTiPk4QVQYO2GLNiBFyzh7gHBcfJkPoHdebXOK7dN.jpeg" alt="autism spectrum" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/getty/29BCEuM0lCkoCpH6GiOj3SSbTiPk4QVQYO2GLNiBFyzh7gHBcfJkPoHdebXOK7dN.jpeg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></figure><h3>Myth 3: Autistic Individuals Lack Empathy</h3><p>A common stereotype is that people with autism cannot feel empathy. In reality, many autistic individuals experience emotions deeply and are capable of empathy. They may express it differently or have difficulty interpreting social cues, but this doesn’t mean they lack understanding or compassion. Encouraging open communication and emotional expression can help bridge this gap.</p><h3>Myth 4: Autism Can Be Cured</h3><p>There is no cure for autism, but that doesn’t mean individuals cannot lead fulfilling lives. With the right support and interventions, people with autism can thrive in their personal and professional lives. <strong>Focusing on strengths rather than seeking a "cure"</strong> allows you to help your child develop skills and pursue interests that enrich their life.</p><figure id="figure-vq672ojn4amfijlno3"><img id="vq672ojn4amfijlno3" src="https://cdn.durable.co/getty/38LjWw4ZXz4sUnllmALJYgWvAM3vJC9QAyrWanb7Rok9Px7pAAlizTlA3RGzzJok.jpeg" alt="happy child playing" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/getty/38LjWw4ZXz4sUnllmALJYgWvAM3vJC9QAyrWanb7Rok9Px7pAAlizTlA3RGzzJok.jpeg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></figure><h2>Supporting Your Child</h2><p>As a dad, your role in supporting your autistic child is crucial. Here are some actionable steps you can take:</p><ul><li>Educate yourself about autism through reliable sources.</li><li>Engage in therapy sessions and interventions actively.</li><li>Create a supportive and structured environment at home.</li><li>Celebrate milestones, no matter how small they may seem.</li></ul><h3>The Importance of Community</h3><p>Connecting with other parents of autistic children can provide support and shared experiences that are invaluable on this journey. Whether through local support groups or online communities, finding a network of understanding individuals can offer advice, empathy, and encouragement. Below is an image of autism dads meeting at a local sports Bar in Katy, Texas.</p><figure id="figure-ycfhss92bhmfijlytp"><img id="ycfhss92bhmfijlytp" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/28zCUIlpo7eLboMwZcU9y4ObycuPNiCrI6HUiJML4Vls1AxQHf9ZUJTL9RMMe0as.png" alt="support group meeting" title="support group meeting" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="null" data-positiony="null" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/28zCUIlpo7eLboMwZcU9y4ObycuPNiCrI6HUiJML4Vls1AxQHf9ZUJTL9RMMe0as.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h2>Embracing the Journey: A Dad's Closing Charge</h2><p>Debunking myths is only the beginning. The real work—and joy—is building a life with your child where understanding replaces fear and curiosity replaces assumptions. Autism is not a verdict; it’s a different way of processing the world. When you lead with patience, presume competence, and interpret behavior as communication, you give your child room to grow on their timeline, not anyone else’s.</p><p>Your presence matters more than perfection. Show up to the appointment, the IEP meeting, the meltdown, and the celebration. Learn a few strategies (visual schedules, AAC basics, sensory supports), but also learn your child—their interests, cues, and strengths. Become their everyday advocate: ask good questions, push for services when needed, and invite professionals to partner with your family rather than speak over it. Listen to autistic voices, too; they’re your best guides for what dignity and inclusion look like in practice.</p><p>You’re not in this alone. Build a circle: your partner, extended family, teachers, therapists, and other dads who “get it.” Community turns hard days into doable days, and it keeps you resilient for the long haul. Take respite without guilt; sustainable fatherhood is a marathon, not a sprint.</p><p>Fatherhood on the autism journey is about building a world where your child can flourish. Bring your steady presence, your willingness to learn, and your love. That combination changes outcomes—and it changes culture.</p>

Debunking Autism Myths: A Guide for Dads

<h3><strong>George’s Experience with the Autism Dads Social Club</strong></h3><p>Parenting a child on the autism spectrum can be a journey filled with joy and challenges. While every family’s story is unique, the power of connection with other dads who “get it” cannot be overstated.</p><p>George, a valued member, recently shared what being part of the Autism Dads Social Club has meant to him since he started attending our mixers and events. His reflections capture the heart of what we envisioned when starting our club and why our community exists. We invite every dad in similar shoes to join us on the autism journey. We are family.</p><figure id="figure-voxa6x66kkme96tbtp"><img id="voxa6x66kkme96tbtp" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/1e5JwWvxHux64vYd27qQsvyswAF7DtpUpmfl9cFv9HCpbuifO8r1IZzObyseCLqY.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: center center;" data-corners="medium" data-aspect="1:1" data-caption="" data-positionx="null" data-positiony="null" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/1e5JwWvxHux64vYd27qQsvyswAF7DtpUpmfl9cFv9HCpbuifO8r1IZzObyseCLqY.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: center center;"></figure><p>&nbsp;<br><strong>What has being a member of the Autism Dads Social Club meant to you?</strong><br></p><p>"Being part of the club has really expanded my understanding of being a parent of an autistic child. Having a space to engage with other dads is a great opportunity to see the commonalities we all share. I appreciate the opportunity to fellowship and talk about the challenges and rewards that come with parenting. The club allows me insight into my family's needs by hearing the stories of other dads.”</p><figure id="figure-jfh038z6yqme971515"><img id="jfh038z6yqme971515" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/30P1wIrIIrqW2twJcfH8OPjwgz7C942zdBu7ILEQSLX3kOKGdY7z0kdQPANxFJ7j.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="1:1" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/30P1wIrIIrqW2twJcfH8OPjwgz7C942zdBu7ILEQSLX3kOKGdY7z0kdQPANxFJ7j.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: center center;"></figure><p><br><strong>What have you enjoyed about the social events or family outings?</strong></p><p>“The events give me a few hours to step away from the demands of supporting my kids. Being able to switch into relaxed mode with other dads for a short time recharges my ability to be the best parent I can be. Returning from one of the outings I feel eager to play with my kids and give them happy memories like the ones I have of my dad.”</p><figure id="figure-wsanuuiuhmme97dsde" class=""><img id="wsanuuiuhmme97dsde" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/23G7zrBcUmOXMd20kaqGgoVsW31ttgBcBz4jsofxXOEIofJIgFjdNzyAb5UhmJKi.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/23G7zrBcUmOXMd20kaqGgoVsW31ttgBcBz4jsofxXOEIofJIgFjdNzyAb5UhmJKi.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><p><br><strong>What would you say to encourage other dads to take advantage of the opportunity to connect with our group?</strong></p><p><br>“I remember the apprehension I had about attending my first meeting. There is a masculine aversion to seeking help, and at first glance, the club looked to be a support group—a place for uncomfortable emotions and exposure. After my first event, I realized that what the club does is provide a place for dads just to escape the pressure that comes with autistic parenting. It allows us time to reflect on what we can do to be better dads. For me, it loosens the tight grip I find myself holding on to as a parent. In turn, I can better understand what my kids and family need from me as a dad.”</p><h3>&nbsp;<br><strong>Why George’s Story Matters</strong></h3><p><br>George’s words remind us that the simple act of connecting can be meaningful and transformative. The Autism Dads Social Club isn’t just about events—it’s about creating a safe, pressure-free space where dads can share, laugh, and recharge. It’s about realizing you’re not alone. You have a community walking beside you.</p><p>If you’ve been hesitant to attend our mixers or events, take George’s advice: <strong>Just show up</strong>. We invite you to join us at any of our dads' mixers, family outings, or community events. Learn more about our mission, events, and how to get involved by visiting our website: autismdadssocialclub.org.</p>

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