Connecting with the Autism Community: Essential Blogs to Follow
Discover the top autism blogs to read and connect with the vibrant autism community. Stay informed, inspired, and supported!
Best Autism Blogs to Explore
When seeking valuable insights and information about autism, exploring trusted autism blogs is an excellent way to connect with the autism community and gain diverse perspectives. In this section, we will explore two reliable sources for discovering the best autism blogs: Cross River Therapy's selection criteria and Healthline's top autism blogs of 2021.
Cross River Therapy Selection Criteria
According to Cross River Therapy, the selection of autism blogs was based on specific criteria to ensure that the chosen blogs provide valuable insights and information to help better understand autism, a complex behavior disorder. The blogs included cater to adults, parents, and teachers, and are continuously updated by parents and bloggers globally due to the ever-evolving nature of autism education and research. The criteria for evaluating these blogs include:
- Relevance of the content: The blogs provide up-to-date and relevant information about autism.
- Credibility of the authors: The bloggers are experienced individuals, parents, or professionals with expertise in the field of autism.
- Frequency of updates: The blogs are regularly updated to provide ongoing support and information.
- Engagement of the readership: The blogs have an active and engaged community of readers who contribute to discussions and share their experiences.
- Overall impact within the autism community: The blogs make a positive impact by providing valuable resources, support, and insights to the autism community.
Healthline's Top Autism Blogs of 2021
Healthline, a trusted source for health-related information, compiled a list of the best autism blogs of 2021. These blogs were chosen for their active intention to educate, inspire, and empower parents of autistic children, as stated by Healthline. While the specific selection criteria were not provided, the blogs featured on the list offer a wide range of perspectives and cover various aspects of autism, including personal experiences, parenting advice, educational resources, advocacy efforts, and the latest research and developments in the field of autism.
Exploring both Cross River Therapy's selection criteria and Healthline's top autism blogs of 2021 can provide a comprehensive and diverse range of autism blogs to read. These blogs serve as a valuable digital space where individuals can share their stories, challenges, and triumphs related to autism. By engaging with these blogs, readers can enhance their understanding of autism and gain insights from the lived experiences of others in the autism community.
Notable Autism Bloggers
In the autism community, there are several notable bloggers who provide valuable insights and perspectives on living with autism. These bloggers share their personal experiences, offer advice, and advocate for autistic individuals. Here are some noteworthy autism bloggers to follow:
Chris Bonnello
Chris Bonnello, also known as @autisticnotweird, is an international speaker, special education tutor, and author. He shares his journey as an autistic individual and provides advice on working with autistic children on his blog, as well as on social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. Chris wasn't diagnosed with autism until he was 25 years old, and his unique perspective offers valuable insights to both autistic individuals and those who work with them.
Joy Johnson
Joy Johnson, known as @joyfjohnson, is a Behavior Analyst, Inclusion Specialist, Autism Advocate, and PhD student. Her blog and Instagram explore current autism research and advocate for the voices of autistic individuals to be heard in research. Joy focuses on behavior management techniques, inclusion practices, and how to be the best advocate possible. Her expertise in the field of autism and dedication to amplifying autistic voices make her blog a valuable resource.
Jeremiah Josey
Jeremiah Josey, also known as @jercookingadventure, is a 21-year-old baker, model, author, and inspirational speaker. He shares his cooking creations on his YouTube show and has written a book about his personal experiences of being autistic. Jeremiah advocates for autistic individuals and has even modeled for Kohl's adaptive clothing line. Through his various platforms, he spreads awareness, understanding, and acceptance of autism.
Taylor Linloff
Taylor Linloff, also known as @aspirationalautistic, is a 25-year-old blogger from Nova Scotia. Her blog explores her experiences as an autistic individual and debunks popular autism myths and misconceptions. Taylor sheds light on the challenges and triumphs of living with autism, providing valuable insights and information to her readers. Her blog is a valuable resource for autistic individuals, their families, and those seeking a better understanding of autism.
Paige Layle
Paige Layle, popular on TikTok as @paigelayle, shares videos about being an eyelash technician, being autistic, and debunking misconceptions about autism. She focuses on topics such as late diagnoses of autism in girls and common misconceptions about autistic girls. Paige's content on TikTok provides an accessible platform to raise awareness and educate others about autism. Her unique perspective and dedication to dispelling myths make her a notable presence in the autism community.
By following these notable autism bloggers, individuals can gain valuable insights, support, and understanding regarding autism. Each blogger brings a unique perspective and contributes to the diverse voices within the autism community.
Insights from Autism Blogs
When it comes to gaining valuable insights and perspectives on autism, exploring autism blogs can be incredibly beneficial. These blogs provide a platform for individuals to share their personal experiences, knowledge, and stories related to autism. In this section, we will take a closer look at three notable autism blogs: The Autism Dad by Rob Gorski, Finding Cooper's Voice by Kate, and The Art of Autism.
The Autism Dad by Rob Gorski
The Autism Dad, written by Rob Gorski, offers a candid and honest portrayal of the daily experiences of raising three sons on the autism spectrum. Rob's blog provides valuable insights into the challenges, triumphs, and unique aspects of parenting children with autism
Rob's writing style is engaging and relatable, often sharing personal anecdotes and stories that resonate with his readers. His blog covers a wide range of topics, including therapy approaches, sensory issues, and advocating for individuals with autism. The Autism Dad serves as a valuable resource for parents and caregivers seeking guidance and support in their journey with autism.
Finding Cooper's Voice by Kate
Finding Cooper's Voice, written by Kate, is a heartfelt blog that provides a safe space for parents to connect, share, and celebrate the unique experiences of parenting a child with special needs. Kate's son, Cooper, is on the autism spectrum, and through her blog, she shares her personal experiences, triumphs, and struggles as she navigates the world of autism [2].
Kate's writing style is authentic and relatable, allowing readers to feel understood and supported. She addresses various topics related to autism, such as communication challenges, sensory sensitivities, and advocating for her son's needs. Finding Cooper's Voice offers a community of support for parents and caregivers who are on a similar journey with autism.
The Art of Autism
The Art of Autism showcases the creative abilities of individuals on the autism spectrum through various forms of art, including blog posts, visual art, poetry, book and film reviews, and video submissions. This platform provides a space for autistic individuals to express themselves and share their unique perspectives.
The blog features insightful articles that delve into different aspects of autism, highlighting the talents and strengths of autistic individuals. With a focus on creativity, The Art of Autism fosters understanding, acceptance, and appreciation for the diverse abilities within the autism community.
By exploring these autism blogs, individuals can gain a deeper understanding of the challenges, triumphs, and everyday experiences of autism. The diverse perspectives and personal stories shared on these blogs help to create a sense of community and support for individuals and families impacted by autism.
Influence of YouTube on Autism
YouTube has become a significant platform for sharing information and experiences related to autism spectrum disorder (ASD). It offers a diverse range of content that can be both informative and impactful. In this section, we will explore the influence of YouTube on autism, including the themes commonly found in ASD videos, the sentiments and stigmatization associated with these videos, and the need for a diverse online presence.
Themes in ASD YouTube Videos
One of the most common themes found in YouTube videos about autism is providing educational information about ASD characteristics. These videos aim to increase awareness and understanding of the condition among viewers. They cover a wide range of topics, including symptoms, diagnosis, treatment options, and strategies for supporting individuals with ASD. It is important to note that these videos typically do not focus on specific age groups or genders.
Sentiments and Stigmatization in ASD Videos
YouTube videos about ASD demonstrate a mixed sentiment, highlighting both positive and negative aspects of the condition. They often feature personal stories, experiences, and challenges faced by individuals with ASD and their families. These videos can provide insights into the daily lives of individuals on the autism spectrum, helping to foster empathy and understanding.
However, it is crucial to be aware that videos and comments on YouTube can sometimes stigmatize ASD. Portraying individuals with ASD as not being able to understand emotions and depicting ASD as a homogenous condition that only manifests in its most severe form can contribute to misconceptions and stereotypes. It is important to note that the use of damaging language and stigmatization in these videos is minimal.
The Need for Diverse Online Presence
To improve public perception and provide evidence-based information, there is a need for a diverse online presence in discussions about ASD on YouTube. Currently, only a small percentage of videos include healthcare professionals, and the representation of minority racial and ethnic groups is lacking. By increasing the participation of healthcare professionals and individuals from diverse backgrounds, YouTube can become a more inclusive platform that offers a broader range of perspectives and experiences related to ASD. This can help counteract stigmatization, provide accurate information, and promote a better understanding of autism in society.
YouTube has the potential to be a powerful tool for connecting individuals and communities within the autism community. By promoting educational content, fostering understanding and empathy, and ensuring a diverse online presence, YouTube can contribute to a more inclusive and supportive environment for individuals with ASD and their families.
Impactful Autism Influencers
In the world of autism advocacy and awareness, there are several influential individuals who have made a significant impact through their blogs and online presence. These autism influencers have dedicated themselves to sharing their personal experiences, insights, and resources to educate and support the autism community. Here are a few notable autism influencers that you should follow:
Jess: A Diary of a Mom
Jess, the creator of "A Diary of a Mom," is a popular social influencer and mother of an autistic daughter. Her blog provides a heartfelt account of her experiences raising a child with autism. Jess emphasizes the gift of having an individual with autism in one's life and believes that it broadens one's perspective. Her content sparks discussions on autism perceptions and challenges societal stereotypes. Through her blog, Jess encourages acceptance and understanding of individuals with autism.
Eileen Shaklee: Autism with a Side of Fries
Eileen Shaklee, the owner of French Fries, LLC, and a mother of an autistic son, runs the blog "Autism with a Side of Fries." Eileen focuses on the positive aspects of autism and aims to spread positivity and encourage acceptance through her content. Her blog provides a unique perspective on autism, highlighting the strengths and gifts of individuals on the spectrum. Eileen's uplifting approach resonates with many, inspiring others to see autism in a new light.
Autism Daddy by Frank Campagna
Frank Campagna, the father of a non-verbal, low-functioning autistic son, is the creator of "Autism Daddy." Through his blog, Frank aims to create awareness and encourage action for individuals with autism. He insists on the importance of society taking concrete actions to provide a better life for those with autism. Frank's blog offers a glimpse into the daily challenges faced by families affected by autism and provides valuable insights for both parents and caregivers.
Melissa: Autism Adventures
Melissa, a special education teacher, shares her expertise and resources for teaching kids with special needs through her blog, "Autism Adventures." With a focus on practical tips and strategies, Melissa's blog is a valuable resource for special education teachers looking to create inclusive and supportive classrooms. Her content provides practical guidance on various topics, including behavior management, individualized education plans, and sensory integration.
Kimock7 on YouTube
Kimock7 is a YouTuber known for his channel that centers around his life as a father of an autistic son. With over 66K subscribers, Kimock7's videos offer a glimpse into the challenges and triumphs of raising a child on the spectrum. His viral video, titled "16-Year Old with Autism Conversations with Dad," has contributed significantly to spreading autism awareness worldwide. Kimock7's honest and relatable content resonates with viewers and helps foster understanding and empathy for individuals with autism.
By following these impactful autism influencers, you can gain valuable insights, find support, and stay informed about the latest developments in the autism community. Their dedication and advocacy contribute to breaking down barriers and promoting a more inclusive society for individuals with autism.
