This February, the Autism Society network is thrilled to focuses on love and relationships within and surrounding the autism community, as well as bonds that we form between one another. Family bonds, community support, and romantic relationships are strengthened through social skills, open communication, opportunity, and aligned with personal goals–which is why we are dedicated to creating opportunities for relationships development across the lifespan.

The Autism Society hosts nearly 300 social events for over 3700 teens each year, in conjunction with an additional 320 family trips and outings serving 36,000 individuals. Family members dedicated to growing relationships also attended our specialized groups, including 2,800 mothers, 815 fathers, and 1344 siblings. The continuation of events like these, in addition to events designed for autistic adults attending support groups to help them to socialize, learn, and lean on one another, is why we have compiled a digital toolkit of resources, information, referrals and supports to help autistic individuals and their families navigate love, relationships and community supports this February.

Social Relationship Resources:

• Autism Society’s Guide to Social Relationships
• Indiana University Bloomington’s Making (And Keeping) Friend’s Model
• Pairing: Building Relationships Before Placing Demand by Autism Society of North Carolina
• Healthy Relationships Curriculum

Family – Parent & Sibling Relationship Resources:

• Autism Parenting Magazine’s How to Enhance Social Interaction
• Autism Society’s Guide to Siblings
• Teaching Communication Skills

Romantic Relationship Resources:

• Relationships & Sexuality: A Handbook For and By Autistic People 
• The Birds & The Bees by Sarah Curtiss of the University of Delaware
• Autism in Love

Affiliates in Action:

• Autism Society of Nebraska: Peers Social Skills Series & Community Events
• Autism Society of East Tennessee: Autism Social Scene
• Autism Society of Greater Wisconsin: Annual Family Reception
• Autism Society of Greater New Orleans: Beautiful Arrangement Social Skills Classes
• Autism Society of Greater Cincinnati: Teen Time Group

We encourage you to contact the Autism Society affiliate in your area, as our affiliates are often the most knowledgeable about local services. To find an affiliate in your area, click here.

The Autism Society’s National Contact Center staff are here to get you to the resources you need and to make this time a smooth, happy transition to a great school year ahead! Our Information & Referral Specialists are available Monday to Friday, 9:00 am to 9:00 pm (Eastern Time) at 800-3-AUTISM (800-328-8476) or info@autism-society.org.

The Autism Society is dedicated to improving the quality of life for all affected by autism. $50 allows the Autism Society to provide an hour of support to our affiliate network to create localized education resources, support, and advocacy to individuals and families affected by autism. If you found this article helpful, please consider supporting our efforts through a donation, every bit helps. Donate here!