AUTISM NEWSLETTER JULY 2025

Autism 'types' More evidence that autistic individuals get their own distinct version, style or ‘brand’ of autism, suggesting autism isn’t one continuous spectrum. Looks increasingly like Donna Williams’ ideas about a ‘fruit salad’ of autistic differences and abilities in each person were right on the money. More

Dad’s for autism Black fathers of autistic children are looking to be more visible in the national autism conversation through podcasts, non-profits and summits that specifically address their experience. More

Sensory exploration Many aspects of autism actually flow from differences in early sensory development, but studying it is difficult. More

Myth busting Another major study has confirmed that routine childhood vaccines do not cause autism. The theory emerged three decades ago and caught fire after a study was published – and later retracted – in a major medical journal in 1998. While the theory has since been discredited in many studies from around the world, the myth still persists. Why? More

Art of autism Alex Walton is an autistic cartoonist. His early doodles evolved from traffic light-like creatures into doodle characters in large collages. One of his more recent collage doodles is called Feelings, a collage of emotive faces. More recent work includes Mr. Autism and Spikey Mikey, both characters that seem to connect with people of all ages. More

Sleep disturbance “David never slept. Even as a newborn he was unusually alert. Where other babies ate and slept, he ate and was awake, and never settled easily. In the early days you’re in good company. But, as time went on, I began to feel increasingly isolated.” More

School leadership Stephanie Smith is head of an autism special school. Here she reveals what a typical week looks like in their role. More

Training and the law A new code of practice to support the Oliver McGowan Mandatory Training on Learning Disability and Autism has been published by the government. Aimed at employers, the guidelines set out the standards of training that health and social care staff should receive to comply with the law. More
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Makaton Learn a new word every week and be inspired to get signing. With the British Open in full swing (ouch!) this week’s word is ‘golf’. More​