- World Autism Day is April 2 every year.
- In 2027, it's on Friday, April 2.
- It was set by the United Nations in 2007.
- The best way to take part is your child's way, including not taking part at all.
When is World Autism Day 2027?
Friday, April 2, 2027. The day is always April 2. Its official name is World Autism Awareness Day, and the United Nations uses it to promote the rights and inclusion of autistic people.1
It also kicks off April, which many U.S. organizations mark as Autism Acceptance Month.2 See What is Autism Acceptance Month?
Where did World Autism Day come from?
The UN General Assembly created the day in 2007, and it was first marked on April 2, 2008.1 Each year, the UN holds events on a theme, often focused on inclusion, education or work.
Over time, many autistic people have asked that the focus move from "awareness" to acceptance and inclusion: not just knowing autism exists, but making schools, jobs and communities work for autistic people.
How can families take part?
Try
- Wear gold or a rainbow infinity symbol
- Share something your child is proud of, if they want to
- Read a book by an autistic author together
- Ask your school to share a short note about what helps your child
Skip
- Putting your child on display without asking
- Symbols many autistic people find hurtful
- Fundraisers you haven't checked out
How can schools make the day welcoming?
- Focus on strengths and different ways of learning, not on differences as problems
- Offer quiet options for assemblies or loud events
- Invite autistic speakers or share work by autistic creators
- Let autistic students choose whether to share anything
Free printable: starter packPDF · 3 pages · morning schedule, first-then board and 5-star token chart
Download Free printable: starter packWhat can we plan now?
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