Autism Friendly Training

Treat others the way they should be treated. That is what being autism-friendly means – taking the time to learn about autism, accept people with autism as they are, and make sure your environment includes them. That’s what guides our Autism Friendly Training, developed with self-advocates and autism community members. This program is for those aligned with Autism Speaks in promoting autism acceptance and building community with autistic people. 

Learn how you can become Autism Friendly below. 

Whether a neighbor, barista, librarian, bus driver, clergy member, anyone can become an Autism Friendly Ally.  Here's how: 

• Complete Autism Friendly Training. Sign up here. Our free, online course takes less than 30 minutes. It can be done at your own pace and in multiple sittings.
• Demonstrate your knowledge. Take an Assessment based on what you learned.
• Earn your official badge. Access to it will be given once you successfully pass the course.
• Show your support. Share your badge on your digital profiles and social media accounts to signal you are accepting of those with autism in all you do.
• Spread the word. Encourage your friends, your HR manager, your favorite local restaurant and everyone you know to also become an ally.
• Participate in our Autism Speaks Advocacy efforts. Join us to protect the rights, services and supports of people with autism.

Become an Autism Friendly Ally now. 

Autism spans all demographics. So businesses that earn their Autism Friendly Designation signal to the public that they are welcome to all. It’s also good for business. Studies show embracing strategies to include people with autism leads to increased employee satisfaction and customer loyalty. It's easy to get started:

• Enroll your business here.
• Have your employees complete training. Our online course takes less than 30 minutes. It can be done at your own pace and in multiple sittings. Available on desktops, laptops and mobile devices (tables and phones).
• Earn your official designation. You will be awarded your designation once 80% of your customer-facing employees complete training. Find out more.
• Show your support. Display your personalized Autism Friendly Designation title at your place of business, on your website, social media accounts and digital profiles. Let your employees, customers and business partners know you are autism-friendly.
• Spread the word. Encourage your vendors, customers and community to also enroll to receive their Designation.  
• Receive ongoing support from Autism Speaks. Access best practices from autism experts. Participate in events and programs. 

Learn more about Autism Friendly Designation now.