Starfish Hug
A video about cheering up friends, featuring Julia, Sam and Abby from Sesame Street.
Here’s an autism-friendly viewing activity intended to explore how we can learn to support each other. Watch the video together. In it, Abby’s feeling sad, so Julia and Sam think of a special way to cheer her up…Julia’s special “starfish hug”! Ask, “What’s different about this hug? How about Abby’s fairy hug?” Then, think of your own special hug for your family or friends to share.
Where Should We Go?
Even taking a walk around the neighborhood can offer opportunities for autistic children to make choices—and have fun! Use this autism-friendly coloring activity to help kids develop their decision-making.
Teaching Self-Determination Skills
Try these playful, autism-friendly activities to help your child develop important self-determination skills.
Setting and Achieving Goals
With support from a caring grown-up, autistic children can set goals, make a plan, and accomplish big things! Read on for expert parenting advice for parents of autistic kids.
Julia and Rose – Best Friends Fur-Ever
When Sesame Street's Julia has an idea, she sees it through… with a little help from her family. This social storybook for autistic children models what’s possible!
Super Helper
Finding ways to help their family can be a great way for autistic children to build skills and pursue goals. Download and share this autism-friendly coloring activity.
Time for a Treat
Sometimes autistic children—and all children—need a little help from others to reach their goals. Download this printable for an autism-friendly coloring activity to help explore focus and persistence.
Forging Furry Friendships: How Human-Animal Interventions Can Support Autistic Children’s Well-Being
In this webinar, you’ll learn about the science of human-animal bonds and specifically how animal interventions can support autistic children’s well-being.
