Hispanic Heritage Month: Hispanic and Latinx Individuals Impacting the Autism Community

two children having a conversation on a bench demonstrating how to help children with autism make friends

September 15 – October 15 is Hispanic Heritage Month. It’s a time to celebrate the cultures and contributions of Hispanic and Latinx people.  At Opya, we want to celebrate the many contributions of Hispanics and Latinx individuals in the autism community. From writers to reporters, artists to educators, and more, there are many people in […]

Celebrating Neurodiversity in Sports: 10 Athletes on the Autism Spectrum

Determination, skill, and passion are the driving forces behind every athlete. Among these remarkable individuals are athletes on the autism spectrum, who have not only excelled in their sport of choice but also shattered stereotypes and inspired countless others. As the 2024 Summer Olympics kick off in France we want to celebrate some of the […]

Celebrating Members of the LGBTQ+ Community with Autism During Pride Month

June is Pride Month and we want to celebrate some of the remarkable individuals from the LGBTQ+ community on the autism spectrum. These individuals inspire countless others through their advocacy, creativity, and authenticity. From pioneering politicians and groundbreaking comedians to influential writers and talented performers, each of these individuals brings unique perspectives and invaluable contributions […]

Women’s History Month: Celebrating Women with Autism

March is Women’s History Month and it is essential to recognize and honor the achievements of women from all walks of life, including those on the autism spectrum.  While historically overlooked, women with autism have made significant contributions to society.  From acclaimed authors and educators to pioneering advocates and artists, these remarkable women have not […]

Black History Month: Celebrating Individuals with Autism

February is Black History Month and we are excited to celebrate amazing individuals with autism from the black community.  Here are a few! Kalin Bennett: Division 1 Basketball Player In 2019, Kalin Bennett was the first student-athlete with autism recruited by and awarded an NCAA Division 1 Basketball Scholarship by Kent State University.  After his […]

Increase in Autism Diagnoses Among Hispanic Children

Historically, language barriers, cultural differences, access to resources, and lack of awareness within the Hispanic and Latinx communities have led to the underdiagnosis of Hispanic and Latinx children. In the past many Hispanic children were often misdiagnosed or did not receive their autism diagnosis until later in life.  However, a recent study revealed, that for […]

Autism Awareness Month Activities for Schools & Businesses

Encouraging Autism Awareness Month Activities for Schools & Businesses.

April is Autism Awareness Month. During the month of April, autism advocates around the world work to increase understanding, awareness, and acceptance of people with autism through stories, education, and other activities. As part of an effort to build a more inclusive world for individuals on the autism spectrum, national organizations encourage participants to come […]

Autism: Understanding the difference between girls and boys.

Studies conducted on children with autism have also shown that boys and girls differ in clinical and neurobiological characteristics

Autism: Understanding the difference between girls and boys.                                          (courtesy of thefca.co.uk)  Research generally shows that autism is more prevalent in boys than girls, with the most up-to-date studies estimating a 3:1 ratio. However, recent studies […]