Families affected by autism know how invaluable resources and support are to their everyday lives. Fortunately, Texas, specifically the Houston area, has a wealth of organizations ready and able to offer assistance to these families. This month, there are also many events taking place in the Houston area for families and kids with autism.
Houston Area Autism Awareness Month Events
2024 Autism Prom
April 7 | 2:00 pm- 5:00 pm | FREE (registration required)
Moody Gardens (Moody Hotel Ballroom) | 1 Hope Blvd Galveston, TX 77554
This is a FREE sensory-friendly social event for everyone with Autism and their siblings. All ages are invited to attend! They may wear whatever they like and are encouraged to dress up in neon! This year’s prom theme is LIGHT IT UP! The dance floor will be loaded with glow in the dark decor and we will be giving out light up accessories to the kids! Success On The Spectrum will play kid-friendly, low volume music! A free photobooth will be present for parents and kids to take pictures.
Sensory Friendly Day at Fort Bend Children’s Discovery Center
April 8 | 10:00 pm-2:00 pm | $8/person (registration required)
Children’s Discovery Center |198 Kempner St., Sugar Land, TX 77498
Children with autism spectrum disorder and their families are invited to experience the Fort Bend Children’s Discovery Center with dimmed lights, limited extra sounds, and no distracting motions during this private event. Extra signage is added to help visitors determine things not to climb on, and entrances between exhibits where it is good to stop and wait for an adult before continuing. Our Sensory Friendly Days offer wonderful relief from extra stimuli.
Sensory Friendly Day at Children’s Museum Houston
April 15 | 10:00 pm-2:00 pm | $8/person (registration required)
Children’s Museum Houston |1500 Binz St, Houston, TX 77004
Step into a world of wonder and exploration where the lights are dimmed, the sounds are minimal, and distracting motions are nowhere to be found, allowing for an immersive experience tailored to your needs. Navigate with ease as extra signage guides your path, indicating areas to avoid climbing and entrances between exhibits where it’s best to pause and await adult guidance. Join us for a magical journey where every moment is filled with excitement, discovery, and boundless possibilities!
Easter Seals Walk With Me
April 20 | 8:00 am start | Kids 10 and Under Free
Houston Zoo |6200 Hermann Park Drive Houston, TX
Walk With Me is a Family Fun Walk presented by Prosperity Bank, that benefits Easter Seals Greater Houston, which provides services for people of all ages with all types of disabilities. Following the walk, there will be an after-party at the Masihara Pavilion inside the zoo with children’s activities, music, food, drinks and more until 10:30 am. After the event, participants are welcome to stay and enjoy the zoo for the remainder of the day.
Local Autism Resources: Houston and Texas
The Autism Society of Texas: This organization provides information, referrals, and support to individuals and families affected by autism. They offer support groups, workshops, and advocacy services.
Texas Parent to Parent: Texas Parent to Parent offers support, information, and resources to families of children with disabilities, including autism. They provide one-to-one parent matching, support groups, and training opportunities.
The Houston Autism Center: This center offers diagnostic evaluations, therapy services, and support programs for individuals with autism and their families. They provide ABA therapy, speech therapy, occupational therapy, and social skills groups.
Easter Seals Greater Houston: Easter Seals provides a range of services for individuals with disabilities, including autism. They offer early intervention services, therapy services, and support for families.
Local School District Special Education Departments: Houston-area school districts have special education departments that provide services and support for students with autism. These services may include individualized education plans (IEPs), behavioral support, and specialized instruction. Early intervention programs are also available for children 0-3. Contact your local school district for more information.
Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC): The HHSC provides information and resources for individuals with disabilities and their families. They offer information on Medicaid waivers, respite care, and other support services.
Other Autism Resources for Families
Autism Speaks: Autism Speaks is one of the largest autism advocacy organizations. They provide information on autism research, resources for families, and advocacy efforts. Their website offers a wide range of resources, including toolkits, guides, and articles:
The Autism Society: The Autism Society is a grassroots organization that provides support, advocacy, and education to individuals and families affected by autism. They offer resources such as local chapters, support groups, and information on topics related to autism.
National Autism Association (NAA): The National Autism Association provides support and advocacy for individuals with autism and their families. They offer resources on safety, wandering prevention, education, and more.
Autism Research Institute (ARI): ARI focuses on research-based approaches to understanding and treating autism. They provide information on biomedical treatments, dietary interventions, and educational resources for families and professionals.
These are just a few resources available to families with autistic children in Houston, Texas. It’s also a good idea to network with other families, educators, and healthcare professionals to gather additional recommendations and support.
