Support

Get help with a new diagnosis and support related to education, work, housing, insurance and medical issues.

CALL US

Advocacy

Find an advocate for an individual with Autism, as well as help in becoming a stronger advocate for you or your loved one.

CALL US

Education

Discover resources, accredited conferences, seminars, support groups, and workplace training.

LEARN

Our mission

Our mission is to be a lifeline and hub for families and adults, providing support, information, and advocacy.

Founded in 1996, the Autism Connection of Pennsylvania serves thousands of families, professionals, and adults seeking help for autism questions and concerns. Autism Connection staff understand your perspective. They provide email and telephone support, autism news, sensory-friendly activities, and training for parents, professionals, educators, and first responders, and the organization sponsors support groups across Pennsylvania.

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Latest Blog Posts

The autism spectrum is broad, varying features that are sometimes difficult to recognize on the surface. Some adults may have lived their lives without a full awareness that some of the barriers and struggles they have faced are a result of undiagnosed autism. Reports include those who have been stunned by the direct question, “When were you diagnosed with autism?” Other reports specify experiencing difficulty understanding social interactions, difficulty with tolerating textures, changes in routines, and being genuinely dumbfounded by read more

Interoception refers to the sense and perception of internal bodily sensations, an inner compass that helps us recognize internal sensory experiences. It is the ability to detect and interpret signals from within our own bodies, allowing us to be aware of various physiological processes such as heart rate, breathing, temperature, hunger, thirst, bathroom urges, and the feeling of pain or discomfort. Interpreting these signals allows us to gain awareness of physical and emotional states, aiding in self-regulation and decision-making. Through read more

Looking for a way to positively impact an autistic teen or adult in your orbit? Consider hiring them to cut your grass. I’ve done this twice and here is what I have learned so far: Grass cutting is a social skill. Grass cutting requires knowing what the boss wants the lawn to look like. My first employee was a man with intense support needs who is non-speaking and always thinking! He loved cutting with a rotary mower – the old read more