Autism Speaks Dallas/Ft. Worth

10/21/2026

We're proud to highlight Spark Learning, a sponsor of the 2026 DFW Empower Walk & 5K and a dedicated provider serving local families through individualized and group ABA therapy. Their services include in-home, school-based, and community-based support designed to meet each child's unique needs.

Thank you, Spark Learning, for partnering with Autism Speaks and helping build a more inclusive community for autistic individuals and their families!

10/13/2026

Check out this study that is being led by one of our official Empower Walk and 5K providers, TCU FACES Lab!

New paid research study at TCU: Family Engagement in Emotional Learning (FEEL) Study

The purpose of the FEEL study is to learn about the role of mothers and fathers in children's emotional experiences and to understand how preschool-aged children manage their emotions.
The study requires 2 visits to TCU campus. We are recruiting 3-5 year old children with a diagnosis of autism and their biological parents to participate in this study.

Contact us at [email protected] or by completing this quick online form!

https://tcu.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_b1TcgeJrn8cI1jE

09/15/2026

Your voice matters. Your vote matters. 🗳️

On National Voter Registration Day, take a moment to register or verify your voter registration and make your voice heard.

Learn how Autism Votes empowers autistic individuals, families, and advocates to engage in the democratic process: https://www.autismspeaks.org/autism-votes

09/13/2026

Today we're celebrating Kids Take Over the Kitchen Day by shining a spotlight on the incredible chefs featured through Autism Speaks' Chefs on the Spectrum program!

This inspiring initiative highlights talented autistic chefs who are sharing their passion, creativity, and unique culinary skills with the world. From professional kitchens to home cooking, these chefs are breaking barriers and proving that autism is no obstacle to success.

Meet the chefs and learn their stories: https://chefsonthespectrum.autismspeaks.org/chefs/

09/11/2026

💙 Happy Grandparents Day! 💙

Today, we celebrate the grandparents who provide endless love, support, encouragement, and understanding to their families.

For many families impacted by autism, grandparents are advocates, caregivers, cheerleaders, and trusted sources of strength through every milestone and challenge. Your love helps create a world where autistic individuals can thrive.

Thank you for all you do and for the difference you make every day.

09/11/2026

Today, we pause to remember and honor the lives lost on September 11, 2001.

On Patriot Day, we reflect on the courage of the first responders, service members, and everyday heroes who stepped forward in the face of tragedy. We also remember the families and communities forever changed by the events of that day.

May we continue to honor their memory through kindness, service, and unity.

❤️🤍💙

09/04/2026

Creating inclusive spaces matters. 💙

Thank you to our friends and Dallas/Fort Worth Empower Walk & 5K sponsor, Chuck E. Cheese, for partnering with Autism Speaks to launch Sensory Sensitive Sundays at Adventure World in Arlington. We love seeing opportunities that help more families feel welcome, comfortable, and supported.

Check out the details below!

06/15/2026

Hi friends if you're looking for a fun event this weekend please check out one of our wonderful Empower Walk & 5K Run sponsors ACES ABA at their newest grand opening in McKinney!!

05/18/2026

Summer is officially here, DFW! 🍉☀️

While we’re excited for fun in the sun, we know that losing the structure of the school year can make the transition to summer a bit challenging for our autistic children and families.

To help you navigate the seasonal shift with confidence, we’re sharing a fantastic new blog post from an Autism Response Team associate and mom. Check out her 4 practical, real-life strategies for a smoother summer:

Maintain Routine: Use visual schedules, smartphone timers, and "First/Then" concepts to provide reassurance before activities.
- Plan Support Early: Fill calendar gaps by coordinating extra therapy sessions or looking into respite care options.
- Lean on Community: Connect with local DFW autism moms for playdates at the park, tap into regional support groups, or use specialized childcare platforms.
- Embrace Imperfect Days: Give yourself grace on the tough days, focus on positive reinforcement, and don't be afraid to just "chill out" together.

Let’s make this a safe, fun, and connected season! Read the full article and get all the insights here: https://www.autismspeaks.org/blog/four-tips-smooth-transition-summer

The school year is winding down and it's time for Summer break! Click here to read four tips for a smooth transition into Summer.

05/11/2026

We’re excited to spotlight an incredible research opportunity from Texas Christian University that is helping further understanding of autism and emotional development in young children. 💙

The Families, Autism, and Child Emotion Studies (FACES) team is currently recruiting families for a paid research study focused on parenting experiences and how preschool-aged children on the autism spectrum manage emotions.

Families who participate may receive:
✨ $100 per family for each visit
✨ A prize for children at each visit
✨ Flexible scheduling including evenings and weekends

Eligible participants include:
✔️ Children ages 3–5 with an autism diagnosis
✔️ Both biological parents

This study is conducted at TCU and funded by the National Institutes of Health. All information shared is confidential.

To learn more or sign up:
📧 [email protected]
📞 (817) 257-4185
🔗 https://tcu.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_b1TcgeJrn8cI1jE

Thank you to the researchers and families working together to advance autism research and support the autism community! 💙