According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), one in 36 children has been diagnosed with autism. That’s why every April is Autism Awareness Month, which is meant to promote the understanding and acceptance of individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).

Dr. Michelle Hartley-McAndrew, MD, FAAP, medical director at the Autism Spectrum Disorder Center at Oishei Children’s Hospital in Buffalo, says emphasizing acceptance can go a long way.

“I just think it's more beneficial for society just understanding, and then that acceptance... that 'I'm happy that you're here. I'm OK that you might not be smiling when I'm smiling at you, or you might be maybe exploring things a little bit differently than the way that I do,'” said Hartley-McAndrew.

She says that while autism looks different for everyone, it can sometimes present itself as difficulty maintaining eye contact, expressing oneself or needing structure in their day-to-day.

For people who do not interact with someone with ASD on a regular basis, these traits can be taken personally. Understanding ASD means more people can identify when someone may be on the spectrum. Accepting people with ASD means they are not expected to change who they are.

The Autism Society is celebrating 60 years and has more resources and information on ASD diagnoses and Autism Acceptance Month on its website.