Autism Awareness Month & Maps 💜✨ #MapsForAll

Connections & celebrations
1

Hello All ! :waving_hand:

In April, we honor the beauty of different minds and voices — Autism Awareness and Acceptance Month reminds us that understanding, kindness, and connection can make all the difference.

A photo captured by me of a wall mural in my city
A photo captured by me of a wall mural in my city1920Ă—1035 252 KB

What is Autism?

Autism is a natural difference in how some people think, feel, and experience the world. It’s not an illness or something that needs to be “fixed.” Instead, it’s a part of who someone is. A person with autism might find certain things — like loud noises, bright lights, or sudden changes — more overwhelming than others. They might also communicate, play, or learn in ways that are different from what some people are used to. But different doesn’t mean wrong. It just means unique. :light_blue_heart:

You might hear the word neurodivergent — that simply means someone whose brain works in a way that’s different from what’s considered “typical.” This includes people with autism, ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder), dyslexia (which affects reading), and other conditions that affect how someone learns, focuses, or processes information. Being neurodivergent doesn’t mean something is wrong — it just means a person experiences the world differently. And different can be beautiful. Here is a short film video by the National Autistic Society to understand Autism in simple terms.

How can anyone support people with Autism using Maps :sparkles:

For people with autism, planning ahead can make a big difference. Google Maps offers tools that can help make going out feel safer and more comfortable. For example:

  • You can check how busy a place usually is — useful for avoiding loud, crowded times.
  • Photos and reviews show what the place looks like, so there are fewer surprises.
  • Some listings share whether the space is wheelchair-friendly or has quiet areas.

These features don’t just help people with autism — they’re useful for parents, caregivers, and anyone who prefers a calmer experience. You can learn more about Autism friendly Maps features in this post. #MapsForAll

Simple Ways We Can All Help :sparkles:

  • Be patient. Some people need more time to express themselves or feel comfortable.
  • Don’t assume — if someone acts differently, it doesn’t mean they’re being rude or unfriendly.
  • Speak clearly and kindly. Loud or rushed speech can be hard to follow.
  • Respect personal space and routines — these are important for many people with autism.

At the end of the day, we all want the same things: to feel safe, understood, and included. Autism Awareness Month is a reminder to listen, learn, and show kindness. A little extra care goes a long way. :light_blue_heart:

Do you know someone on the spectrum or their carer? Do they use Maps for navigating around? Let me know in the comments below !

33 Likes
2

Tagging few of my fellow Local Guide accessibility advocates who would be interested in reading this post - @EmekaUlor @Jesi @KashifMisidia @JaneBurunina @ChinonsoOnukwugha @Tejal @TusharSuradkar @PaulPavlinovich @PennyChristie @DeniGu @Julie_A @Latika_Malhotra

7 Likes
3

Thank you @Globe_trotter_Ish for sharing about Autism Awareness Month and how we can help towards Cognitive Accessibility on Google Maps.

1 Like
4

@Globe_trotter_Ish Understanding begins with awareness, this post is a wonderful step.

1 Like
5

Agreed @MerlinThomas !

1 Like
6

Thank you for this beautiful and insightful post, @Globe_trotter_Ish. You’ve explained autism and neurodivergence in such a clear and compassionate way. The video included in your post is also very helpful in understanding autism — it makes the message even more accessible. I especially appreciated how you highlighted the role of Google Maps in supporting inclusive experiences; it’s a great reminder of how technology can foster empathy. The mural photo adds a lovely personal touch too. Grateful for this awareness and for reminding us that different is indeed beautiful.

1 Like
7

Thank you for this post with great recoommendations for others to adapt to autism, such like how we ask neurodivergent people to adapt to the neurotypical world :flexed_biceps: Autism Acceptance Month is so important because of this kinds of awareness you are giving.

It’s ao important to listen to autistic adults too: it’s an spectrum after all, so even though there some with carers, many don’t need them and even have amazing accomplishments.

I just wanted to add that many autistic people don’t like the puzzle sign for them and prefer the gold infinity symbol, as the puzzle signifies that they have missing pieces and the fact is neurodivergent people just think differently :infinity:

2 Likes
8

I am glad you liked tge post Jesi ! I didnt know about the puzzle pic.. thank you for letting me know , I didnt know :blush: The pic is of a mural in my city near an OT clinic. I will convey this message to them too. Thank you sharing your thoughts @Jesi !

2 Likes
9

Agreed @K.K.Sharma ! Thank you for reading tge post thoroughly ! Hopefully this should help spread the awareness and kindness !

1 Like
10

Nice information on Austism @Globe_trotter_Ish :+1:

1 Like
11

@Globe_trotter_Ish I am very happy to see your article about autism! I have an autistic niece and I know how difficult it is to live in everyday life, since there are not many places adapted to receive people on the autism spectrum.

Autism has several different spectrums, which can affect the patient’s receptiveness to a greater or lesser extent, and having a calm environment with people who can help with the necessary support is very important, such as: quiet rooms so that patients can regulate their emotions, adapted bathrooms so that there is space for the patient and the companion, and understanding by all the employees of the establishment about what autism is.

I hope that one day, the spaces will be more adapted to these patients and their families and companions.

2 Likes
12

Thanks for sharing @Globe_trotter_Ish.. Such an important topic to raise awareness about :heart:

2 Likes
13

नमस्कार
@Globe_trotter_Ish

Thank you for this carring post, Isha. It’s so important to spread awareness and kindness. I truly believe Connect GMaps can make a big difference in helping autistic people feel more comfortable while exploring the world..

1 Like
14

Thank you @Latika_Malhotra ! I am glad to have a platform where I meet like minded people who share the same passion and kindness as I do :blush: Hopefully whoever reads the post gets an idea about Autism and treats everyone with kindness :purple_heart:

15

Ich kenne niemanden, trotzdem finde ich den Beitrag sehr interessant dieses Wissen zu vermitteln und bekannt zu machen :+1::folded_hands: @Globe_trotter_Ish
Freundlichkeit hatte noch nie jemanden geschadet :blush:

1 Like
16

@Globe_trotter_Ish
Thanks for sharing this post as you stay in Thane in thin this school is in East .I got associated with they through Film director Amol Gupte who suggested my name to Principal of school and attend virtual meet-up to encourage the students…
I had handle in my school students they need love & affection these are God bless kids but such are so intelligent if u talk to them they will do all work efficiently. But to teach them you need lot of patience…

I will post about a boy …
Best wishes to you.

1 Like
17

Love this @Globe_trotter_Ish thank you for tagging me

1 Like
18

This is a wonderful article @Globe_trotter_Ish, thank you for sharing and tagging! Just getting around to reading this.

I loved that you included simple ways we can help. Being more inclusive and understanding really does not take much and goes a long way, and I love the tips you provided.

1 Like