**Note: This page is for educational inspiration and is not officially affiliated with World Autism Acceptance Month. For official information and themes related to the UN's observance of World Autism Awareness Day, you can visit their website: www.un.org/en/observances/autism-day. For more information on the broader Autism Acceptance Month movement, you may find resources from organisations such as the National Autistic Society (UK): www.autism.org.uk

World Autism Acceptance Month: 1st - 30th April 2027

World Autism Awareness Day: Friday 2nd April 2027

Understanding World Autism Acceptance Month & World Autism Awareness Day in EYFS & KS1

Let's celebrate how wonderfully diverse we all are and learn about Autism Acceptance! ❤️ World Autism Acceptance Month is celebrated every year in April, with a special focus on World Autism Awareness Day on April 2nd. World Autism Awareness Day was first started by the United Nations (UN) in 2007. Over time, the name evolved from "Awareness" to "Acceptance" – a change championed by autistic people themselves and groups who wanted us all to think about understanding, valuing, and respecting autistic people for exactly who they are, instead of just knowing about autism as a condition. Different autism groups around the world help promote acceptance, understanding, and support for autistic people all through April. This month encourages us to celebrate what makes each person unique and to build a world where everyone feels welcome and understood.

For early years settings, nurseries, preschools, childminders, and Year 1 and Year 2 classrooms, this month provides a profoundly important and empathetic theme for exploring diversity, kindness and friendship, emotions and feelings, communication, understanding individual needs, and personal, social & emotional development (PSED). It's about introducing children to the idea that everyone's brain works a little differently, and that's something to celebrate. It teaches us how to be truly inclusive friends and how to support everyone in our community. This month offers fantastic planning ideas and inspiration for engaging activities that truly resonate with young minds, making learning about acceptance and neurodiversity both essential and uplifting!

Why Is Learning About Autism Acceptance Important for Young Children?

Integrating World Autism Acceptance Month and lessons about autism and neurodiversity into your practice with young children (aged 0-7) is important for fostering an inclusive environment, promoting empathy, and supporting the development of strong social-emotional skills.

Promotes Empathy & Understanding: Teaches children to appreciate individual differences and to be kind and supportive to everyone, including autistic peers.
Encourages Inclusivity: Helps create a classroom or setting where all children feel seen, valued, and belong, regardless of how their brains work.
Builds Communication Skills: Introduces various communication methods (like visual aids) that benefit all children, especially those who process information differently.
Reduces Stigma: By talking about autism openly and positively, children learn to approach differences with curiosity and acceptance rather than fear or judgment.
Supports Social-Emotional Development: Helps children recognise and respond to diverse emotions and social cues, fostering stronger friendships.
Prepares for Diverse World: Equips children with the mindset and skills to thrive in a diverse society where neurodiversity is celebrated.

Engaging Autism Acceptance Activities for World Autism Acceptance Month (0-7 Year Olds)

Let's open our hearts and minds for World Autism Acceptance Month with these planning ideas and activities perfect for EYFS and KS1 children. The focus is on understanding, accepting, and celebrating everyone's unique ways of thinking and being! Many of these early years and year 1 activities can be supported by our dedicated 'Autism' and 'Picture Communication' resources, as well as broader 'Kindness and Friendship' and 'Emotions and Feelings' themed materials.

Here's some inspiration for celebrating World Autism Acceptance Month in your setting: (Please use your own discretion and knowledge of your children to ensure appropriateness of each activity and safety concerning any materials given and activity undertaken.)

Promoting Understanding & Acceptance:
- Introduce the idea that everyone is different and special, and that some people's brains work in a unique way called autism.
- Use 'SEND - Autism Traits - Posters' to simply explain some common characteristics in a positive way.
- Discuss what fairness means and how to make things fair for everyone, using 'Fairness - Which Is Fairer? - Posters', 'Fairness - Draw A Fairer Version - Sheets', and 'Fairness - Making It Fairer - Drawing/Writing'.
Communication and Visual Supports:
- Introduce and use picture communication as a tool that can help everyone, especially those who communicate differently.
- Utilise resources like 'Picture Communication Cards - Key Phrases'.
- Show how visual timetables can help everyone understand their day with 'Picture Communication Cards - Classroom/Setting Visual Timetable', and 'Picture Communication - What's Happening? Visual Support Boards - First/Then Now/Next'.
- Use 'Picture Communication - 'Our Day Today' Banner' to display the daily routine.
Sensory Awareness & Support:
- Talk about our five senses and how some people might experience sounds, lights, or textures differently. Use 'SEND - Sensory Systems Poster'.
- Introduce 'SEND - Sensory Preference Cards' to help children express what sensory input they like or dislike.
- Discuss how different activities make us feel using 'Send - How Does The Activity Make You Feel?'.
- In a sensitive way, if appropriate for your children, you can use 'SEND - Meltdowns And Shutdowns - Posters' to help adults understand responses to sensory overload.
Emotions and Feelings:
- Explore different emotions and how we show them. Use 'Picture Communication - 'I Feel' Visual Support Board' to help children communicate their feelings. This connects to our 'Emotions and Feelings' theme.
Kindness and Friendship:
- Focus on how to be a kind and inclusive friend to everyone. Read stories about acceptance and celebrating differences. This links to our 'Kindness and Friendship' theme.
- Discuss the role of 'People Who Help Us' (like teachers, family, and support staff) in supporting everyone.
Development and Learning:
- Review guidance on supporting children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) using 'EYFS Framework - Send Code Of Practice 0 To 25 Years (Free)' and 'EYFS Framework - Early Years: Guide To The 0 To 25 Send Code Of Practice (Free)'.
- Use 'Planning - Child Interests Planning - Prime & Specific' to ensure activities cater to diverse interests.
Explore More:
- Visit our ‘Autism’ hub page for additional information and resources. Additional ‘Neurodiversity’ hub pages are coming soon! You may also like to explore additional pages covering relevant and/or connected themes such as ‘All About Me’, ‘Families’, ‘Mental Health’, ‘Picture Communication’, ‘Timetables and Routines’, and ‘Transitions’.

These activities offer great inspiration for making World Autism Acceptance Month a meaningful and impactful experience in your early years and Key Stage One setting, fostering empathy, inclusivity, understanding of diverse ways of being, and a supportive environment for all children.

To explore ideas surrounding additional early years events, please visit our 'Special Dates Calendar' page.

Printable resources to support teaching & learning surrounding: ‘World Autism Acceptance Month’ & ‘World Autism Awareness Day’

Get Organised Sample Resources

PICTURE COMMUNICATION - 'Our Day Today' Banner (Free Sample)

This banner has been made to use in conjunction with our A6 picture communication/visual timetable cards. We have a ‘Visual Timetable Cards’ pack for general group use and an ‘Individual Visual Timetable Cards’ pack which includes more personal activities for individual children.

This template could be used for an individual or on the wall as a whole class timetable display. Three sections to the banner are included in the pack. Print the middle section as many times as you need to create the right length timetable planner for your setting.

Original artwork drawn by Sara Murphy and final digital resources created by Stuart Murphy. COPYRIGHT ON ALL OF THE RESOURCES HOUSED ON THIS WEBSITE IS HELD BY ‘LITTLE OWLS RESOURCES’. OUR RESOURCES (INCLUDING THE IMAGES WITHIN THEM), CANNOT BE SHARED OR SOLD COMMERCIALLY.

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PICTURE COMMUNICATION - What's Happening? Visual Support Boards - First/Then Now/Next (Free Sample)

These visual support boards are to show the children the ‘Now and Next’ (or ‘First and Then’) for the activities of their day. The posters are designed to be used with our A6 picture communication/visual timetable cards. We have a ‘Visual Timetable Cards’ pack for general group use and an ‘Individual Visual Timetable Cards’ pack which includes more personal activities for individual children.

Original artwork drawn by Sara Murphy and final digital resources created by Stuart Murphy. COPYRIGHT ON ALL OF THE RESOURCES HOUSED ON THIS WEBSITE IS HELD BY ‘LITTLE OWLS RESOURCES’. OUR RESOURCES (INCLUDING THE IMAGES WITHIN THEM), CANNOT BE SHARED OR SOLD COMMERCIALLY.

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SEND - Sensory Preference Cards (Free Sample)

Children with Special Educational Needs and Disability can often experience the world in a different way to most. Children with sensory processing difficulties may over- or under-respond to sensory information their bodies receive. It can also sometimes be difficult for these children to express their feelings concerning this.

This resource is intended to help children and their parents/carers/teachers identify, assess and monitor children’s feelings about and responses to sound, smell, taste, temperature, light and touch.

We hope it helps!

Original artwork drawn by Sara Murphy and final digital resources created by Stuart Murphy. COPYRIGHT ON ALL OF THE RESOURCES HOUSED ON THIS WEBSITE IS HELD BY ‘LITTLE OWLS RESOURCES’. OUR RESOURCES (INCLUDING THE IMAGES WITHIN THEM), CANNOT BE SHARED OR SOLD COMMERCIALLY.

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PLANNING - Child Interests Planning - Prime & Specific (Free Sample)

These sheets can be used to note down possible ideas for learning and enjoyment related to a topic or interest.

Sometimes, when it is hard to grab and hold the attention of a child, it can be useful to use their own interests, however specific, as a starting point; a way in!

For example if a child/group of children show an interest in ‘Mobile Phones’, these sheets are for jotting down ideas that could use this interest as a starting point for learning through all the seven areas. (Separate pack available for just Prime areas.)

Original artwork drawn by Sara Murphy and final digital resources created by Stuart Murphy. COPYRIGHT ON ALL OF THE RESOURCES HOUSED ON THIS WEBSITE IS HELD BY ‘LITTLE OWLS RESOURCES’. OUR RESOURCES (INCLUDING THE IMAGES WITHIN THEM), CANNOT BE SHARED OR SOLD COMMERCIALLY.

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Scroll through to browse some of our free 'Health' resources

‘Neurodiversity’ and ‘Autism’ educational resources for EYFS and KS1:

SEND

PICTURE COMMUNICATION CARDS - KEY PHRASES

These cards can be used to aid non-verbal communication. They are intended for use by an adult or a child as a way of asking a question (“Are you hungry?”) or making a statement (“I am hungry.”).

The cards can be used individually or linked with a split pin through the grey circle.

Key phrase prompts included in the pack:

Toilet, Hungry, Thirsty, Hurt, Unwell, Tired, Cuddle, Play Outdoors, Play Indoors, Yes, No

Keywords: autism, autistic, non-verbal, non verbal, picture/visual communication aids

Original artwork drawn by Sara Murphy and final digital resources created by Stuart Murphy. COPYRIGHT ON ALL OF THE RESOURCES HOUSED ON THIS WEBSITE IS HELD BY ‘LITTLE OWLS RESOURCES’. OUR RESOURCES (INCLUDING THE IMAGES WITHIN OUR RESOURCES), CANNOT BE SHARED OR SOLD COMMERCIALLY.

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PICTURE COMMUNICATION FANS - KEY PHRASES

Once assembled these fans can be used to aid non-verbal communication. They are intended for use by an adult or a child as a way of asking a question (“Are you hungry?”) or making a statement (“I am hungry.”).

To create fan, cut and laminate each picture. Then join through the highlighted dot using a split pin or a treasury tag.

Key phrase prompts included in the pack:

Toilet, Hungry, Thirsty, Hurt, Unwell, Tired, Cuddle, Play Outdoors, Play Indoors, Yes, No

Keywords: autism, autistic, non-verbal, non verbal, picture/visual communication aids

Original artwork drawn by Sara Murphy and final digital resources created by Stuart Murphy. COPYRIGHT ON ALL OF THE RESOURCES HOUSED ON THIS WEBSITE IS HELD BY ‘LITTLE OWLS RESOURCES’. OUR RESOURCES (INCLUDING THE IMAGES WITHIN OUR RESOURCES), CANNOT BE SHARED OR SOLD COMMERCIALLY.

DOWNLOAD EDITABLE (DOCX)

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DOWNLOAD NON-EDITABLE (Zipped JPEGs)

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PICTURE COMMUNICATION MAT - KEY PHRASES

This mat can be used to aid non-verbal communication. It is intended for use by an adult or a child as a way of asking a question (“Are you hungry?”) or making a statement (“I am hungry.”).

Key phrase prompts included in the pack:

Toilet, Hungry, Thirsty, Hurt, Unwell, Tired, Cuddle, Play Outdoors, Play Indoors, Yes, No

Keywords: autism, autistic, non-verbal, non verbal, picture/visual communication aids

Original artwork drawn by Sara Murphy and final digital resources created by Stuart Murphy. COPYRIGHT ON ALL OF THE RESOURCES HOUSED ON THIS WEBSITE IS HELD BY ‘LITTLE OWLS RESOURCES’. OUR RESOURCES (INCLUDING THE IMAGES WITHIN OUR RESOURCES), CANNOT BE SHARED OR SOLD COMMERCIALLY.

DOWNLOAD EDITABLE (DOCX)

DOWNLOAD NON-EDITABLE (PDF)

DOWNLOAD NON-EDITABLE (Zipped JPEGs)

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PICTURE COMMUNICATION CARDS - KEY PHRASES - ADULT PROMPTS (A5)

These cards can be used to aid non-verbal communication. They are intended for use by an adult as a way of asking a question (“Have you washed your hands?”) or making a statement (“Wash your hands please.”).

N.B. When introducing this mat to the children it may be useful to reinforce the link in their minds by showing real life actions to correspond with the pictures. For example ‘Sit down’ – demonstrate with someone sitting down.

Key phrase prompts included in the pack:

Toilet, Listen, Look, Sit down, Line up, Stop, Yes, No, Wash hands, Wait, Tidy up, Be kind

Keywords: autism, autistic, non-verbal, non verbal, picture/visual communication aids

Original artwork drawn by Sara Murphy and final digital resources created by Stuart Murphy. COPYRIGHT ON ALL OF THE RESOURCES HOUSED ON THIS WEBSITE IS HELD BY ‘LITTLE OWLS RESOURCES’. OUR RESOURCES (INCLUDING THE IMAGES WITHIN OUR RESOURCES), CANNOT BE SHARED OR SOLD COMMERCIALLY.

DOWNLOAD EDITABLE (DOCX)

DOWNLOAD NON-EDITABLE (PDF)

DOWNLOAD NON-EDITABLE (Zipped JPEGs)

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PICTURE COMMUNICATION FAN - KEY PHRASES - ADULT PROMPTS

Once assembled these fans can be used to aid non-verbal communication. They are intended for use by an adult as a way of asking a question (“Have you washed your hands?”) or making a statement (“Wash your hands please.”).

N.B. When introducing this mat to the children it may be useful to reinforce the link in their minds by showing real life actions to correspond with the pictures. For example ‘Sit down’ – demonstrate with someone sitting down.

Key phrase prompts included in the pack:

Toilet, Listen, Look, Sit down, Line up, Stop, Yes, No, Wash hands, Wait, Tidy up, Be kind

Keywords: autism, autistic, non-verbal, non verbal, picture/visual communication aids

Original artwork drawn by Sara Murphy and final digital resources created by Stuart Murphy. COPYRIGHT ON ALL OF THE RESOURCES HOUSED ON THIS WEBSITE IS HELD BY ‘LITTLE OWLS RESOURCES’. OUR RESOURCES (INCLUDING THE IMAGES WITHIN OUR RESOURCES), CANNOT BE SHARED OR SOLD COMMERCIALLY.

DOWNLOAD EDITABLE (DOCX)

DOWNLOAD NON-EDITABLE (PDF)

DOWNLOAD NON-EDITABLE (Zipped JPEGs)

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PICTURE COMMUNICATION MAT - KEY PHRASES - ADULT PROMPTS

This mat can be used to aid non-verbal communication. It is intended for use by an adult as a way of asking a question (“Have you washed your hands?”) or making a statement (“Wash your hands please.”).

N.B. When introducing this mat to the children it may be useful to reinforce the link in their minds by showing real life actions to correspond with the pictures. For example ‘Sit down’ – demonstrate with someone sitting down.

Key phrase prompts included in the pack:

Toilet, Listen, Look, Sit down, Line up, Stop, Yes, No, Wash hands, Wait, Tidy up, Be kind

Keywords: autism, autistic, non-verbal, non verbal, picture/visual communication aids

Original artwork drawn by Sara Murphy and final digital resources created by Stuart Murphy. COPYRIGHT ON ALL OF THE RESOURCES HOUSED ON THIS WEBSITE IS HELD BY ‘LITTLE OWLS RESOURCES’. OUR RESOURCES (INCLUDING THE IMAGES WITHIN OUR RESOURCES), CANNOT BE SHARED OR SOLD COMMERCIALLY.

DOWNLOAD EDITABLE (DOCX)

DOWNLOAD NON-EDITABLE (PDF)

DOWNLOAD NON-EDITABLE (Zipped JPEGs)

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PICTURE COMMUNICATION CARDS - CLASSROOM/SETTING VISUAL TIMETABLE (A6)

These cards can be used to build a setting/classroom timetable for a group of children. (100 cards included!)

The cards are designed to be cut & laminated and displayed in time order using Velcro or Blue Tac in a childcare/teaching setting such as a school classroom, nursery/preschool room or childminding setting.

We have created a wide variety of cards but have also included four blank templates at the end of the pack for you to create your own.

We hope these cards are helpful!

Keywords: autism, autistic, non-verbal, non verbal, picture/visual communication aids

Original artwork drawn by Sara Murphy and final digital resources created by Stuart Murphy. COPYRIGHT ON ALL OF THE RESOURCES HOUSED ON THIS WEBSITE IS HELD BY ‘LITTLE OWLS RESOURCES’. OUR RESOURCES (INCLUDING THE IMAGES WITHIN OUR RESOURCES), CANNOT BE SHARED OR SOLD COMMERCIALLY.

DOWNLOAD EDITABLE (DOCX)

DOWNLOAD NON-EDITABLE (PDF)

DOWNLOAD NON-EDITABLE (Zipped JPEGs)

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PICTURE COMMUNICATION CARDS - INDIVIDUAL VISUAL TIMETABLE (A6)

These cards can be used to build an individual timetable for a non-verbal child or one that may benefit from extra structure, advanced warning, or reassurance. (56 cards included!)

Encouraging the child to be a part of the timetable creation can be beneficial.

The cards are designed to be cut & laminated and then used as individual prompts or displayed in time order using Velcro or Blue Tac.

We have created a wide variety of cards but have also included four blank templates at the end of the pack for you to create your own.

We hope these cards are helpful!

Keywords: autism, autistic, non-verbal, non verbal, picture/visual communication aids

Original artwork drawn by Sara Murphy and final digital resources created by Stuart Murphy. COPYRIGHT ON ALL OF THE RESOURCES HOUSED ON THIS WEBSITE IS HELD BY ‘LITTLE OWLS RESOURCES’. OUR RESOURCES (INCLUDING THE IMAGES WITHIN OUR RESOURCES), CANNOT BE SHARED OR SOLD COMMERCIALLY.

DOWNLOAD EDITABLE (DOCX)

DOWNLOAD NON-EDITABLE (PDF)

DOWNLOAD NON-EDITABLE (Zipped JPEGs)

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PICTURE COMMUNICATION CARDS - INDIVIDUAL VISUAL TIMETABLE (A7)

These cards can be used to build an individual timetable for a non-verbal child or one that may benefit from extra structure, advanced warning, or reassurance. (56 cards included!)

Encouraging the child to be a part of the timetable creation can be beneficial.

The cards are designed to be cut & laminated and then used as individual prompts or displayed in time order using Velcro or Blue Tac.

We have created a wide variety of cards but have also included four blank templates at the end of the pack for you to create your own.

We hope these cards are helpful!

Keywords: autism, autistic, non-verbal, non verbal, picture/visual communication aids

Original artwork drawn by Sara Murphy and final digital resources created by Stuart Murphy. COPYRIGHT ON ALL OF THE RESOURCES HOUSED ON THIS WEBSITE IS HELD BY ‘LITTLE OWLS RESOURCES’. OUR RESOURCES (INCLUDING THE IMAGES WITHIN OUR RESOURCES), CANNOT BE SHARED OR SOLD COMMERCIALLY.

DOWNLOAD EDITABLE (DOCX)

DOWNLOAD NON-EDITABLE (PDF)

DOWNLOAD NON-EDITABLE (Zipped JPEGs)

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PICTURE COMMUNICATION - What's Happening? Visual Support Boards - First/Then Now/Next

These visual support boards are to show the children the ‘Now and Next’ (or ‘First and Then’) for the activities of their day. The posters are designed to be used with our A6 picture communication/visual timetable cards. We have a ‘Visual Timetable Cards’ pack for general group use and an ‘Individual Visual Timetable Cards’ pack which includes more personal activities for individual children.

Keywords: autism, autistic, non-verbal, non verbal, picture/visual communication aids

Original artwork drawn by Sara Murphy and final digital resources created by Stuart Murphy. COPYRIGHT ON ALL OF THE RESOURCES HOUSED ON THIS WEBSITE IS HELD BY ‘LITTLE OWLS RESOURCES’. OUR RESOURCES (INCLUDING THE IMAGES WITHIN OUR RESOURCES), CANNOT BE SHARED OR SOLD COMMERCIALLY.

DOWNLOAD EDITABLE (DOCX)

DOWNLOAD NON-EDITABLE (PDF)

DOWNLOAD NON-EDITABLE (Zipped JPEGs)

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PICTURE COMMUNICATION - 'Our Day Today' Banner

This banner has been made to use in conjunction with our A6 picture communication/visual timetable cards. We have a ‘Visual Timetable Cards’ pack for general group use and an ‘Individual Visual Timetable Cards’ pack which includes more personal activities for individual children.

This template could be used for an individual or on the wall as a whole class timetable display. Three sections to the banner are included in the pack. Print the middle section as many times as you need to create the right length timetable planner for your setting.

Keywords: autism, autistic, non-verbal, non verbal, picture/visual communication aids

Original artwork drawn by Sara Murphy and final digital resources created by Stuart Murphy. COPYRIGHT ON ALL OF THE RESOURCES HOUSED ON THIS WEBSITE IS HELD BY ‘LITTLE OWLS RESOURCES’. OUR RESOURCES (INCLUDING THE IMAGES WITHIN OUR RESOURCES), CANNOT BE SHARED OR SOLD COMMERCIALLY.

DOWNLOAD EDITABLE (DOCX)

DOWNLOAD NON-EDITABLE (PDF)

DOWNLOAD NON-EDITABLE (Zipped JPEGs)

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PICTURE COMMUNICATION - 'I feel' Visual Support Board

This visual support board is to aid children in thinking about and conveying how they are feeling. The board is designed to be used with our A5 emoji cards pack.

Keywords: autism, autistic, non-verbal, non verbal, picture/visual communication aids, emotions, emotion/emotional regulation/dysregulation/self-regulation

Original artwork drawn by Sara Murphy and final digital resources created by Stuart Murphy. COPYRIGHT ON ALL OF THE RESOURCES HOUSED ON THIS WEBSITE IS HELD BY ‘LITTLE OWLS RESOURCES’. OUR RESOURCES (INCLUDING THE IMAGES WITHIN OUR RESOURCES), CANNOT BE SHARED OR SOLD COMMERCIALLY.

DOWNLOAD EDITABLE (DOCX)

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SEND - How does the activity make you feel?

Children with Special Educational Needs and Disability can often experience the world in a different way to most. It can also sometimes be difficult for these children to express their feelings concerning this.

This resource is intended to help children and their parents/carers/teachers identify sources of anxiety and distress and also enjoyment. Strategies can then be put in place surrounding these findings.

(Please note that the size of the docx file means that it has been split into 2 parts. You will need to download both.)

Keywords: autism, autistic, non-verbal, non verbal, picture/visual communication aids, feeling, feelings, emotions, emotion/emotional regulation/dysregulation/self-regulation, sensory processing, over-responsive, under-responsive

Original artwork drawn by Sara Murphy and final digital resources created by Stuart Murphy. COPYRIGHT ON ALL OF THE RESOURCES HOUSED ON THIS WEBSITE IS HELD BY ‘LITTLE OWLS RESOURCES’. OUR RESOURCES (INCLUDING THE IMAGES WITHIN OUR RESOURCES), CANNOT BE SHARED OR SOLD COMMERCIALLY.

DOWNLOAD EDITABLE - PART 1 (DOCX)

DOWNLOAD EDITABLE - PART 2 (DOCX)

DOWNLOAD NON-EDITABLE (PDF)

DOWNLOAD NON-EDITABLE (Zipped JPEGs)

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SEND - Sensory Systems Poster

Children with Special Educational Needs and Disability can often experience the world in a different way to most. Children with sensory processing difficulties may over- or under-respond to sensory information their bodies receive. It can also sometimes be difficult for these children to express their feelings concerning this.

It is therefore important for parents/carers/teachers to be aware of the different systems involved with sensory difficulties. To that end we have created a poster which highlights the sensory systems:

Smell/Taste
Interoception
Tactile
Vision
Proprioception
Auditory
Vestibular

We hope it helps!

Keywords: autism, autistic, non-verbal, non verbal, feeling, feelings, sensory processing, over-responsive, under-responsive

Original artwork drawn by Sara Murphy and final digital resources created by Stuart Murphy. COPYRIGHT ON ALL OF THE RESOURCES HOUSED ON THIS WEBSITE IS HELD BY ‘LITTLE OWLS RESOURCES’. OUR RESOURCES (INCLUDING THE IMAGES WITHIN OUR RESOURCES), CANNOT BE SHARED OR SOLD COMMERCIALLY.

DOWNLOAD EDITABLE (DOCX)

DOWNLOAD NON-EDITABLE (PDF)

DOWNLOAD NON-EDITABLE (Zipped JPEGs)

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SEND - Sensory Preference Cards

Children with Special Educational Needs and Disability can often experience the world in a different way to most. Children with sensory processing difficulties may over- or under-respond to sensory information their bodies receive. It can also sometimes be difficult for these children to express their feelings concerning this.

This resource is intended to help children and their parents/carers/teachers identify, assess and monitor children’s feelings about and responses to sound, smell, taste, temperature, light and touch.

We hope it helps!

Keywords: autism, autistic, non-verbal, non verbal, picture/visual communication aids, feeling, feelings, emotions, emotion/emotional regulation/dysregulation/self-regulation, sensory processing, over-responsive, under-responsive

Original artwork drawn by Sara Murphy and final digital resources created by Stuart Murphy. COPYRIGHT ON ALL OF THE RESOURCES HOUSED ON THIS WEBSITE IS HELD BY ‘LITTLE OWLS RESOURCES’. OUR RESOURCES (INCLUDING THE IMAGES WITHIN OUR RESOURCES), CANNOT BE SHARED OR SOLD COMMERCIALLY.

DOWNLOAD EDITABLE (DOCX)

DOWNLOAD NON-EDITABLE (PDF)

DOWNLOAD NON-EDITABLE (Zipped JPEGs)

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SEND - Meltdowns and Shutdowns - Posters

Children with Special Educational Needs and Disability can often experience the world in a different way to most. This may mean that their body reacts in a different way to their surroundings. Sometimes this can result in an individual becoming completely overwhelmed, leading to a meltdown or shutdown.

These posters highlight some of the key characteristics of meltdowns or shutdowns and how to respond.

We hope they help!

Keywords: autism, autistic, non-verbal, non verbal, feeling, feelings, emotions, emotion/emotional regulation/dysregulation/self-regulation, sensory processing, over-responsive, under-responsive

Original artwork drawn by Sara Murphy and final digital resources created by Stuart Murphy. COPYRIGHT ON ALL OF THE RESOURCES HOUSED ON THIS WEBSITE IS HELD BY ‘LITTLE OWLS RESOURCES’. OUR RESOURCES (INCLUDING THE IMAGES WITHIN OUR RESOURCES), CANNOT BE SHARED OR SOLD COMMERCIALLY.

DOWNLOAD EDITABLE (DOCX)

DOWNLOAD NON-EDITABLE (PDF)

DOWNLOAD NON-EDITABLE (Zipped JPEGs)

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SEND - Autism Traits - Posters

Posters outlining the key traits of autism (ASD). One is text only and the other uses pictures to illustrate.

Includes key highlighted traits:

Social Communication and Interaction Challenges
Repetitive and Restrictive Behaviour
Over/Under Sensitivity to Light, Sound Taste or Touch (and more)
Highly Focused Interests or Hobbies
Extreme Anxiety
Meltdowns and Shutdowns

Keywords: autism, autistic, non-verbal, non verbal, picture/visual communication aids, feeling, feelings, emotions, emotion/emotional regulation/dysregulation/self-regulation, sensory processing, over-responsive, under-responsive

Original artwork drawn by Sara Murphy and final digital resources created by Stuart Murphy. COPYRIGHT ON ALL OF THE RESOURCES HOUSED ON THIS WEBSITE IS HELD BY ‘LITTLE OWLS RESOURCES’. OUR RESOURCES (INCLUDING THE IMAGES WITHIN OUR RESOURCES), CANNOT BE SHARED OR SOLD COMMERCIALLY.

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‘Fairness’ educational resources for EYFS and KS1:

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FAIRNESS - Which is Fairer? - Posters

These posters are intended to be discussion starters regarding fairness.

Each of the six posters provides an easily understandable comparison between ‘same’ and ‘fair’.

Original artwork drawn by Sara Murphy and final digital resources created by Stuart Murphy. COPYRIGHT ON ALL OF THE RESOURCES HOUSED ON THIS WEBSITE IS HELD BY ‘LITTLE OWLS RESOURCES’. OUR RESOURCES (INCLUDING THE IMAGES WITHIN THEM), CANNOT BE SHARED OR SOLD COMMERCIALLY.

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FAIRNESS - Draw a Fairer Version - Sheets

These drawing sheets are intended to get children thinking about how a situation could become fairer. For example in one of the images supplied a chimp and fish are both treated the same and expected to live on land. The child(ren) could draw the fish being given water to live in to make the situation fairer.

Original artwork drawn by Sara Murphy and final digital resources created by Stuart Murphy. COPYRIGHT ON ALL OF THE RESOURCES HOUSED ON THIS WEBSITE IS HELD BY ‘LITTLE OWLS RESOURCES’. OUR RESOURCES (INCLUDING THE IMAGES WITHIN THEM), CANNOT BE SHARED OR SOLD COMMERCIALLY.

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FAIRNESS - Making it Fairer - Drawing/Writing

Included within this pack are various differentiated mark making/drawing/writing sheets.

The sheets can be used after a discussion about fairness. For example you may like to use our ‘Which is Fairer?’ Prompt Posters. The children could make marks about their thoughts following this discussion in an open ended way.

Original artwork drawn by Sara Murphy and final digital resources created by Stuart Murphy. COPYRIGHT ON ALL OF THE RESOURCES HOUSED ON THIS WEBSITE IS HELD BY ‘LITTLE OWLS RESOURCES’. OUR RESOURCES (INCLUDING THE IMAGES WITHIN THEM), CANNOT BE SHARED OR SOLD COMMERCIALLY.

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DOWNLOAD NON-EDITABLE (PDF)

DOWNLOAD NON-EDITABLE (Zipped JPEGs)

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Additional Pages you may like to explore which cover relevant &/or Connected themes

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Picture Communication

CLICK HERE to visit ‘PICTURE COMMUNICATION’ PAGE.

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Timetables and Routines

CLICK HERE to visit ‘TIMETABLES AND ROUTINES’ PAGE.

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Transitions

CLICK HERE to visit ‘TRANSITIONS’ PAGE.

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All About Me

CLICK HERE to visit ‘ALL ABOUT ME’ PAGE.

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Emotions and Feelings

CLICK HERE to visit ‘EMOTIONS AND FEELINGS’ PAGE.

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Families

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Kindness and Friendship

CLICK HERE to visit ‘KINDNESS AND FRIENDSHIP’ PAGE.

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Mental Health

CLICK HERE to visit ‘MENTAL HEALTH’ PAGE.

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People Who Help Us

CLICK HERE to visit ‘PEOPLE WHO HELP US’ PAGE.

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More Early Years Event Pages for April

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Birthdays

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Passover - 21st-29th April 2027

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St. George's Day - 23rd April 2027

CLICK HERE to visit ‘ST. GEORGE’S DAY’ PAGE.

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Featured

International Dance Day | EYFS & KS1 Activity Ideas

Thursday 29th April 2027: 💃🕺 International Dance Day is a day celebrated every year on April 29th. It was started in 1982 by a group called the Dance Committee of the International Theatre Institute (ITI), which works closely with UNESCO. This day is chosen…

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World Penguin Day | EYFS & KS1 Activity Ideas

Sunday 25th April 2027: 🐧❄️ For early years settings, nurseries, preschools, childminders, and Year 1 and Year 2 classrooms, World Penguin Day provides a fantastic and engaging theme for exploring animals (birds, polar animals, ocean life), habitats, conservation, life cycles,…

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Shakespeare Day | EYFS & KS1 Activity Ideas

Friday 23rd April 2027: 🎭🖋️ For early years settings, nurseries, preschools, childminders, and Year 1 and Year 2 classrooms, Shakespeare Day provides a fantastic and inspiring theme for exploring history (people from the past), storytelling, language and vocabulary, creative arts…

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Earth Day | EYFS & KS1 Activity Ideas

Thursday 22nd April 2027: 🌍💚 Earth Day is a special day celebrated every year on April 22nd. It was started by a man named Senator Gaylord Nelson in the United States in 1970, because he wanted everyone to learn about how important it is to protect…

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Siblings Day | EYFS & KS1 Activity Ideas

Saturday 10th April 2027: 💖👫 Siblings Day is a special day celebrated every year on April 10th in many places. This day was first thought of by a lady named Claudia Evart, who wanted to remember her own brother and sister. It became a day to celebrate the…

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National Unicorn Day | EYFS & KS1 Activity Ideas

Friday 9th April 2027: ✨🦄 National Unicorn Day is a special day celebrated every year on April 9th. This day is all about celebrating the amazing, magical creature that is the unicorn! Unicorns are symbols of purity, innocence, magic, and enchantment, and they…

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World Health Day | EYFS & KS1 Activity Ideas

Wednesday 7th April 2027: 🍎💪 World Health Day is a special day celebrated every year on April 7th. It's organised by the World Health Organization (WHO), which is a big group from the United Nations that helps with health all over the world. This day celebrates…

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International Children’s Book Day | EYFS & KS1 Activity Ideas

Friday 2nd April 2027: 📖✨ International Children’s Book Day (ICBD) is celebrated every year on April 2nd. This special day is chosen because it's the birthday of Hans Christian Andersen, a very famous writer of fairy tales. It was started in 1967 by a group called…

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April Fools’ Day | EYFS & KS1 Activity Ideas

Thursday 1st April 2027: Let's have some giggles and harmless fun with jokes for April Fools’ Day! 😂🗓️ April Fools’ Day is observed annually on April 1st. Its origins are uncertain, with various theories suggesting…

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World Autism Acceptance Month | EYFS & KS1 Activity Ideas

1st - 30th April 2027: ❤️ World Autism Acceptance Month is celebrated every year in April, with a special focus on World Autism Awareness Day on April 2nd. World Autism Awareness Day was first started by the United Nations (UN) in 2007. Over time, the name evolved…

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National Pet Month | EYFS & KS1 Activity Ideas

1st April - 1st May 2027: 🐾❤️ National Pet Month is a special time celebrated every year in the UK from the1st of April to the 1st of May. It's organised by the National Pet Month charity. The main idea of this month is to teach everyone how to be a responsible pet owner and…

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Explore special dates (including awareness dates, festivals, celebrations & events) relevant to your EYFS & KS1 children

Browse our ‘Special Dates Calendar’ page using the link below. You’ll find calendars for every month of the year to aid your planning!

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Click here to visit our ‘Special Dates Calendar’ page for an entire year of key EYFS & KS1 events, festivals & celebrations.

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Click here to visit our ‘EYFS Framework’ page.

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Click here to visit our ‘Special Dates Calendar’ page for an entire year of key EYFS & KS1 events, festivals & celebrations.

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Click here to visit our ‘Festivals & Celebrations’ menu page.

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Click here to visit our ‘Themes’ menu page.

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Disclaimer:
This page is for educational purposes only and is intended to support early years and primary practitioners with ideas and resources related to 'World Autism Acceptance Month'. We are not officially affiliated with or endorsed by the United Nations (UN) or any specific autism advocacy organisation for this event. We do not claim any rights to specific trademarks or official materials associated with this event. World Autism Awareness Day (April 2nd) was designated by the United Nations General Assembly. For official information and themes related to the UN's observance, please visit: www.un.org/en/observances/autism-day. The shift to 'Autism Acceptance Month' has been primarily driven by the autistic community and advocacy groups, and you can find more information from organizations such as the Autistic Self Advocacy Network (ASAN) or the Autism Society of America: www.autism-society.org/get-involved/national-autism-acceptance-month/.

Understanding World Autism Acceptance Month & World Autism Awareness Day in EYFS & KS1

Why Is Learning About Autism Acceptance Important for Young Children?

Engaging Autism Acceptance Activities for World Autism Acceptance Month (0-7 Year Olds)

Promoting Understanding & Acceptance:

Communication and Visual Supports:

Sensory Awareness & Support:

Emotions and Feelings:

Kindness and Friendship:

Development and Learning:

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Printable resources to support teaching & learning surrounding: ‘World Autism Acceptance Month’ & ‘World Autism Awareness Day’

‘Neurodiversity’ and ‘Autism’ educational resources for EYFS and KS1:

‘Fairness’ educational resources for EYFS and KS1:

Visit our ‘Autism’ hub page for additional information and resources:

Additional Pages you may like to explore which cover relevant &/or Connected themes

More Early Years Event Pages for April

Explore special dates (including awareness dates, festivals, celebrations & events) relevant to your EYFS & KS1 children

Search ‘Little Owls Resources’ Using the following Menu Buttons…

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