While participating in the Family Leaders for Ohio Schools Academy at the Ohio Statewide Family Engagement Center, Ohio parent Simon’e developed the “Friends Who Are Different” program.
Friends Who Are Different is an innovative program to promote autism awareness and inclusion among elementary students. The program helps young learners understand that everyone’s brain works differently—and that these differences should be respected and celebrated.
Simon’e designed the curriculum to be delivered in three engaging sessions. The sessions introduce students to autism through age-appropriate stories, discussions, and creative activities.
- The first session, “What is Autism?,” encourages students to explore how they think and learn.
- The second, “Being a Good Friend,” teaches students how to be a supportive friend through role-playing and videos.
- The final session, “Let’s Include Everyone,” emphasizes inclusion and concludes with a classroom “Friendship Tree” and a pledge to be kind and inclusive.
The program benefits the entire school community: students with autism feel more accepted, general education students develop empathy, and educators gain tools to grow inclusive classrooms. Families are reassured by a school culture that values understanding and belonging.
Parents who attend the Family Leaders for Ohio Schools Academy design projects and create a plan to implement them locally. Want to be inspired by more parent leadership stories or attend the Academy? Visit our Family Leaders for Ohio Schools Academy page!