Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month: Celebrating Neurodiversity in Arizona
March is Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month, a time dedicated to celebrating individuals with developmental disabilities, reducing stigma, and promoting inclusion across our communities.
💙 History & Purpose of Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month
Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month was officially designated in 1987, when President Ronald Reagan issued a proclamation recognizing the importance of highlighting both the needs and the potential of people with developmental disabilities.
This month serves as a reminder that inclusion is not just about access—it’s about belonging. From schools and workplaces to recreation and community life, March encourages all of us to foster understanding, acceptance, and opportunity for people of all abilities.
🌵 Arizona’s Take on Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month
Here in Arizona, Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month is an opportunity to join a statewide conversation about inclusion.
The Arizona Governor’s Council on Developmental Disabilities often hosts awareness campaigns, community events, or educational initiatives throughout March.
Some communities participate in public service announcements, local gatherings, or awareness events.
At times, Arizona landmarks and buildings participate in “light it up” awareness displays using campaign colors.
Families are encouraged to check local calendars and social media pages for Arizona-based events and ways to get involved.
🏡 Celebrate Neurodiversity at Home
Celebration starts at home. Here are meaningful, family-friendly ways to honor neurodiversity:
🌟 Celebrate Your Child’s Strengths
Create a scrapbook, poster, or collage titled “Amazing Things About [Child’s Name]”. Include:
Big and small victories
Unique interests or talents
Photos, drawings, or notes from family members
Invite siblings to share what they love most about their brother or sister to reinforce pride and connection.
📚 Read & Watch Inclusive Stories
Stories are powerful tools for building understanding:
Younger children: We’re Amazing, 1, 2, 3! (Sesame Street) introduces Elmo’s autistic friend Julia.
Older children: Wonder can spark conversations about kindness, differences, and acceptance.
🌈 Start a March Tradition
Each week of March, learn about a well-known individual with a disability who made a meaningful impact, such as:
Temple Grandin – autism advocate and innovator
Stephen Hawking – scientist who used assistive communication
This helps normalize success and provide positive role models.
📣 Advocacy & Education Activities
Small actions can spark big conversations:
🎨 Have your child draw or paint something that represents who they are, then share it (if comfortable) with a positive message using hashtags like #DDawareness2025 or #Neurodiversity.
✉️ Consider writing a short letter or email to your child’s teacher or classroom explaining the awareness month. Some families offer to read a story about differences or inclusion—many schools welcome this in March.
🧡 Wear orange or yellow, colors often associated with Developmental Disabilities Awareness campaigns. Even a ribbon, pin, or bracelet can invite questions and create teachable moments.
📍 Local Events & Resources in Arizona
Families can look for events and supports throughout the month:
Organizations like the Arizona Developmental Disabilities Planning Council and Raising Special Kids often host webinars, workshops, or resource fairs.
Libraries and community centers may offer sensory-friendly story times or inclusive art events—search locally in areas like Phoenix, Tucson, and surrounding communities.
The Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD) may share success stories or awareness content. Families who are comfortable may consider sharing their own stories to highlight positive outcomes.
🌱 Promoting Inclusion Year-Round
While March shines a spotlight, inclusion is a daily commitment.
Consider taking one action this month that creates lasting change:
Arrange a playdate between your child and a classmate to strengthen peer connections.
Advocate for adaptive or inclusive programming through your local Parks & Recreation department.
Support schools or community groups in expanding inclusive opportunities.
Small steps taken by many families help build more welcoming Arizona communities.
🤝 Celebrate as a Community
Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month is about coming together.
Join Pure Hearts Therapy throughout March as we:
Share daily tips, resources, and stories
Highlight neurodiversity-affirming practices
Celebrate the strengths of the families we serve
Thank you to the teachers, therapists, friends, and allies who choose inclusion every day. By participating in Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month, families help ensure individuals with disabilities are seen, heard, and valued—not just in March, but all year long.
Celebrate Developmental Differences 🩵
📞 Book your free 15-minute consultation to get personalized guidance.
📚 Read more on our blog for helpful articles, sensory-friendly ideas, and real-world strategies.
🎧 Listen to our podcast for expert insights and conversations with other families.
