Why Community Matters: How Connection Helps Families Raising Autistic Children Thrive
Why Community Matters When Raising a Neurodivergent Child
When you’re raising a neurodivergent child, community isn’t just helpful — it’s essential. But many parents quietly struggle with something that’s far more common than people realize:
Feeling alone. Even when surrounded by people.
On this episode of the Autism Family Resource Podcast, host Brian Keene, OTD, OTR/L (Pure Hearts Therapy), sits down with autistic advocate Mandy Pinkley to talk about the real power of finding “your people.” Together, they explore how support groups, connection, and shared experiences help families move from isolation to hope.
This post breaks down the biggest insights from the episode and offers practical ways parents can begin building their own supportive communityd.
The Hidden Isolation Many Parents Experience
Most families don’t expect to feel alone on this journey — but so many do.
Sometimes it’s because:
No one else in your immediate circle truly “gets it.”
You’re busy juggling appointments, school meetings, meltdowns, and daily life.
You’re afraid of judgment or misunderstanding.
You don’t know where to start or who to reach out to.
And Mandy put it perfectly:
“Everyone is waiting for someone else to raise their hand first.”
The truth is, most families feel the same way — they’re simply waiting for someone to speak up.
How Finding Community Builds Confidence (For Parents & Kids)
Mandy shared her own deeply personal story. Early in her life, she was told that publicly sharing she was autistic would “ruin her career.” She learned to hide who she was.
But connecting with other autistic people completely changed her life.
She found peers who:
understood her without explanation
embraced their identity
spoke openly and confidently
made her feel seen, safe, and inspired
That sense of belonging became the confidence she needed to be herself — fully.
Parents often describe a similar experience when they find other families on the same path. Community reminds you that:
you’re not failing
your child is not “behind”
you’re not alone
your experiences are valid
your child’s differences are not a burden
Belonging changes everything.
Digital Communities Are Helping Families More Than Ever
While in-person groups are powerful, digital spaces play a huge role — especially for families lacking local support.
Online communities can give you:
access to autistic voices
parent support groups
Q&A communities
sensory-friendly event listings
advocacy and educational resources
Mandy shared that digital connection helped her feel less alone, especially when she couldn’t find people in her local area who understood her experiences.
The digital world isn’t perfect, but it is a lifeline.
Parents Often Discover Their Own Neurodivergence Too
A powerful point Mandy made:
Many parents don’t realize they share autistic traits with their children until they start connecting with others.
Brian echoed this, explaining how often parents have “lightbulb moments” during therapy sessions when they recognize their child’s sensory experiences in themselves.
Community creates space for self-understanding — for the whole family.
Support Looks Different for Every Family
Not everyone thrives in big groups. Not everyone loves online groups. Not everyone wants to talk in front of others.
And that’s okay.
Support can be:
a group
one friend
a mentor
a Facebook group
an online forum
a text-only parent chat
a therapist
a community center
a digital network
a playdate with one other family
There is no “right way” to build community — just the way that works for your family.
What If There Aren’t Many Local Options? (Small Town Families)
Mandy shared an important strategy:
Find the “lighthouse” organizations.
These include places like:
CARD (Center for Autism & Related Disabilities)
Family Inclusion Networks (FIN)
Local disability support agencies
Local advocacy nonprofits
These organizations often have:
family liaisons
resource guides
online support circles
parent mentors
county-wide support networks
rural outreach programs
They can help you identify what does exist, connect you with others, or even help you start your own group.
You Can Be the One Who Creates the Space
This was one of Mandy’s most impactful insights.
If the support you need doesn’t exist…
You can be the person who creates it.
A Facebook group.
A sensory-friendly playdate.
A parent coffee meet-up.
A group text for local families.
A monthly park meetup.
A support circle at the library.
You don’t need a big plan — you just need one brave moment.
And that one moment may create something families have needed for years.
Helping Your Child Build Community & Belonging
Parents often wonder how to help their child feel included, connected, and supported.
Here are a few starting points:
Attend free local events and playgroups
Look for sensory-friendly community events
Join homeschool meetups or co-ops
Attend library story times
Explore nature groups or social skills groups
Let your child take the lead and follow their passions
Create playdates that honor your child’s sensory needs
Even one positive connection can make a huge difference.
Final Thoughts: You’re Not Alone — And You Don’t Have to Do This Alone
The theme of today’s episode was clear:
Connection transforms families.
Belonging builds confidence.
Community reduces isolation.
And if you’re feeling alone right now, there is a place for you — and you don’t have to find it by yourself.
Pure Hearts Therapy is here to support both you and your child every step of the way.
⭐ CALL TO ACTION (for Pure Hearts Therapy Website)
If you’re looking for support, encouragement, or therapy services designed with neurodiversity-affirming care in mind:
👉 Schedule a free consultation with Pure Hearts Therapy
We serve families throughout Arizona with home-based Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy, and Speech Therapy.
👉 Want more resources like this?
Subscribe to the Autism Family Resource Podcast on your favorite platform.
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You don’t have to walk this journey alone.
Pure Hearts Therapy is here to walk with you.
