Z Path Autism

It's ok to feel them both - even on the same day, in the same hour or minute!

The North Carolina Statewide Independent Living Council (NCSILC) is sponsoring an emerging youth leader to attend the 2026 Association of Programs for Rural Independent Living (APRIL) Conference to be held in Niagara Falls, NY on October 23-25, 2026. Applications for NC SILC sponsorship are due by July 31, 2026!

NC SILC will cover the cost of conference registration, airfare, lodging, and meals for the selected participant.

Link to the NC SILC sponsorship application: https://ow.ly/fJRP50Zrmyq

See this link for more information about the APRIL Conference: https://ow.ly/fBap50Zrmyr

Autistic people can and want to work, yet too many face barriers to employment that have nothing to do with their skills, talents or desire to contribute.

Autism Speaks is proud to support the newly introduced Disabled Access Credit Modernization Act, which would help small businesses provide reasonable accommodations and remove workplace barriers — helping to create more accessible workplaces for employees with autism.

Read more: https://www.autismspeaks.org/advocacy-news/autism-speaks-applauds-introduction-disabled-access-credit-modernization-act

You've seen us at our Block Party. You've seen us at Kick Off to Pre-K. But do you really know us? 👀

Wake County Smart Start does more than host great community events—we help children ages 0–5 thrive every day.

From early learning programs and school readiness support to family resources and health initiatives, we work alongside families to help ensure children in Wake County have the opportunity to grow, learn, and succeed.

Because a strong start in life makes a lasting difference. 💙

Learn more at wakecountysmartstart.org!

Free Sea Fishing Event for Families

The United Special Sportsman Alliance is hosting a free North Carolina Sea Fishing Event for children ages 6–18 with permanent disabilities or life-threatening illnesses and their families.

The event will take place August 6–7, 2026 in Southport, NC. Families will enjoy a Friday morning fishing trip followed by lunch. The event is limited to 35 families, so interested families are encouraged to contact USSA as soon as possible.

For more information, call (800) 518-8019 or email [email protected].
View the Full Flyer and Event Details → https://ow.ly/GUvi50ZoyBf

When a child keeps saying “no,” it can feel like they’re being difficult on purpose.

But often, “no” is the only word they can find when something feels too big, too fast, too scary, or too out of their control.

“No” might mean:
I need a little control.
I’m overwhelmed.
I don’t know how to start.
I’m anxious.
I need connection before cooperation.
I’m still learning where the boundaries are.

This doesn’t mean we ignore limits. Children still need clear boundaries, routines and expectations.

But the way we respond matters.

A calm adult can turn a power struggle into a teachable moment:
“I can see this is hard.”
“You have two choices.”
“We’re still leaving, and I’ll help you.”
“Take a minute, then we’ll try again.”

Sometimes the shift is simply moving from “They won’t” to “They can’t yet.”

That one thought can change the whole moment.

Because behaviour is communication, and behind the refusal there is often a child who needs help feeling safe, capable, connected and understood.

FREE WHY CHILDREN SAY NO: BEHAVIOUR SUPPORT PRINTABLE PDF

LIKE the photo and comment "WHY" and we will send you a message with a link to a free PDF of this resource.