Tessa in the News
Check out where Tessa Watkins has been publicly recognized and celebrated by news media outlets, podcasts, and more.
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Brief History of Autism
Not much is known about Autism Spectrum Disorder since the studies of autism are just over 100 years old. Learn about the history of ASD from an autistic self-advocate in this 7-minute video.
Disability & Mental Health Summit 2023
The 10th annual Disability & Mental Health Summit will be Thursday, May 11, 2023, at the Beth El Synagogue. This year’s program will feature two keynote sessions, each of which will be followed by a legislative panel. A morning panel will focus on mental health, and an afternoon panel willRead More »Disability & Mental Health Summit 2023
My 5 Pranking Rules of Engagement
If you’re like me and you don’t always understand social cues but you also like to be a prankster for April Fool’s day, here are the rules I’ve come up with to ensure my pranks remain safe and fun for everyone.
Tessa talks to Biz about Autism on the One Bad Mother Podcast
Tessa and Biz talk about autism in this podcast episode of One Bad Mother. This is a 2-part series because Tessa infodumped during their recording session. What an autistic thing to do.
Lateral Ableism—“PDA Extraordinaire” Harry J. Thompson accusations within his own community
Learn more about Harry Thompson “PDA Extraordinaire” and the accusations of him using his neurotype as an excuse to hurt people in his community with lateral ableism.
The world is a cruel place which is why we need safe spaces
If the world is a cruel place, why can’t your home be your child’s one guaranteed safe place? Don’t be your kid’s first bully.
Mt. Lebanon playgrounds get Point-N-Play banners to foster inclusivity
Playground banners located at the Mt. Lebanon Park, WIlliamsburg Park, and Meadowcroft provide an alternative communication method for kids.
Connect with your Autistic Partner using the Bond Touch
A product review about the Bond Touch bracelets from an autistic adult married to an allistic one. Learn how we used these devices to amplify autistic communication in our home!
Angry/Violent Meltdowns in Toddlers
Learn about angry and violent meltdowns and the techniques I use to get our family through them safely.
Our Behavioral Disaster at the Airport
My partner, 4-year-old autistic child, and I flew transatlantic to visit family and we had one of the worst meltdowns of our lives in the airport.
I don’t want my kid to be Trans
Are you a parent wishing your child grows up to be normal? You’re not alone and there’s a good reason you might feel that way.