April 2 - World Autism Awareness Day

April 2 is designated as World Autism Awareness Day to increase understanding, acceptance and foster worldwide support for people living with autism. Today, thousands of landmarks, buildings, homes, and communities around the world light blue in recognition of people living with autism. 

In honor of World Autism Awareness Day, we'd like to introduce you to this cutie Ryan, Allison's nephew. 

Allison's brother John, sister-in-law Sarah and Ryan live with autism daily. 

Our wonderful community of knit and crochet designers have come up with many patterns to bring awareness to autism. An example is this beautiful Puzzle Scarf by Issa Garrison. 

The puzzle pattern is a symbol of autism and reflects the complexity of the autism spectrum. The different colors and shapes represent the diversity of the people and families living with the condition. 

The Puzzle Scarf is done in Tunisian crochet and calls for worsted weight yarn.  It's a free pattern on Ravelry - click here. Check out other great patterns that help promote autism awareness on Ravelry. 

Light it Blue logo courtesy of Autism Speaks. 

For a useful internet safety guide for people with ASD, click here.