Business Workshop

What Every Parent Hopes You’ll Understand 

When families with autistic children go out in public — to restaurants, stores, banks, or entertainment venues — they’re often carrying more than just a shopping list or to-do list. They’re carrying anxiety. Anxiety about how their child might be treated, judged, stared at, or even turned away.

Many parents report avoiding certain businesses altogether because the staff simply aren’t equipped to respond with compassion and understanding when their child behaves in ways that aren’t considered “typical.” From meltdowns in checkout lines to communication challenges at the counter, what’s a minor interaction to most customers can feel like an overwhelming event for an autistic individual — and a test of dignity for the family.

I remember taking my son Liam to the grocery store. He was nonverbal at the time. When we got to the cashier, she asked him a question and waited. When he didn’t answer, she looked frustrated and said, “He doesn’t even look autistic.” As his dad, I was stunned. I didn’t know whether to defend him or just get out of there as fast as I could. But it stuck with me — what if staff had been trained? What if they understood?

Autism Support Unit (ASU) provides in-person autism awareness training for businesses to ensure your staff knows how to respond with empathy and effectiveness. Whether you serve families, employ neurodivergent individuals, or simply want to foster a more inclusive environment, our workshops offer the tools, understanding, and certification that set your business apart.

With practical strategies, real scenarios, and sensory kit demos, we help your team create a space where autistic customers feel welcome — and where parents like me don’t have to choose between avoiding your business or bracing for humiliation.

Faith-Based Organizations & Nonprofits Welcome

Autism Support Unit is proud to support churches, faith-based groups, and nonprofits in creating more inclusive, understanding spaces for individuals with autism and their families.

There are many families in your community who want to attend services and events, but often hold back out of concern — unsure if their child will be welcomed, supported, or understood. With the right training, your team can help change that.

Our Business Workshop packages are a great fit for churches and nonprofit organizations, whether you're training greeters, children’s ministry volunteers, event staff, or leadership. We’ll work with you to find the right fit for your space and needs.

If you’re a church or nonprofit ready to take that step toward deeper inclusion and awareness, we’d be honored to work with you. Just fill out the form below and we’ll connect.