Arttimez, March 2025 : As April marks Autism Awareness and Acceptance Month, the spotlight turns toward the increasing need for inclusive policies, early intervention, and caregiver well-being. This global observance, initiated in 1970 by the Autism Society of America and anchored by World Autism Awareness Day on April 2nd (recognized by the United Nations), calls for deeper societal engagement with the needs of autistic individuals and their families. This year’s theme, “Celebrate Differences,” encourages the embracing of neurodiversity and the creation of inclusive ecosystems across homes, schools, workplaces, and communities. In this context, Mugdha Kalra’s groundbreaking book, “I See You, I Get You: The Self-Care Guide for Special Needs Parents”, has emerged as an essential resource. Launched during the India Inclusion Summit and the Indian Neurodiversity Summit in Bangalore, the book is a timely companion for families, educators, and employers alike.
A Book That Begins a Movement : The book speaks directly to the emotional, financial, and social challenges faced by parents of neurodivergent children, particularly in India, where systemic support remains inadequate. Mugdha Kalra—an award-winning broadcast journalist, BBC 100 Women 2021 honoree, and co- founder of Not That Different—draws from her personal experience as a caregiver and her professional expertise in inclusion advocacy. Through a mix of practical strategies and reflective insights, the book encourages caregivers to prioritize their well-being—not just for themselves, but to better support their children. It also pushes for corporate policies that include caregivers, asserting that empowering caregivers can transform the larger disability ecosystem. “When corporates hire caregivers, they empower entire families to lead more stable and fulfilling lives and this kind of support ripples out, fostering confidence and independence across the disability community”, Mugdha explains.
