Seen, Not Missed: A Parent's Guide to Recognizing and Supporting Autism in Black
Seen, Not Missed
A Practical Guide for Parents and Teachers of Black Girls Who May Be Autistic
Because every girl deserves to be seen, understood, and supported.
What if the signs have been there all along, but no one knew what to look for?
She's quiet at school but overwhelmed at home. She's described as shy, dramatic, sensitive, or having an attitude. Her teachers say she's doing fine, but you know there's more to her story.
For many Black girls, signs of autism can be overlooked, misunderstood, or mistaken for personality traits and behavioral challenges.
Seen, Not Missed was created to help change that.
Developed by Adanna Burrell, M.S., CCC-SLP, a licensed speech-language pathologist with more than 17 years of experience, including autism assessment, this practical resource helps parents, caregivers, and educators recognize patterns, document concerns, advocate for evaluations, and begin providing meaningful support.
What's Inside the Guide?
Home and School Look-Fors: Recognize patterns in social communication, emotional regulation, sensory experiences, routines, and everyday interactions.
Looking Beyond Labels: Understand what may be happening when a girl is described as "shy," "dramatic," "defiant," or "picky."
Notice and Note Observation Log: Document behaviors, possible triggers, and helpful supports over one to two weeks.
Evaluation Request Guidance: Learn how to request an evaluation through your child's school or healthcare provider, including a sample written request.
Parent Advocacy Scripts: Find practical language to use when concerns are dismissed or you're told, "She's fine."
Strategies You Can Start Today: Explore simple, supportive approaches for sensory needs, communication, routines, and emotional regulation.
Helpful Terms and Resources: Better understand masking, IEPs, 504 Plans, independent educational evaluations, and neuroaffirming support.
Who Is This Guide For?
This resource is designed for:
Parents and caregivers who suspect their daughter may be autistic.
Families whose concerns have been dismissed or overlooked.
Teachers and educators who want to better recognize the needs of Black girls.
Parents preparing to request a school-based or medical evaluation.
Anyone seeking a culturally responsive, strengths-based approach to supporting Black girls.
Why This Guide Matters
Black girls deserve more than labels. They deserve understanding, appropriate evaluations, and support that honors who they are.
You don't need to wait for a diagnosis to begin listening, documenting, advocating, and creating a more supportive environment.
Your observations matter. Your voice matters. And her needs deserve to be seen.
Product Details
Format: Digital PDF download
Delivery: Electronic download
Created by: Adanna Burrell, M.S., CCC-SLP
Publisher: Speak It Therapy Solutions
Important: This resource is an educational observation and advocacy tool. It is not a diagnostic assessment and does not replace an evaluation by a qualified professional.
Ready to help her feel seen? Get your copy of Seen, Not Missed today.
