For many Autistic students, the end of the school year is not lighter. It may actually be less predictable, more socially demanding, louder, and full of transitions.

The first few weeks of school often go smoothly. Everyone is fresh, polite, and hopeful. But for many Autistic students, that “honeymoon” depends on masking—suppressing natural regulation needs and social communication differences to blend in.

Are you happy that it's summer? For kids, summertime means sunny days at the beach, the park, the playground, and the pool. Yet, these...