Children with autism deserve equal access to daycare, just like any other child. Yet, many Texas daycare centers routinely turn away children with autism, citing staffing shortages or lack of resources—excuses that often mask outright discrimination.

I have personally experienced this unjust treatment. My grandson, who has autism, was welcomed back to his daycare in Terrell, Texas, only to be told two weeks later that his teacher "couldn’t handle him" and that they "didn’t have the staff." This was a clear violation of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), as the daycare explicitly stated that his autism was the reason they could not accommodate him, claiming concerns about his safety.

When I reminded the director that she had personally encouraged me to bring him back when I enrolled his baby sister, it was clear she had prior knowledge of his needs. This daycare is part of a national corporation that advertises inclusivity for children with disabilities—yet their actions proved otherwise. Over the next several months, I watched them hire new employees and enroll additional children, making it evident that staffing was never the real issue.

Unfortunately, this wasn’t an isolated experience. When I sought care at another daycare, the director immediately discouraged me from enrolling my grandson after learning he has autism and is not fully potty trained. These repeated exclusions reveal a pattern of discrimination, making it nearly impossible for families like mine to find suitable childcare.

Some may argue that specialized ADA-compliant schools exist for children with autism, but in Texas, the majority of these institutions do not accept Texas Medicaid. If a parent lacks private insurance or cannot afford out-of-pocket costs, these schools remain inaccessible, leaving families with no viable options.

We demand that Texas daycare centers uphold disability rights and stop discriminating against children with autism. Specifically, we call for:

• Stronger enforcement of ADA protections to hold daycare providers accountable. 
• Mandatory staff training on autism and inclusive childcare practices 
• Transparency in enrollment decisions to prevent arbitrary refusals.

No child should be denied the opportunity to learn, grow, and be part of a supportive community. Sign this petition to urge Texas lawmakers, childcare regulators, and daycare administrators to take action now!

Sign the petition and help us fight for inclusion!