autism Archives

AppWizard

February 15, 2026

Productivity apps failed me when I needed them most

Many individuals struggle with productivity apps due to issues such as cluttered interfaces, steep learning curves, unhelpful notifications, and the tendency of apps to overpromise and underdeliver. Personal challenges, including health issues and neurodivergent conditions, can exacerbate these difficulties, leading to burnout and frustration. Users often feel disillusioned by the lack of effective solutions from popular platforms like TickTick and Asana, which can contribute to feelings of overwhelm. Alternatives like Notion and Obsidian may introduce new complexities rather than simplify task management. Even apps designed for neurodivergent individuals may not meet their specific needs. Some users have begun to adopt a more flexible and compassionate approach to productivity, experimenting with different apps and strategies, such as splitting tasks based on urgency or using self-hosted applications like Jotty Page for better organization. The journey towards effective productivity is personal and requires consideration of individual health and mental well-being.

AppWizard

January 22, 2026

1.org Launches Android App and Partners with Guide Dogs of America

1.org, a charitable search engine operated by System1, has partnered with Guide Dogs of America | Tender Loving Canines (GDA | TLC) to direct a portion of its search-driven advertising revenue to the training and placement of guide and service dogs. Users can support this initiative by installing the 1.org browser extension or Android app, creating a free account, and selecting a charity. Revenue from advertisements displayed in search results is allocated to the chosen nonprofit, allowing users to track their contributions without needing donation forms. This partnership supports individuals who are blind or visually impaired, veterans with PTSD, and children with autism. Additionally, 1.org has introduced a referral feature that allows users to invite others to join the platform, resulting in further donations to the selected charity. 1.org operates as a registered Charitable Fundraising Platform in California, supporting various nonprofit organizations. GDA | TLC specializes in training guide and service dogs to enhance the lives of individuals in need.

AppWizard

October 10, 2025

Binding of Isaac dev rejects writing “safe” things, creates a strategy game where you can give cats cancer

Designer and artist Edmund McMillen has announced his new project, Mewgenics, a randomly generated turn-based strategy game featuring cats and elements of breeding simulation. The game has been in development for six years and is inspired by McMillen's experiences with real cats and the implications of breeding practices. It includes gameplay mechanics influenced by neurodiversity, such as traits like ADHD and autism affecting cat abilities. Mewgenics features a complex system with thousands of potential combinations for players. The game is set to release on February 10, 2026, on Steam.

AppWizard

April 14, 2025

☀️’Minecraft’, Jesus Lead Box Office Resurgence

Rory McIlroy won The Masters, achieving his career Grand Slam. Paramount is experiencing a strong start to Q2, with Cooper Flagg helping Duke achieve an 8-year ratings high and the men's championship game attracting 18.1 million viewers. The Naked Gun debuted successfully at CinemaCon, and MI:8 is projected for a record opening. 60 Minutes is performing well despite political challenges, and MobLand garnered 8.8 million global viewers in its first week on Paramount+. WBD paid its top 5 executives over million in compensation in 2024, while its stock was down approximately 7%. The source of autism is expected to be discovered by September, according to RFK Jr. Cosmopolitan is launching a sports content outlet called Cosmo Sports, and OpenAI is offering free ChatGPT Plus to college students through May. Disney is discounting at Disney World this summer, likely due to the upcoming opening of Universal's Epic theme park. Director Don Mischer passed away at the age of 85.

AppWizard

April 12, 2025

‘My recreated Minecraft university is helping autistic students’

De Montfort University (DMU) in Leicester has created a virtual campus in Minecraft to support students with autism, allowing them to socialize and build friendships. Eden Turner, a 23-year-old student, has reconstructed parts of the university, including the library, to create a welcoming environment for autistic students. Clare Squires, DMU's autism officer, emphasized the initiative's role in fostering community and belonging, particularly for new students. The project helps reduce anxiety by familiarizing students with the campus layout and providing a low-pressure space for interaction. Plans are in place for Eden to expand the virtual campus further.

AppWizard

December 26, 2024

Devoted Dad Quit His Job to Run First Minecraft Server for Autistic Kids

In 2013, Stuart Duncan, known as AutismFather, created Autcraft, a dedicated Minecraft server for children with autism and their families, to provide a safe and inclusive online environment. This initiative was inspired by his son's love for Minecraft and the bullying faced by many children on the autism spectrum in traditional gaming spaces. Duncan left his job as a web developer to focus on Autcraft full-time, which now serves over 17,000 players. The server includes supportive features like the "Bully Board" for sharing experiences of bullying and emphasizes community connection and mutual support.

AppWizard

October 20, 2024

How a single dad from Timmins, Ont., built an alternate Minecraft server for the autistic community | CBC News

Stuart Duncan, a father from Timmins, Ontario, created the AutCraft server in 2013 to provide a safe gaming environment for autistic children who faced bullying on public Minecraft servers. Players must receive approval from moderators to join, ensuring respectful treatment and support. Initially expecting around a dozen players, Duncan received 750 requests within two days of announcing the server. AutCraft has since welcomed over 17,600 players, fostering a sense of belonging and creativity. Duncan's work has been recognized in the book "The World of Minecraft" and a special edition of Time Magazine. He has also delivered a TED Talk on the benefits of Minecraft for children with autism and is inspiring others to create similar supportive communities.