This April, help to spread awareness, understanding and respect for
those who suffer from autism and Asperger’s syndromes. Autism is an
increasingly prevalent part of our society and promoting understanding will
help people on the spectrum to feel accepted and supported.
What is the Autism
Spectrum?
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a range of complex
behaviors that may leave those afflicted with an inability to fit in socially.
They may also experience trouble communicating effectively and display
repetitive patterns of behavior. The autism spectrum is very wide and people
may experience symptoms which range from mild to severe in nature.
ASD occurs in all ethnic groups, age groups and socioeconomic
groups and experts estimate that 1 in every 88 children ages 8 and under have
ASD. Studies show that boys are 4 times more likely to have ASD than girls.
Because children with ASD sometimes have trouble fitting in,
they may find it difficult to thrive in a traditional school environment and
are often the victims of bullying and negativity from children and adults.
Spreading awareness will help to alleviate some of the difficulties that ASD
children and their families have to deal with. Promoting understanding will
create communities where children with ASD are supported and given the best
chance to develop and fulfill their incredible potential.
Why should I Support
Autism Awareness Month?
Many children with ASD need special support for learning and
growing and their families need counseling and assistance. Special needs tutoring and education can
often come at a high price, but it’s crucial to allow children with ASD to
excel and grow to their full potential.
Children with ASD may also need medication or other
therapies that families struggle to afford. Support one of the many Autism
Awareness activities in your area that will raise funds for children and their
families in April.
If you are not able to participate in these activities, you
can do your bit for Autism Awareness month by educating yourself and your
family about ASD and how to best help those who have it. You and your family
can also volunteer at one of the many organizations that support families and
children with ASD.
Take the Twizzler
Challenge
You did the ice bucket challenge, now try the Twizzler
challenge to support Autism Awareness Month. Post a video of you and someone
else eating licorice Lady-and-the-Tramp style. Then, nominate someone else to
do the same!
Post to social media using the hastag's #TwizzlerChallenge
#AutismCanada.
Resources for
families
Want to know more about ASD and help to educate your kids?
Here are some resources to help you.
Contact the Autism Society in Canada here.
Find additional Canadian Resources here:
Contact the Autism Society in the US here.
Find additional resources here:
Contact the Autism Society in the UK here.
Find additional resources here:
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