April is World Autism Month. At CPS we share our lives with many unique individuals. April is all about getting to know and understand the people who make up our wonderful community, and acknowledging the strengths, achievements and uniqueness of people with Autism.
World Autism Understanding Day is April 2nd.
What is Autism?
Autism is a neurodevelopmental condition that impacts how a person experiences the world around them. Autism affects how the individual thinks, feels, experiences their environment, interacts and communicates with others.
This means that people with Autism experience differences in the way they communicate and interact socially, and their behaviour may be repetitive or highly focused. People with Autism also tend to experience differences with their senses that can affect the way they feel about and respond to their surroundings.
Every individual with Autism is different. Autism is also known as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). ‘Spectrum’ refers to the wide range of characteristics, skills and abilities that different people with Autism have. Every person experiences Autism differently and has different support needs. Although the core characteristics of Autism can cause a range of challenges, individuals with Autism also have unique strengths, skills and capabilities.
Understanding
At CPS we can be inclusive of our classmates on the autism spectrum by
- Show kindness and friendship.
- Ask if they want to join in, but don’t be offended it they want to sit it out.
- Be patient and give them time to share their thoughts.
- Don’t worry if things like noise, smell or light get too much and they get upset, excited or need to move away.
- Ask about their hobbies and special interests, you may learn some really great things!
What’s On?
We encourage the community to ignite change this April by participating in an event in their community, learning more about Autism, and visiting the Light Up the Spectrum landmarks over the weekend of the 1st and 2nd of April to mark the end of this special week.
Whether you are an individual with Autism, a family, school, community group, or workplace, there are many ways you can help to increase awareness and understanding of Autism.
It would be great to have some families share photos of ‘Light Up the Spectrum’.
Click the link below to discover the activities taking place throughout World Autism Week and Month for you to get started, ignite change and grow together!