Autism and Awareness

By Medha Saraiya

April 13

What is Autism?

Autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder affecting the brain. A child with autism may experience challenges with social skills, making eye contact, repetitive behaviours, and trouble with speech. Autism is also known as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).

The term ‘specter’ is used as a child can display one, many or all the challenges and they can be either verbal or non-verbal.

Importance of Autism Awareness Month

Autism affects many children in our community, and it impacts the family and the community. We need to remember that parents and guardians tending to the needs of a child on the spectrum are their main ally and advocate.

Acceptance and awareness are synonyms used to being open, compassionate and above all, kind. Give a smile to a parent that is struggling with a child throwing a tantrum over the candy bar that they are so desperately managing to keep them from.

Don’t be judgmental, don’t assume you know what is going on. Ask questions! Be there for a parent with a shoulder to lean on, as they might feel isolated. Above all, teach your kids about inclusivity and acceptance and how to treat others who might be a bit different than them.

Be kind and be there.