As Autism Awareness month comes to a close, I would like to take the time to summarize some points that were made throughout the month...
To the general public:
If you see a family out in town who is struggling to complete a task such as grocery shopping or dining out due to their child's behaviors. Do not assume they are "bad parents" and can't "control their child". Do not think the child "just needs more discipline". For parents who have children with autism, public outings can be quite difficult. The change in routine, loud noises, bright lights and awkward social interactions cause children with autism to become confused, anxious and fearful... sometimes to the point that they become flight risks, or become shut down. Parents often overcome the embarrassment that this causes for their family due to the necessity of tasks or just because they have been through it enough. However, they likely do not overlook the comments that are made by onlookers (good or bad). When you see a family that you know is struggling, offer your support. Open the door, Ask what you can do, smile at them and tell them it's ok. Be patient and be kind. A little compassion goes a looooong way!
If you own a business in town, do your best to learn about autism and related conditions so that you can accommodate these families. If you are a public service worker, please take note. You may find yourself assisting a child with autism one day. It will become essential to know how to communicate with that child so that you can do your job to help them.
For more information about autism, you can visit www.autism-society.org, www.autismspeaks.org, www.icdl.com, www.profectum.org. Also, watch the HBO special, Temple Grandin and read her book: Thinking in Pictures. It will provide insight into the mind of an adult who grew up with autism.
You can also learn more by attending workshops held by Jasper Outreach in Newton, IL.
Why learn more? Because autism is here. Children with autism are growing into adults. There is no avoiding it. You will know someone with autism in your lifetime. They might work with you, for you, or move in next door. People with autism have great abilities and have a lot to offer this world. Why not learn how to communicate with them? It may open more doors than you realize!
- Autism is classified as a developmental disability, which primarily affects a person's ability in social interaction and communication. Autism is known as a spectrum disorder because it affects each individual in different ways and to varying degrees.
- Children and adults on the spectrum are unique in that they perceive the world differently. Their ability to process incoming sensation is compromised, and interferes with their ability to communicate and socialize.
- No two individuals with autism are alike. Even among twins, they have unique personalities and abilities just like anyone else. They eat, think, play, work and love just like you. However, every day tasks require much more effort. We need to see the person behind the diagnosis and help them reach their potential.
- The CDC recently raised the rate of diagnosis to 1 in 88 children. 1 in 88 children are diagnosed with autism! 12 school aged children receive services for autism in the small community of Jasper County. This is not including those who are not school aged and who do not wish to share a diagnosis of autism with the school system.
- No big smiles or other warm, joyful expressions by 6 months or thereafter
- No back-and-forth sharing of sounds, smiles, or other facial expressions by nine months or thereafter
- No babbling by 12 months
- No back-and-forth gestures, such as pointing, showing, reaching, or waving by 12 months
- No words by 16 months
- No two-word meaningful phrases (without imitating or repeating) by 24 months
- Any loss of speech, babbling or social skills at any age
To the general public:
If you see a family out in town who is struggling to complete a task such as grocery shopping or dining out due to their child's behaviors. Do not assume they are "bad parents" and can't "control their child". Do not think the child "just needs more discipline". For parents who have children with autism, public outings can be quite difficult. The change in routine, loud noises, bright lights and awkward social interactions cause children with autism to become confused, anxious and fearful... sometimes to the point that they become flight risks, or become shut down. Parents often overcome the embarrassment that this causes for their family due to the necessity of tasks or just because they have been through it enough. However, they likely do not overlook the comments that are made by onlookers (good or bad). When you see a family that you know is struggling, offer your support. Open the door, Ask what you can do, smile at them and tell them it's ok. Be patient and be kind. A little compassion goes a looooong way!
If you own a business in town, do your best to learn about autism and related conditions so that you can accommodate these families. If you are a public service worker, please take note. You may find yourself assisting a child with autism one day. It will become essential to know how to communicate with that child so that you can do your job to help them.
For more information about autism, you can visit www.autism-society.org, www.autismspeaks.org, www.icdl.com, www.profectum.org. Also, watch the HBO special, Temple Grandin and read her book: Thinking in Pictures. It will provide insight into the mind of an adult who grew up with autism.
You can also learn more by attending workshops held by Jasper Outreach in Newton, IL.
Why learn more? Because autism is here. Children with autism are growing into adults. There is no avoiding it. You will know someone with autism in your lifetime. They might work with you, for you, or move in next door. People with autism have great abilities and have a lot to offer this world. Why not learn how to communicate with them? It may open more doors than you realize!
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