April is World Autism Month, an opportunity to empower the Autistic community and enhance understanding and awareness. It’s also a time to celebrate and appreciate caretakers and parents, teachers and therapists, self-advocates and brave people sharing their stories. More than 205,000 Australians are Autistic and 1 in 4 Australians have a family member on the autism spectrum. This month is all about shedding light on Autism, fostering global support and empowering every person who contributes to the positive impact on the Autistic community.
World Autism Awareness Day, a day sanctioned by the United Nations (UN), is held on the 2nd of April 2023, and recognises and celebrates the rights of people on the Autism Spectrum. This is an important day for the Autistic community, as it provides a wonderful opportunity to foster a greater understanding, awareness and acceptance of Autism and Autistic people.
What is Autism?
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a developmental condition characterised by difficulties in social interaction, communication, repetitive interests and behaviours, and sensory sensitivities.
Every Autistic person is different, which is why Autism is described as a ‘spectrum’. Autism is a complex developmental disorder, and while many Autistic people experience difficulties, with the right support and a comprehensive understanding of their needs, they can achieve a great quality of life.
How can you help?
There are many great initiatives and ways to show your support and spread awareness throughout this World Autism Month.
Freedom Social Skills are proudly supporting Walk For Autism, an Autism Spectrum Australia initiative that challenges Australians to walk 10,000 steps a day for eight to sixteen days, all while raising funds in support of children and adults on the Autism Spectrum.
Our team at Freedom Social Skills will be challenging ourselves to each walk 10,000 steps a day from 25 March 2023 while raising much needed funds to support people on the Autism Spectrum. You can join us or donate to help us reach our fundraising goal here.
There are plenty of incredible initiatives and organisations that you can be a part of this month to show your support. These include:
- Autism Spectrum Australia
Aspect Australia provide a range of resources and ways to get involved and show your support this month. From donating, fundraising, supporting the ‘Walk for Autism’ initiative and volunteering, they are a great organisation to stand behind, not only this month, but every month.
- Autism South Australia
Visit Autism SA and take a look at their resources, fundraising activity opportunities and donations.
- Encourage your children to participate!
Take a look at these activity ideas and resources that are great to get your kids involved and develop their understanding of Autism, what it means to be Autistic and how they can help.
Other ways you can show your support and spread awareness include sharing information about World Autism Month on social media, wearing something blue on the 2nd of April and encouraging others to join you or make a donation to an organisation or initiative.
At Freedom Social Skills, we are an inclusive, comprehensive, and highly regarded professional service provider for children with Autism and other developmental delays.
Our team are a passionate and hardworking team of professionals that ensure our students are learning skills that will increase their independence, social connection, and overall quality of life.
If you’re interested in learning more about Freedom Social Skills, get in touch with our friendly team today!
