‘World Autism Awareness Day’

It’s World Autism Awareness Day today. The United Nations General Assembly unanimously declared 2nd April as World Autism Awareness Day to highlight the need to help improve the lives of children and adults who suffer from the disorder so they can lead full and meaningful lives.

Autism is a developmental disorder that appears in the first 3 years of life and affects the brain's normal development of social and communication skills. All we need to understand is that a child with autism develops differently.

Here are a few things we ought to keep in mind about Autism: 

1. Autism is a neurological disorder, not a disease. Anyone, anywhere can be born with autism, irrespective of caste, creed, religion or nationality. It’s already hard for such a kid to cope up and we add to the problems rather than helping them out. They don’t ask for much. They just need acceptance in the society. Treat them like you treat every other kid.

2. One out of every 110 children born today has Autism. But does that stop us from loving those innocent souls? Kids are beautiful, the way they are.

3. There is no known cause of autism, hence, no cure. But I guess, some of the countries claim to have a cure. But an early detection and immediate intensive therapy will help children overcome the challenges to a large extent.

4. Autism is a lifelong condition. But no matter the age, people with autism can improve. So let’s help them!

5. “Bad parenting” doesn't cause Autism. Parents should not be demoralized if they do not receive early intervention. 

6. Contrary to popular belief, less than 2% of autistic people have extraordinary talents. This means that they would also need help in basic day-to-day living.

7. Family members should together try and imbibe techniques of working and interacting with autistic children or adults.

8. Autistic people face discrimination for no fault of theirs. Ultimately, the key to successful management of autism is the acceptance of a child the way he or she is by the parents and the community at large.

Education, Awareness and Sensitivity – That’s all we require.