24/7 Hotlines: Call or text 988 or text 741741
For those of you who don’t know, April is World Autism Awareness Month. By celebrating, we have the opportunity to provide a better understanding and further the acceptance of individuals with Autism. We can do this in many ways.
Autism, or Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) references a variety conditions and characteristics that are accompanied with many challenges. Some of these challenges include trouble with speech, repeat behaviors and trouble with social skills. Autism is a spectrum. Individuals with Autism each have their own unique strengths and obstacles to face.
One of the biggest ways we can support individuals with Autism is through inclusion! Now I know some of you are probably wondering what that means! Well, inclusion is when you are being valued, respected and supported by those around you so that’s why its important. It’s all about focusing on the needs of every person. It also means making sure that you are helping each person reach their full potential. Individuals on the spectrum are just like everyone else and they have the same rights to inclusion that we do! Autism isn’t a disability, it’s just a different ability.
The students with Autism in my classroom are some of the sweetest, kindest and brightest kids I know. It breaks my heart when people aren’t willing to include them in certain activities because of their disabilities. They are capable of doing what everyone else can, they may just need a little more support but that’s okay. Inclusion matters because without it, many will be left out and feeling inadequate which could lead to negative feelings towards themselves. They don’t deserve that. Be more inclusive!
For more information on World Autism Awareness Month, check out Autism Speaks!
Also check out Kailey’s post “What is Sensory Overload?” here on TurningPointCT.org! 🙂
TurningPointCT.org was developed by young people in Connecticut who are in recovery from mental health and substance use issues. We know what it’s like to feel alone, stressed, worried, sad, and angry. We’ve lived through the ups and downs of self-harm, drugs and alcohol, and the struggle to find help.
Learn More »
© 2024 TurningPointCT.org. All Rights Reserved.
Hello, thank you for this post. My son is on the spectrum, he is 18 y/o he had his evaluation when he was 16 and found out he was on the spectrum. I struggle how to support my son. Do you provide any training for parents. Or resources how to help a parent who wants to help his son succeed, make friends and other things he needs ?
Hi! In terms of finding resources, Connecticut Parent Advocacy Center, which is Connecticut’s Resource for Children with Disabilities, is a great place to start. Here is their website: https://cpacinc.org/programs.aspx