Autistic children need

“In order to start doing this we need to diagnose the condition as early as possible, provide affordable early therapy and early intervention programmes,” the ASTT said in a media release for the seventh annual Autism Week which began on Sunday. The theme this year is: “Respect the unique nature of autism.”

The ASTT also called for support for families and meaningful education for children and young persons with autism. It said like other citizens, the young person with autism should be able to live as independent a life as possible, work at a job they like, and experience friendship on their own terms and have a feeling of self worth.

Autism awareness week aims to increase the public’s understanding of autism spectrum disorders and “help create a supportive environment for families, educators and caregivers” in society.

The ASTT said autism is a complex and challenging brain disorder which affects all aspects of a person’s development and impacts on the family.

It said the challenges associated with autism were reason enough for increasing public awareness.

The ASTT said its resources as a parent/support group were limited and depended on the goodwill of the public and private sector.

During the week of awareness, the ASTT will highlight the unique nature of persons with autism.

The characteristics of the disorder include — limited eye contact, lack of creative or pretend play, difficulty with communication and socialisation. People with autism also show a range of sensory problems and transitioning problems.

“There is the real danger of stereotyping persons with autism and dwelling on their challenges rather than their strengths and abilities.”

The ASTT said research is showing that persons with autism use their brains in unusual ways such as memorising letters of the alphabet in the same part of their brain that processes shapes.

They also use the visual centres at the back of their brain for tasks handled by the prefrontal cortex. “They often look at the mouth area instead of the eyes of someone who is speaking.”

Apart from radio interviews, on Friday, between 2.30 and 5.30 pm, the ASTT will have information booths at Chin Kit Park, Pt Fortin; Culf City Mall, San Fernando, Trincity Mall and Long Circular Mall.

A family day will be hosted at the Lady Hochoy Home in Gasparillo on Saturday from 11.30 am.

Families are asked to bring their picnic lunch. There will be Peppy the mascot, a clown and bouncy castle to entertain children.

Volunteers and others willing to assist the ASTT are asked to call 663-8397.