Autism impacts over 75,000,000 people in the world. However, it is often stigmatized because these children have trouble with social skills. Those who aren’t exposed to the disorder daily may not know how to interact with these types of children. With April being autism awareness month, here are a few things you can do.
Gain Insight Into Their Personal Experiences
People with autism experience sensory overload, making it difficult to walk down the street. You can find youtube videos that stimulate this type of experience. You can also find content created by people with autism, such as Carly Fleischmann.
Seeing these videos encourages compassion. You could try to have a quieter phone conversation or turn down your ringtone when out in public. Learning about other peoples challenges can also make you appreciate your life a little more.
Engage on Social Media
If you know someone with autism, share your story online. It can help spread awareness and build a more positive message. Follow organizations online that support these causes, such as Autism Speaks.
Connect with parents in your kid’s classes who have children with autism and friend them on Facebook. Then encourage them to post stories about their experiences this month. Also, like and share their posts to continue spreading the word. You’ll end up learing more ways to support those with autism. This allows you to teach your kids how to interact with those students appropriately.
Go to Autism Awareness Events
Attend local events in your community, such as fundraising walks. You can also fundraise for money on your own social media page. Check on websites that support autism awareness efforts, like National Autism Association, to see if they have any events listed.
Along with attending these events, head to places with inclusivity to show your support. For example, Sesame Place in Langhorne, Pennsylvania, became a certified autism center in 2018. In fact, at least 80% of employees are trained in sensory awareness, social skills and program development. When you interact with others at the park, you can better understand how to communicate with those who have autism more effectively.
Give a Speech at Your Local Middle or High School
Younger kids need to understand how Autism impacts people. Sometimes being unaware of the kid’s differences can lead to bullying. So, research the topic and create presentations to give to schools. You can google general information or check out books from the library. There are also public resources like Asperger/Autism Network that provide information.
During your speech, take questions and answer them the best you can. Students will retain the information better if it’s something they’re interested in learning. If you’re a shy public speaker, get teachers or principals involved.
Donate Therapy Equipment
If you can’t give your time or money, consider donating items. Therapy tools, like weighted blankets, can help calm down overwhelmed children. These can create a slight pressure that can release serotonin, making people feel happier.
However, these resources aren’t always readily available to kids. Consider donating a compression vest or fidget spinners to your local school or therapy office. You can also ask your kid’s teacher for specific supplies they could use in the classroom.
Share Job Resources With People Who Have Autism
Many times jobs may be hesitant to hire those with Autism. They may see their disorder as more negative. However, with their heightened perceptual skills, they may work well in fields such as computer programming. So, share any opening you find with those you know who have autism. You can also make these updates on your social media pages.
Here are a few more jobs people with autism may excel at:
- Math and science roles
- Manufacturing and fabrication
- Technical Writer
- Mechanic
- Pet Groomer
Wear Blue
This is a simple way to show your support for those with autism. Blue is a symbol of the Autism Speaks theme color. They have a “Light it Up Blue” campaign that asks people to wear blue to spread awareness.
There are also blue-themes fundraisers and promotional events. Have your kid wear blue jeans or a blue t-shirt to school to show their support. It is an excellent way to celebrate the day without spending money. Plus, it opens up an honest dialogue on the subject. Encourage your kids to ask questions, and if you don’t know the answer do some research.
Learn About Sensory Tools for Autism
Those with autism are stimulated by senses, like sounds and colors. To better understand what children enjoy playing with, research specific toys. You can even buy a few to allow your kids to experiment with.
This is a fun way for them to experience the benefits these toys can provide. It may also encourage them to use the items more often. This then normalizes these toys and makes people with autism feel more comfortable. Look for ones like sensory mats or fidget spinners.
What You Can Do for Autism Awareness Month
Autism Awareness month is in April and is critical to spreading positive and accurate information. It encourages people to show their support for their community. Follow these simple ways to get involved today.
