03/29/2019
We are only a few days away from Autism awareness month when individuals will be displaying Autism symbols, logos, or multicolored prisms to symbolize and spread awareness. Although I am a little early, I decided to present some food for thought.
Autism awareness, what does this really mean?
Colors, puzzle pieces, and logos are prevalent during the month of April. People equate these symbols to the Autism spectrum. However, being aware that Autism exists and comprehending what the autism spectrum is composed of, the challenges faced by families, children and adults who live with Autism 12 months out of the year is a totally different and pressing issue.
For these individuals, autism awareness does not end when April comes to a close and all the symbols and Autism awareness programs that are plentiful during April disappear and society at large goes on with their lives as autism awareness becomes a distant memory in their minds.
For individuals living with Autism and those who care for them and love them, Autism does not end in May. They are extremely aware that Autism exists because of the challenges connected with the Autism spectrum are enmeshed with their daily lives. It is a lifestyle that really defines how you live. Individuals who live with or have loved ones on the spectrum have gained awareness through experience. Their perspective of life experience is quite different then equating a logo with Autism and leaving it at that.
Awareness is resultant from knowledge.
Knowledge can only occur through interaction with individuals and families on the spectrum and educating the public at large. People tend to fear the unknown due to lack of understanding.
Through education and interactions fear is diminished and a level of acceptance is created.
Let's not only spread awareness, but help create a society where Autism colors and logos are equated with action.
Support and seek to understand the challenges of those on the spectrum by spending time with them. If you are a family member, take their child with you at times to give parents a break and make the children feel accepted not rejected. By spending time with them, you will realize just how amazing their gifts are and how sweet and loving their spirit is.
Encourage your own children to include kids on the spectrum in their play. YES, even if your child must adapt their play to include a special needs child. In doing so, you are teaching your neurotypical child a life long lesson, respect for others and their differences. Offer to babysit so parents can spend much needed one on one time, study for exams (if in school), or merely allow a sleep deprived parent to take a much needed nap. Include these individuals in your celebrations, encourage and teach your children inclusion and acceptance because education and beliefs start at home. These are just mere examples of focusing on not only focusing on awareness, but acceptance and education.
Individuals on the spectrum and their families don't want your pity, they want your understanding and acceptance. They are no different from you or I. They wish to live a fulfilling life just like anyone else.
The opportunities to increase understanding regarding the Autism spectrum is only limited by your imagination.
Knowing that something exists is not quite the same as fully supporting the issue.
The colors and symbols will become a distant memory on May first for those who do not have loved ones or live with Autism. For those families like mine, Autism is something we live with 365 days a year.
May we all grow, interact, respect, and gain a better understanding and appreciation of one another this year.
What will you do to help someone or their family on the spectrum this year?
With that said, I wish you all a
happy AUTISM ACCEPTANCE YEAR♡
Feel free to share♡ ;)
