Wearing Blue And Honoring You - World Autism Awareness Month
Wearing Blue And Honoring You - World Autism Awareness Day
Today is World Autism Day. What does that mean? World Autism Day is one day each year to raise awareness for autism and to the rise of autism. In 2007, The United Nations designated April 2 to be World Autism Day.
According to an organization called Autism Speaks, international communities around the world light up buildings, landmarks, and homes in blue and people around the world, wear something blue to show their love and support for people with autism. Throughout April is World Autism Awareness Month and many communities hold autism-friendly and educational activities to increase understanding and acceptance of people with autism and provide events which are kinder and more inclusive, so that all children may be a part of them.
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is typically suspected withing the first three of life, but it may be detected later. Most cases appear to be with boys, but girls can also have ASD. Autism Spectrum Disorder is specifically a wide range or “spectrum” of symptoms which may result in many disabilities. There is no known cause. Depending on the severity of the symptoms, some children may be characterized as low or high functioning. Medication may be given to some children. However, there is no single countermeasure to overcome autism. More and more mothers are looking for a more natural approach instead of medicating their children young and throughout their lives.
Here are some indications of ASD:
Often isolate themselves.
Do not express emotion, or interest in a variety of things.
Have deficits in language and non-verbal communication skills.
Throw tantrums or have outbursts when their routines are disturbed.
Lack of startled response to sudden loud noises, or diminished response to pain.
Appearing 'lost', as if in their own world.
Many children with autism also have below-normal intelligence (IQ below 70).
A mother from Australia, Christy, who interviewed for my book about childbirth around the world, openly discussed with me that her first son, Ethan, was diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder.
Christy and her son, Ethan, in Australia. Photo by Kristen Nicole Photography
”Our son could not communicate for the first few years of life. He had minimal eye contact and extreme meltdowns. We reached out to the professionals for help because we were not coping,” says Christy. “Early intervention is so important for these beautifully gifted humans.”
Do you know anyone with autistic children? Wear blue today to honor them. I am wearing my blue. Are you?
Join my list to learn more about autism for World Autism Awareness Month, as well as, become informed of other themes this month such as National Infertility Awareness Week.
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