Tomorrow, April 2, 2012, is the fifth annual World Autism Awareness Day. This is a day to raise awareness about autism, so be sure to wear blue to show your support!
Did you know that the CDC updated it's estimate of autism prevalence in the United States to 1 in 88 children? This is more children than AIDS, cancer, cerebral palsy, cystic fibrosis, muscular dystrophy, or Down syndrome combined. (information from autismspeaks.org)
What is autism and autism spectrum disorder? The Autism Speaks website says: "These disorders are characterized, in varying degrees, by difficulties in social interaction, verbal and nonverbal communication and repetitive behaviors." There are many disorders that fall in the autism spectrum. Autism spectrum disorder "can be associated with intellectual disability, difficulties in motor coordination and attention and physical health issues such as sleep and gastrointestinal disturbances."
If you want to learn more about autism and autism spectrum disorders, see how you can donate your time or money to this awesome cause, or find some great family services, go to the Autism Speaks website and take a look around.
Latest posts by Gena (see all)
- Age Four: The Land of Make Believe - May 18, 2013
- Dallas Ladies, Join the Old Navy Pretty Muddy Run! - May 17, 2013
- Wordless Wednesday: Alpacas! - May 15, 2013
Thanks for this info, I have several students with autism and will definitely wear blue tomorrow.
Thanks for posting this–I have an austic nephew and am proudly lighting it up for BLUE today