WELLNESS | Key Concepts for National Autism Awareness Month
Beginning in the 1970s, the Autism Society has been celebrating National Autism Awareness Month. Every April marks an opportunity to educate others about matters within the autism community, and a chance to participate in events related to acceptance and awareness. However, sometimes it can be difficult to know exactly where to look for the most pertinent information, as well as ways to get involved. For a perfect starting point, check out these key concepts, new to many people, disseminated by the group at Rethinking Autism:
This is the basic idea that atypical neurological wiring (an aspect of autism) is part of a normal spectrum of human difference. Advocates of neurodiversity assert that autism needs to be tolerated and respected just like any other human difference such as gender, race, or sexual preference. For more information click here.
Inclusive education is the notion that every student must be part of their school’s community, regardless of difference in any area. According to the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), all schools have the responsibility to educate students with disabilities in a general education classroom. For more information click here.
Restraints and Seclusion:
There are still many cases of individuals with autism being both restrained and secluded unnecessarily. This is extremely dangerous for these individuals and has even led to death on several occasions. The most horrifying part is that this treatment is legal in some instances. Rethinking Autism advocates for these abusive activities to be made illegal, and the adoption of more positive behavior supports. For more information click here.
1.) Show your support for individuals with autism by wearing the Autism Awareness Puzzle Ribbon, the most recognized symbol of autism community. For more information on the Puzzle Ribbon click here.
2.) Get in touch with your state and federal representatives and ask them to “Vote 4 Autism.” For more information on this legislation click here.
Those still interested in Autism and its history should check out Mira Rothenberg’s book, The Children of Raquette Lake: One Summer That Helped Change the Course of Treatment for Autism.
Puzzle Ribbon image by Ioannes.baptista (Own workhttp://www.aochiworld.com/) [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons