In school this week children in Key Stage 2 had a special assembly about raising awareness and knowledge of autism. Autism is a life-long condition that is a hidden difference, so it is not possible to see that someone has autism. Autistic people are just as unique as those without the condition. You may sometimes notice behavior differences with autistic children: flapping their hands when excited or anxious, spinning around, high reaction to sensory things such as smell, noise and touch. You may notice they pay particular attention to detail, wanting to follow a set pattern of activities. You may even notice particular strengths; remembering facts in great detail. Anxiety is often quite extreme for children with autism.
This can lead to behaviours that are often seen as socially unacceptable, maybe throwing things or hitting out when agitated, chewing things, spinning. They may come across as very rude as they are very literal and will say what they think. Being a parent of a child with autism can be very challenging as the try to manage the differences their child has, especially as many people can show a lack of awareness of the challenges they are dealing with and think their child is just ‘naughty’.
What parents would like to say to others about living with autism:
- Not all autism is the same. It is a spectrum. Some children may have learning needs others are very intelligent.
- Autistic children can have a talents and strengths.
- Try to understand that the environment affects children with autism a lot. Some behaviours are signs of anxiety.
- Show some empathy. If my child has some behavior differences don’t judge me as a parent.
- My autistic child needs love too.
- As parents we may be terrified at times, really tired but we have to be brave. We are learning all the time too.
We raised a grand total of £320.63 today towards raising awareness. A huge thank you for your generosity.
The Easter Egg draw was conducted and the winning ticket number was 112: Elaine in year 3.