Today is April 2, 2020 making it the thirteenth annual World Autism Awareness Day. Autism Awareness is something that I hold near and dear to my heart as a Speech Language Pathologist. I have had the pleasure and privilege of working with children on the spectrum. Each and every one of them teaching me a valuable lesson, not only a clinician but as a human being. My passion for working with children on the spectrum started in college when I joined my sorority Alpha Xi Delta. Alpha Xi Delta’s philanthropy is Autism Speaks. While in college I was able to attend multiple philanthropy events that allowed me to work closely with children on the spectrum. One in particular event was Surfer’s with Autism, that really drove my passion for what I do. I worked side by side with families that day giving children the chance to come to the beach and try and surf. Working through different challenges that day, some kids were able to hop right in the water, while others didn’t even want to let their feet touch the sand. I was able to help parents give their children the opportunity to try something new. This can be scary not only for the children but also for the parents, but I was able to be there and support them through this challenging time.
Through my years in school and as a therapist I have realized that working with children with Autism is something I am passionate about. I completed my thesis project in graduate school on the impact Autism Movement Therapy has on a child’s speech and language skills. I recently became a Certified Autism Specialist, to further my knowledge on ways to help all of my students and clients. These children may be challenging and frustrating but more importantly they are SPECIAL. They have taught me patience and kindness and they have taught me a variety of different ways to view the world. These children are funny, caring, and some of the smartest children you will ever meet. They have taught me how important it is too individualize every child’s therapy services because everyone’s brain works in a different way.
Today on World Autism Awareness Day we should celebrate the amazing and unique strengths of individuals with Autism. Tony Attwood said, “Autism Spectrum is a different way of learning NOT dysfunctional way of learning.” The symbol for Autism Awareness is the puzzle piece. The puzzle piece represents the mystery and complexity of Autism. The different colors (red, yellow, and blue,) represent the diversity of the families and people living with Autism.
I challenge everyone today to put on your blue clothing and work on your favorite puzzle. Maybe the key to solving a difficult puzzle is to look at if from a different approach. I have also attached a puzzle piece coloring sheet that you can have your children color for Autism Awareness Month. Feel Free to share your puzzle pieces once they are complete! Happy World Autism Awareness Day!
