World Autism Awareness Day takes place every year on the 2nd of April and is a designated United Nations Day of Observance.
On December 18th 2007, The United Nations General Assembly unanimously declared April 2nd as World Autism Awareness Day, to highlight the need to help improve the quality of life of those with Autism so that they can lead full and meaningful lives as an integral part of society.
This year marks the 18th year.
Read more about World Autism Awareness Day here or see the UN website – https://www.un.org/en/observances/autism-day
This World Autism Awareness Day the Irish Society for Autism is focusing on the provision of accurate information – information that is relevant and supportive.
Over the past number of years, the Society has seen the demand for information significantly increase. We recognise and understand that in the current digital age, people are subject to an abundance of information that is instantly available. A lot of helpful information can be found however it can be difficult to distinguish opinion from fact.
Information should be relevant to an individual’s circumstances and their own family.
We are aware that the needs of autistic people, and their families and carers continuously change over the course of a person’s life. It is important to have reliable and accurate information to make the best decisions for one’s own situation
We encourage each person seeking information or advice to conduct their own research and investigate all applicable alternatives for their own situation. There are many organisations and websites which provide information including national and local groups and state departments.
What can you do to celebrate World Autism Awareness Day?
- Speak to the Autistic people in your life, find out how they would like to mark the day.
- Promote understanding and acceptance of Autism within your friend and family circles.
- Learn more by reading a book or watching a video relating to Autism or Autistic people’s experiences.
- If the Autistic person in your life has a particular interest/hobby, why not organise a family day out/activity centred around that.
- Businesses and Organisations – learn more about how you can support people with Autism by getting in touch with us.
- Remember that every Autistic person is different, every person has their strengths and challenges, treat each person with respect and as an individual.
What can your School do to celebrate World Autism Awareness Day?
- Talk to your Autistic pupils, ask how they feel the school can promote more understanding and acceptance.
- Consider holding a school-wide awareness day and share some resources with your pupils.
- Contact the Irish Society for Autism to request some information resources for your school.
- Twinkl, the NCSE, Outside the Box and the Middletown Centre for Autism also have numerous resources available which may help.
- The Amazing Things Happen video may be helpful
