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Autism Awareness Month is observed in April each year in several countries, including the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom. The month-long observance is intended to raise awareness about autism and promote acceptance and inclusion of people with autism spectrum disorders (ASD).

The history of Autism Awareness Month dates back to the 1970s when autism was first recognized as a distinct disorder. In 1970, the National Society for Autistic Children (later renamed Autism Society of America) launched a nationwide campaign to raise awareness about autism. This campaign led to the first National Autism Awareness Month, which was celebrated in April 1972.

Over the years, Autism Awareness Month has grown in scope and significance, with various organizations and advocacy groups organizing events and activities to educate the public about autism. The goal of these efforts is to increase public understanding of autism, promote acceptance and inclusion of people with ASD, and support research efforts to better understand the causes and treatments of autism.

In recent years, some organizations have moved away from the term “Autism Awareness” and instead use “Autism Acceptance” or “Autism Appreciation” to reflect a shift in focus from simply raising awareness to promoting more meaningful engagement and understanding of people with autism.

What is Autism?

Autism, also known as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects communication, social interaction, and behavior. Autism is called a “spectrum” disorder because the symptoms and severity can vary widely from person to person.

Some common characteristics of autism may include:

• Difficulty with social interaction and communication, such as difficulty making eye contact, understanding social cues, and making and keeping friends
• Restricted or repetitive behaviors or interests, such as having a strong preference for routine, engaging in repetitive movements or behaviors, or being preoccupied with specific topics or objects
• Sensory sensitivities, such as being hypersensitive to certain textures, sounds, or smells

Autism is typically diagnosed in early childhood, although some people may not receive a diagnosis until later in life. There is no known cure for autism, but early intervention and therapy can help improve communication, social skills, and behavior. It is important to note that people with autism have unique strengths and abilities, and with appropriate support, can lead fulfilling and meaningful lives.

What are the symptoms of Autism?

Autism, also known as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects communication, social interaction, and behavior. The symptoms and severity of autism can vary widely from person to person, but here are some common signs and symptoms:

• Social communication difficulties: People with autism may struggle to understand and use social cues, such as eye contact, facial expressions, and tone of voice. They may have difficulty initiating and maintaining conversations, and may prefer to be alone or have difficulty making friends.
• Restricted and repetitive behaviors: People with autism may engage in repetitive behaviors, such as hand flapping, rocking back and forth, or lining up objects. They may have narrow and intense interests, and may become upset or anxious if their routine or environment is disrupted.
• Sensory sensitivities: People with autism may be hypersensitive or hyposensitive to certain sensory stimuli, such as sounds, textures, or lights. They may become overwhelmed by loud noises or bright lights, or seek out certain textures or sensations.

These symptoms typically appear in early childhood, and may be apparent by age 2-3. However, some people may not receive a diagnosis until later in life.

It’s important to note that not all people with autism will exhibit all of these symptoms, and the severity of symptoms can vary widely. A professional diagnosis by a qualified healthcare provider is the best way to determine if someone has autism.

What causes Autism?

The exact cause of autism is not fully understood, but researchers believe that it is likely due to a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Here are some of the current theories:

• Genetic factors: Autism is known to run in families, and there are many genes that have been linked to the development of autism. However, no single gene has been found to cause autism, and it is likely that multiple genes are involved.
• Environmental factors: Some studies suggest that environmental factors, such as prenatal exposure to certain chemicals or toxins, may increase the risk of developing autism. However, more research is needed to understand the role of environmental factors in the development of autism.
• Brain development: Researchers have found that certain areas of the brain are different in people with autism compared to those without autism. It is believed that these differences may affect how the brain processes information and contributes to the symptoms of autism.

It’s important to note that vaccines do not cause autism. The original study that suggested a link between vaccines and autism has been discredited and debunked by numerous studies.

While there is no known cure for autism, early intervention and therapy can help improve communication, social skills, and behavior. Research into the causes and treatments of autism is ongoing.

When is World Autism Day?

World Autism Awareness Day is observed every year on April 2nd. This day is recognized by the United Nations General Assembly to raise awareness about autism and promote acceptance and inclusion of people with autism spectrum disorders (ASD).

The history of World Autism Awareness Day dates back to 2007 when the United Nations General Assembly declared April 2nd as World Autism Awareness Day. This was done to highlight the urgent need for action to address the growing public health crisis of autism.

Since then, World Autism Awareness Day has been observed around the world with various events and activities aimed at promoting autism awareness, education, and inclusion. The day provides an opportunity for individuals and organizations to come together to raise awareness about autism, advocate for the rights of people with ASD, and support research efforts to better understand the causes and treatments of autism.

In 2014, the United Nations launched the “Light It Up Blue” campaign, which encourages individuals and organizations to light up buildings and landmarks in blue to raise awareness about autism. This campaign has become a symbol of support for people with autism and their families.

Overall, World Autism Awareness Day serves as an important reminder that autism is a global health issue that requires ongoing attention and action.

How we can deserve Autism Awareness Month?

There are many ways to support autism awareness month and promote acceptance and inclusion of people with autism spectrum disorders (ASD). Here are some ideas:

1. Learn more about autism: Educating yourself about autism is one of the best ways to support autism awareness. You can read books, watch documentaries, attend webinars or workshops, and explore online resources to learn more about autism and its impact on individuals and families.
2. Promote acceptance and inclusion: Encourage others to treat people with autism with kindness, respect, and empathy. Promote inclusive practices in your workplace, school, or community to ensure that people with autism feel valued and included.
3. Support autism research: Donate to autism research organizations or participate in autism research studies to support efforts to better understand the causes and treatments of autism.
4. Volunteer: Volunteer your time and skills to organizations that support people with autism and their families. This can include working with individuals with autism, assisting with events or fundraising, or helping to promote awareness and acceptance in your community.
5. Spread awareness: Use social media or other platforms to share information about autism and raise awareness. You can also participate in events or initiatives that aim to promote autism awareness, such as the “Light It Up Blue” campaign on World Autism Awareness Day.

Overall, supporting autism awareness month is about promoting understanding, acceptance, and inclusion of people with autism. By taking action to support autism awareness, we can help to create a more inclusive and supportive world for individuals with autism and their families.

Some facts and figures about Autism in the United States

Here are some statistics about autism in the United States:

1. Prevalence: According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about 1 in 54 children in the United States has been diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
2. Gender: Boys are four times more likely to be diagnosed with autism than girls.
3. Age of diagnosis: The average age of diagnosis for autism is around 4 years old, although some children are diagnosed as early as 2 years old.
4. Lifetime cost: The lifetime cost of caring for an individual with autism can be over $2 million, primarily due to medical care and lost productivity.
5. Employment: Only 14% of adults with autism hold a paying job in the community.
6. Education: About 63% of children with autism have been identified as having an intellectual disability, and only 42% of adults with autism have attended college or technical school.
7. Co-occurring conditions: About 70% of individuals with autism have at least one co-occurring condition, such as anxiety, ADHD, or epilepsy.

It’s important to note that these statistics are based on estimates and may not capture the full extent of autism prevalence or impact. Nevertheless, they highlight the significant impact that autism has on individuals, families, and society.

Can a printable calendar be useful for those close to a person with autism?

Yes, using a printable calendar for autism can be a useful tool for individuals with autism and their families or caregivers. A calendar can help to provide structure and routine, which can be important for individuals with autism who may struggle with transitions or changes in routine.

Some ways a printable calendar can be useful for individuals with autism include:

1. Visual support: Many individuals with autism benefit from visual support, and a calendar can provide a visual representation of their daily routine and schedule.
2. Predictability: Knowing what to expect can help reduce anxiety and stress for individuals with autism. A calendar can help them anticipate upcoming events or changes in routine.
3. Skill building: A calendar can be used to teach important skills such as time management, organization, and planning.
4. Communication: For non-verbal individuals with autism, a calendar can be used as a communication tool to indicate upcoming events or activities.
5. Independence: Using a calendar can help individuals with autism to become more independent and take ownership of their daily routine and schedule.

There are many printable calendar templates available online that can be customized to meet the specific needs of individuals with autism. Overall, using a printable calendar can be a helpful tool for individuals with autism and their families or caregivers to provide structure, routine, and support.

Table with the next Autism Awareness Month dates

Table with the next dates of start of the Autism Awareness Month and the day of the week of each year.

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