World Autism Awareness Day is on Tuesday, April 2, and Hands theFamilyHelpNetwork.ca is ready to celebrate.
Everyone is welcome to visit a Hands site to enjoy some games, activities, and refreshments. "There will also be resources available to help support families on their autism journey," says a news release.
Celebrations run from 3:30 – 6:30 p.m. at 820 Lakeshore Drive
"We are excited to open our doors for everyone to celebrate World Autism Awareness Day with us,” said Paula Barnes, Manager of Autism Services at Hands. “Guests can look forward to lots of fun while they can experience our facilities and speak to our expert team to learn more about Autism, the services we provide at Hands, and the way we approach working with families as individuals.”
Hands will also be sharing facts related to Autism Awareness on their Autism Facebook page over April in recognition of World Autism Awareness.
Autism, or autism spectrum disorder (ASD), is a neurodevelopmental disability characterized by challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviors, speech and nonverbal communication. About 1 in every 50 Canadian children and adolescents has been diagnosed with autism, according to the Public Health Agency of Canada.
“Awareness is a step that helps to start conversations and open minds. Awareness brings acceptance, equity, access, and empowerment,” said Barnes. “People with Autism are individuals with their own unique gifts and challenges, needs and wants, strengths and weaknesses. It is important that we are aware of and celebrate everyone's individuality, so we can accept people for who they are and help them grow.
