This month, April, is Autism Awareness Month. Did you know that?
Every day, I work with children. As they carry out the tasks and activities in our intervention sessions, I notice traits in some of them that are listed in the symptoms of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).
There’s Jay who gets very upset if I change the schedule for therapy, even just slightly. Don has to sit in the same seat every time, and keeps up a conversation whether you respond or not. Then I have Ray who speaks in a no-inflection monotone, through almost-clenched teeth.
Do you know someone who is autistic?
They usually have difficulties in social interaction, verbal and nonverbal communication and repetitive behaviors.
Over two million people in the United States are autistic. On March 27, 2014, the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announced that they classify around 1 in 68 American children as on the autism spectrum–a 30% increase since 2008.
Do you find that alarming?
The medical field tells us that there is no single cause for autism. They say that perhaps, heredity, genetics and medical problems may play a part in its occurrence. But all those millions of people who suffer with autism aren’t related. Neither do they all have medical problems.
Are we missing something here?
There must be a common factor, mustn’t there?
Here’s one man’s take on this bludgeoning problem.
I have a friend who runs an Autism charity in the UK. She started it because her son is autistic. She works tirelessly to bring autism into public view and to find ways to support families. From what I can see diet plays a role and her sons behaviour is so much better with his dietary changes. I am also working with a young man who is writing a book. I think it is a horrible label and each and every person is unique and deserves to be considered for who they are. I know it is hard work for the parents of autistic children, but I am sure together there must be a way. For me it starts with feeding the body and soul what it needs not the rubbish that is out there.
Yes, Jacqui, it’s a shame the way these children and ostracized and often thrown on the garbage heap of humanity. Many autistic children turn out to be uniquely talented and creative. I once heard the saying, “You are what you eat.” Like you, I believe nutrition has quite a bit to do with children’s health and learning.
Oh my! I never thought that medical issues could cause Autism!
Thanks for sharing
You are welcome, Amaia. Spread the news!