Autism Awareness Day Be Autism Friendly

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Articles World Autism Awareness Day 1 Autism friendly 2 Autism Sunday 10 Autistic Pride Day 12 Light It Up Blue 13 References Article Sources and Contributors 14 Image Sources, Licenses and Contributors 15 Article Licenses License 16 World Autism Awareness Day 1 World Autism Awareness Day

World Autism Awareness Day has been held every year since 9 September 1989. It was designated by the United Nations General Assembly resolution "62/139. World Autism Awareness Day," adopted on 18 December 2007, proposed by Representatives of the State Qatar, and supported by all member states.[1][2][][]

The World Autism Awareness Day (WAAD) Resolution had four main components: • the establishment of 2 April as WAAD • participation of UN organizations, member states, NGOs and all private & public organizations in WAAD • raise awareness of Autism on all levels in society • Secretary-General of UN should deliver this message to member states and all other UN organs.[] To that end, there is currently a web site "World Autism Awareness Day" that provides materials and suggestions on how to participate in WAAD as well as a list of current activities different countries and organizations are conducting to celebrate WAAD.[3]

References Autism friendly 2 Autism friendly

Autism friendly means being aware of social engagement and environmental factors affecting people on the autism spectrum, with modifications to communication methods and physical space to better suit individual's unique and special needs.

The autism awareness ribbon.

Overview

Individuals on the autism spectrum take in information from their five senses as do neurotypical people. The difference is they are not able to process it as quickly and can become overwhelmed by the amount of information that they are receiving and withdraw as a coping mechanism.[1] They may experience difficulty in public settings due to inhibited communication, social interaction or flexibility of thought development. Knowing about these differences and how to react effectively helps to create a more inclusive society. It also better suits the needs of the growing number of individuals with autism, Asperger syndrome, or other disorders on the autism spectrum.[2]

Being autism friendly means being understanding and flexible in "Opening a window to the autistic brain." A child interpersonal conversation, public programs and public settings. In the with autism (three years old) pointing to the fish end, working together makes our experiences together better for in an aquarium. everyone. For example, a person might think that if someone is being rude if they will not look them in the eyes - or doesn't understand cliches like "it's a piece of cake", when in fact there may be a reason for this. Depending upon the individual's level of functioning, a person who hears "it's a piece of cake" may take that literally and not understand that what is really meant is "it will be easy".[2] For someone on the autism spectrum, being in an autism friendly environment means they will be have a manageable degree of sensory stimuli, which will make them calmer, better able to process the sensory stimulation they receive, and better able to relate to others.[3] Autism friendly 3

Communication and social interaction Organizations interested in spreading awareness about autism and how to be autism friendly, such as the The Autism Directory, have created training programs for communities to illustrate how people with autism may communicate or interact differently than neurotypical people, or people without autism. There are also suggestions for how to modify one's reaction to improve communication.[2] Some training examples are:[2] • When one finds out that someone may not be able to look them in their eyes, one should realize that they are not trying to be rude, and it is uncomfortable for them to do so. • A person may have difficulty understanding clichés or expressions and interpret a phrase literally. By speaking directly and factually, like saying "It's easy" as compared to "It's a piece of cake", one is more likely to understand the line. • Body language, facial expressions, gestures, and turning away from someone may be cues that are missed by an autistic person. This is another opportunity to be direct and factual, realizing that your body language or social cues may not be picked up. • The person may have limited vocabulary or speech perception. Patience is helpful here. Allow time for the person to comprehend what was said. Ask how you can help. If they use sign language or a symbol set to communicate, adapt as you are able. Other pointers are: avoid making loud sounds; do not surprise them, let them know your plans; limit or avoid vigorous activities; and talk or engage in activities that they care about.[2][4][5]

Environment Some people with autism may be hypersensitive to changes in sight, touch, smell, taste and sound; The sensory stimulus could be very distracting or they could result in pain or anxiety. There are other people who are hyposensitive and may not feel extreme changes in temperature or pain. Each of these has implications for making an autism friendly environment.[6]

Social factors There are several factors in creating a supportive environment. One of them is adherence to a standard routine and structure. Since change of routine can be quite anxiety producing for many autistic people, a structured, predictable routine makes for calmer and happier transitions during the day. Another important factor is creating a low arousal space. Environments with the least amount of disruption will help autistic people remain calm. It's important to speak in quiet, non-disruptive tones and to utilize a physical space that has a low level of disruption. Having a positive, empathetic attitude and ensuring consistent habits in work, school and recreational activities also help to minimize anxiety and distress and help an autistic person succeed. This is the SPELL approach which stand for Structure - Positive - Empathy - Low arousal - Links.[4][7] Social stories can be used to communicate ways in which an autistic person can prepare themselves for social interaction.[8] Autism friendly 4

Physical space

There are several ways that the physical space can be designed and organized to be autism friendly. It is important for rooms to be decorated with serenity in mind, like painting the walls with calming colors. Thick carpeting and double-paned glass help to minimize distracting noise. Materials within the rooms may be organized, grouped and labeled with words or symbols to make items easier to locate.[9] Newport Ty Nant uses modern SMART technology, autism-friendly design features and Topics an autism-specific model of care to allow tenants to have more control over their lives.

Daily life Autism friendliness can have a significant impact on an individual's interpersonal life and work life, benefited by consistency across all areas of one's life.[4]

Vacations Due to the break of routine with family vacations, many families may avoid taking vacations. Steps can be taken to help make for a successful family vacation. One is sharing information like pictures or internet web pages. There are organizations that will make accommodations, if requested, to better manage uncertainty, crowds, noise disruption. This includes theme parks who allow people with autism to skip long lines and airlines or airports that may allow for a dry-run prior to the trip. Another tip is to prepare prior to the trip so that there is a plan for managing boredom.[5]

Entertainment

Theatre In the United States, the Theatre Development Fund (TDF) created a program in 2011 to "make theatre accessible to children and adults on the autism spectrum". Called the Autism Theatre Initiative, it's part of their Accessibility Programs, and was done in conjunction with Autism Speaks, Disney and experts who reviewed the performance for areas of modification. Adjustments that have been name for the initiative include: quiet areas in theatre lobby, performance changes that reduced strobe light use and noise, and areas where people can go perform an activity if they leave the theatre. Social stories, which explain what the experience will be like (such as loud noises, needing a break and moving through a crowd), were made available prior to the performance. These performances [10] included Lion King and Mary Poppins.[11][12][13][14][15]

Movie cinema Going to a movie theater can be an overwhelming experience for someone on the autism spectrum. Crowding as people queue up to buy tickets. Loud movie volume. Dark theater lighting. All of these are sensory overload triggers that have kept some autistic people from ever seeing a movie at the cinema. Some movie theaters are becoming more autism friendly: The lighting is adjusted so it's not so dark, the volume is reduced and queues are managed to prevent crowding. Odeon Cinemas in London has implemented such "sensory friendly" nights.[16] On September 16, 2012, as one example, the Odeon Cinemas will screen Brave, a Disney animated movie, at more than 80 United Kingdom and Ireland cinemas for people desiring a sensory friendly movie going experience.[17] In the United States there are also "sensory friendly" movie-going experiences to be had through collaboration with the Autism Society of America. Monthly, AMC Theatres (AMC) will provide nights when people on the autism Autism friendly 5

spectrum and their families may experience an autism friendly movie night. The program is also intended for people with other disabilities whose movie going experience will also be improved in such a setting.[18][19]

Education Providing the best outcomes for a child on the autism spectrum may be difficult, complicated by each child's unique way of managing communication and interaction with others, associated disorders that make each child's situation unique, and emerging understandings of neurodiversity. Teacher effectiveness can be optimized based upon their awareness of the differences along the autism spectrum, acceptance that each child is unique, engagement of the child in social and educational activities and employment of teaching methods that are found to be helpful with people with developmental disability.[20] Teachers play a key role in the success of a student on the autism spectrum by helping them to understand directions, organize tasks and support their achievements. One example is organizing and grouping materials together for activities in specific ways.[21] Schools dedicated to being autism friendly, like Pathlight School in Singapore, designed their campus to offer students "dignity" in an autism-friendly environment. There the campus was architecturally designed, landscaped and the interior created with a simple color scheme. All of this helps to avoid triggering sensory overload. There is a low teacher to student ratio, a focus on nurturing, and a comprehensive life-skills training and education program.[22]

Empathizing-systemizing theory Empathizing-systemizing theory with video technology can be used to present information in an autism friendly way that promotes understanding. For instance, computer applications or DVDs of actors making facial expressions to inform how body language provides clues about how someone might be feeling. Or, in the case of The Transporters, interesting items like trains are used to wear faces, drawing in the viewer into the faces.[23]

Justice and law Being met with an individual in a dark uniform can be intimidating to a person with autism, particularly when they have been a crime victim or are injured. Police and emergency responders may become frustrated, not knowing a person that they're talking to is autistic. The responders may not be communicating in a way that will create understanding and make the situation less stressful. A program has been launched in Glasgow, Scotland to enter information into a database about autistic people so that responding police and emergency personnel are notified when they will be meeting an autistic person and may then communicate in a way that increases understanding and makes the situation less stressful.[24][25] Autism Alert Cards, for example, are available for autistic people in Scottish Borders and Lothian Scotland so that police and emergency personnel will recognize autistic individuals and respond appropriately. The cards, which encourage autism friendly interaction, have a couple of key points about interacting with people with autism.[25]

Life events "Neurotypical" people and those on the autism spectrum may have very different ways of communicating their feeling about life events, including: • Coping with illness, injury and recuperation • Dealing with dying and death • Incorporating rituals and traditions for managing life events • Managing emotions • Learning from life events[26] Just because people may process and communicate their feelings differently, though, doesn't mean it's right or wrong. It is best to be honest and literal to help a person with autism to manage major life events. Providing Autism friendly 6

information, and allowing them time to process it, are other important factors. Lastly, communication tools will also help to process and manage the event.[27] People on the autism spectrum can help themselves manage situations by being aware of what they're feeling and thinking — and expressing their thoughts to important people in their life. Other tools are being aware of when they need help and asking for it — and thanking people when they've received assistance or a gift.[28]

Technology Educational technological applications for people with autism include:

Digital talking books Digital talking books are used to assist people with disabilities, commonly people who are blind, and also for people with autism. One such use is for taped church programs.[29]

Mobile applications • One of the providers of autism-friendly applications is iPad, which was an interface between the child and the storyteller on a video. By repeating what the narrator says, the children hear themselves tell the story, like Tom the Talking Cat. Reading the stories aloud helps children improve their language and communication skills, as well as improving fine motor skills, social skills and sensory skills.[30] • Apple iPod applications can be used by people on the autism spectrum to manage tasks at work. It can manage a checklist of tasks and reminder prompts. This helps a person be more calm and effective and rely less on managers or job coaches to prompt for needed work. Tony Gentry, who led research on the applicatin at Virginia Commonwealth University said: "This is an exciting time for anyone in the fields of education, physical rehabilitation, and vocational support, where we are seeing a long-awaited merging of consumer products and assistive technologies for all."[31]

Types of technology • Emotion Markup Language is a general-purpose emotion annotation and representation language, which should be usable in a large variety of technological contexts where emotions need to be represented. Emotion-oriented computing (or "affective computing") is gaining importance as interactive technological systems become more sophisticated. For people on the autism spectrum, it can be used to make the emotional intent of content explicit. This would enable people with learning disabilities (such as Asperger's Syndrome) to realise the emotional context of the content.

Training for businesses As the prevalence of autism increases, it becomes increasingly important to ensure that customer-facing organizations have basic tools for communicating with people on the autism spectrum. Tesco, a multinational supermarket chain, has implemented training for its employees to meet the needs of its customers who are on the autism spectrum, which is estimated to be one of every 100 people in the United Kingdom. Employees use an online training site and respond to a questionnaire to assess the extent to which they became more aware of autism spectrum disorders (ASD). Tesco is the first company to participate in an awareness program led by the Welsh Local Government Association (WLGA). The online training and questionnaire tool is intended to be used by many organizations in Wales to identify and commend businesses that are "ASD Aware".[32][33][34] Autism friendly 7

Recreational facilities

Inclusive recreation Inclusive recreation, also called Adaptive Recreation

Malibu California surf adaptive recreation CDP Images Workshop children with autism

Community involvement Organizations or programs that promote autism friendly efforts are: • Autism Awareness Campaign UK • The Autism Directory in England awards an "Autism Friendly" mark to those companies that undergo The Autism Directory's free autism awareness training. It shows that this particular company has a basic awareness of autism and acts as a good indicator to any potential autistic customers[35] • Autism Research Institute (US) • National Autistic Society (UK)

Gallery

The Autism Directory's Autism Friendly Mark Autism Sunday, The International Day of Prayer for Autism and Asperger Syndrome Autism friendly 8

References [1] Caldwell, Phoebe and Jane Horwood. (2008). Using Intensive Interaction and Sensory Integration: A Handbook for Those Who Support People With Severe Autistic Spectrum Disorder. Jessica Kingsley Publishers. p. 16. ISBN 1843106264.

[2] Autism Awareness Presentation. (http:/ / www. theautismdirectory. com/ awareness-training/ ) The Autism Directory. Retrieved September 5, 2012. [3] Caldwell, Phoebe and Jane Horwood. (2008). Using Intensive Interaction and Sensory Integration: A Handbook for Those Who Support People With Severe Autistic Spectrum Disorder. Jessica Kingsley Publishers. pp. 15-17. ISBN 1843106264. [4] Nguyen, Anh. (2006). Creating an Autism Friendly Environment. National Autistic Society. pp. 5-6. ISBN 1899280944.

[5] Six Tips for Traveling with an Autistic Child. (http:/ / time. com/ time/ specials/ packages/ completelist/ 0,29569,1893554,00. html) Time. Retrieved 7 September 2012. [6] Nguyen, Anh. (2006). Creating an Autism Friendly Environment. National Autistic Society. p. 3. ISBN 1899280944.

[7] SPELL. (http:/ / www. autism. org. uk/ SPELL) National Autistic Society, United Kingdom. Retrieved September 5, 2012.

[8] Social stories: their uses and benefits. (http:/ / www. autism. org. uk/ living-with-autism/ strategies-and-approaches/

social-stories-and-comic-strip-conversations/ social-stories-their-uses-and-benefits. aspx) The National Autistic Society. Retrieved September 8, 2012. [9] Nguyen, Anh. (2006). Creating an Autism Friendly Environment. National Autistic Society. p. 7. ISBN 1899280944.

[10] http:/ / www. atgtickets. com/ blog/ why-access-is-important/

[11] Piepenberg, Erik. (August 31, 2011). "Program Hopes to Make Broadway Friendlier to Those With Autism." (http:/ / artsbeat. blogs.

nytimes. com/ 2011/ 08/ 31/ program-hopes-to-make-broadway-friendlier-to-those-with-autism/ ) The New York Times. Retrieved September 8, 2012.

[12] Autism Theatre Initiative. (http:/ / www. tdf. org/ TDF_ServicePage. aspx?id=128) Theatre Development Fund. Retrieved September 8, 2012.

[13] Loud noises. (http:/ / www. tdf. org/ emailimages/ tap/ ati/ LNSS. pdF) Theatre Development Fund. Retrieved September 8, 2012.

[14] Needing a break. (http:/ / www. tdf. org/ emailimages/ tap/ ati/ NAB. pdf) Theatre Development Fund. Retrieved September 8, 2012.

[15] Moving through crowds. (http:/ / www. tdf. org/ emailimages/ tap/ ati/ MTC. pdf) Theatre Development Fund. Retrieved September 8, 2012.

[16] Roxby, Philippa and Sophie van Brugen. (August 12, 2011). Autism-friendly film gets people relaxed about cinema. (http:/ / www. bbc. co.

uk/ news/ health-14494676) BBC. Retrieved September 6, 2012.

[17] Autism Friendly Film Screening of Brave - at over 80 participating cinemas. (http:/ / www. dimensions-uk. org/ autismfilms/ ) Dimensions. Retrieved September 6, 2012.

[18] Sensory Friendly Films. (http:/ / www. autism-society. org/ get-involved/ events/ sensory-friendly-films/ ) Autism Society. Retrieved September 6, 2012. [19] In Partnership with the Autism Society, We Bring AMC Sensory Friendly Films to Families Affected by Autism on a Monthly Basis to Select

Communities. (http:/ / www. amctheatres. com/ programs/ sensory-friendly-films) AMC Entertainment. September 06, 2012.

[20] Carol Gray. Learners on the Autism Spectrum: Preparing Highly Qualified Educators (http:/ / books. google. com/

books?id=tv2DrZRmHVoC& pg=PA35). AAPC Publishing; 1 May 2008 [cited 17 September 2012]. ISBN 978-1-934575-07-9. p. 35–. [21] Breitenbach, Marlene. (2008). Basic Skills Checklists: Teacher-Friendly Assessment for Students with Autism or Special Needs. Future Horizons. ISBN 1932565752.

[22] A Unified Whole. (http:/ / www. autism. org. sg/ press/ 2010/ 0901-a_unified_whole-d+ a. pdf) d+a magazine. Issue 53, 2010.

[23] Eric Hollander; Alex Kolevzon; Joseph T. Coyle. Textbook of Autism Spectrum Disorders (http:/ / books. google. com/

books?id=NgEg2FqxrYYC& pg=PA45). American Psychiatric Pub; 18 October 2010 [cited 17 September 2012]. ISBN 978-1-58562-341-9. p. 45.

[24] Landmark pilot project to 'better protect' Glaswegians with autism. (http:/ / www. autism. org. uk/ news-and-events/ news-archive/ 5-may/

landmark-pilot-project-to-better-protect-glaswegians-with-autism. aspx) The National Autistic Society. Retrieved September 7, 2012.

[25] Autism Alert Card launches in Lothian and Borders. (http:/ / www. autism. org. uk/ news-and-events/ news-archive/ 1-january/

autism-alert-card-launches-in-lothian-and-borders. aspx) The National Austic Society. Retrieved September 7, 2012. [26] Fahrety, Catherine (author) and Gary B. Mesibov, PH.D. (contributor). (2008). Understanding Death and Illness and What They Teach about Life: An Interactive Guide for Individuals with Autism or Asperger's and Their Loved Ones. Future Horizons. pp. viii - xiv, xxvi. ISBN 1932565566. [27] Fahrety, Catherine (author) and Gary B Mesibov, PH.D. (contributor). (2008). Understanding Death and Illness and What They Teach about Life: An Interactive Guide for Individuals with Autism or Asperger's and Their Loved Ones. Future Horizons. p. xxviii. ISBN 1932565566. [28] Fahrety, Catherine (author) and Gary B Mesibov, PH.D. (contributor). (2008). Understanding Death and Illness and What They Teach about Life: An Interactive Guide for Individuals with Autism or Asperger's and Their Loved Ones. Future Horizons. p. xxviiii. ISBN 1932565566.

[29] Updated Talking Book Program Benefits Church Members with Disabilities. (http:/ / www. lds. org/ church/ news/ updated-talking-book-program-benefits-church-members-with-disabilities?lang=eng) The Church of Jesus Christ of the Latter Day Saints. Retrieved September 8, 2012.

[30] "iPad Apps That Help Autistic Children's Development." (http:/ / www. huffingtonpost. com/ 2010/ 08/ 18/

ipad-apps-for-autism-and-_n_686020. html) Huffington Post. November 17, 2011. Autism friendly 9

[31] Heasley, Susan. iPod May Ease Transition For Those With Autism. (http:/ / www. disabilityscoop. com/ 2012/ 09/ 06/

ipod-transition-autism/ 16398/ ) Disability Scoop. September 6, 2012. Retrieved September 6, 2012.

[32] Supermarket Giant Tesco signs up to WLGA ASD Aware Scheme. (http:/ / www. wlga. gov. uk/ english/ media-centre/

supermarket-giant-tesco-signs-up-to-wlga-asd-aware-scheme/ ) Welsh Local Government Association. September 9, 2011. Retrieved September 6, 2012.

[33] ASD Aware Certification Scheme. (http:/ / www. asdinfowales. co. uk/ ASDaware) ASD Info Wales. Retrieved September 6, 2012.

[34] Introduction to ASD. (http:/ / www. ssiacymru. org. uk/ media/ pdf/ e/ s/ introduction_to_ASD_for_e_resource_2. pdf) ASD Info Wales. Retrieved September 6, 2012.

[35] Awareness training. (http:/ / www. theautismdirectory. com/ awareness-training/ ) The Autism Directory. Retrieved September 5, 2012.

Further reading • Bishop, Beverly (author) and Craig Bishop (Illustrator). (2011). My Friend with Autism: Enhanced Edition with FREE CD of Coloring Pages! Future Horizons. ISBN 193527418X. • Beadle-Brown J., Roberts R. and Mills R. (2009). "Person-centred approaches to supporting children and adults with autism spectrum disorders." Tizard Learning Disability Review. 14:(3). pp. 18–26. It is available from the National Autistic Society (NAS) Information Centre, UK • Fahrety, Catherine (author) and Gary B. Mesibov, PH.D. (contributor). (2008). Understanding Death and Illness and What They Teach about Life: An Interactive Guide for Individuals with Autism or Asperger's and Their Loved Ones. Future Horizons. ISBN 1932565566. • Mills, R. (Winter 1999). "Q & A: SPELL." Communication. pp. 27–28. It is available from the National Autistic Society (NAS) Information Centre, UK. • Povey C. (2009). "Commentary on person-centred approaches to supporting children and adults with autism spectrum disorders." Tizard Learning Disability Review. 14:(3). pp. 27–29. It is available from the National Autistic Society (NAS) Information Centre, UK.

External links Autism Awareness presentation or training material

• Autism Awareness Training Presentation (http:/ / www. theautismdirectory. com/ awareness-training/ )

• Introduction to ASD. (http:/ / www. ssiacymru. org. uk/ media/ pdf/ e/ s/ introduction_to_ASD_for_e_resource_2. pdf) Aspergers

• List of Asperger Traits (http:/ / www. help4aspergers. com/ pb/ wp_4a3112c8/ wp_4a3112c8. html)

• Asperger: female traits, differences between male and female traits (http:/ / www. help4aspergers. com/ pb/

wp_a58d4f6a/ wp_a58d4f6a. html) Other information

• Autism Friendly Spaces (AFS) (http:/ / autismfriendlyspaces. com/ ) - consultants for Theatre Development Fund

• Book reviews for iPad applications for autism and aspergers syndrom. (http:/ / www. bookroomreviews. com/

2010/ 08/ 16/ best-ipad-apps-for-autism-and-aspergers-syndrome/ )

• Autism Friendly Screening - The Muppets (http:/ / www. odeon. co. uk/ fanatic/ film_info/ m100321/

Autism_Friendly_Screening_The_Muppets/ ) October 2012 Autism Sunday 10 Autism Sunday

Autism Sunday

The International Day of Prayer for Autism and Asperger Syndrome Date Second Sunday in February

2012 date February 12

2013 date February 10

2014 date February 9

Autism Sunday, also known as the International Day of Prayer for Autism and Asperger syndrome, is observed annually on the second Sunday of February.

History Autism Sunday was first held in 2002 during Autism Awareness Year in the United Kingdom. It was initiated by parents and carers Ivan and Charika Corea, founders of the Autism Awareness Campaign UK. Parents of Charin, a teenager with autism spectrum disorder and a communication disorder, they urged leaders of religious organisations, churches, community groups and world leaders around the globe to speak up for people with autism and Asperger syndrome.[] What started as a small acorn of an idea in their home has turned into a huge international event. Autism Sunday is now celebrated across the world in many countries. The first service for autism was held in February 2002 at St Paul's Cathedral in London. Former Education Ministers, peers from the House of Lords, celebrities, writers, broadcasters, and the media joined children and people at St Paul's Cathedral to pray for children and adults with autism and Asperger syndrome, as well as their parents and caregivers. In 2008, the first Early Day Motion on Autism Sunday was tabled in the House of Commons, in the Palace of Westminster. The motion, EDM 874, was sponsored by David Drew MP and signed by 71 members of Parliament. It calls on the Government to work with all faith communities in order to reach out to parents, caregivers and people with autism and Asperger syndrome in local communities; and urges church leaders and community groups of all denominations to engage with people with autism and Asperger syndrome.[] The British Prime Minister, David Cameron extended his personal support for Autism Sunday.[]

Debate in the House of Commons Autism Sunday was mentioned in a debate in the House of Commons in the British Parliament. David Taylor (British politician) MP mentioned the day and called for action stating that the 'Churches and other religious organisations will be supporting an international day of prayer for those with autism and Asperger’s syndrome. Will the Leader of the House take this as a bid for a topical debate on the issue, which affects hundreds of thousands of people throughout the country?The conditions are under-recognised and under-resourced and they badly need a national strategy, a national taskforce and a well resourced plan for the future.' [] Autism Sunday 11

In reply, the Leader of the Commons,(at the time) Harriet Harman MP said: 'For many years, families have struggled to support and care for children with autism, often to a great extent on their own and without the proper back-up of integrated services. There is now a great deal more awareness of the difficulties of autism and Asperger’s syndrome, and a recognition of the importance of early diagnosis and integrated services. I congratulate the Churches on picking this for an international day of prayer, and we would like to work with the Churches, local government and the voluntary sector to ensure that families with a family member who develops autism or Asperger’s have the backing that they need in future.' []

International Day of Prayer for Autism and Asperger Syndrome

Churches of all denominations around the world now honor the millions of people with autism on Autism Sunday, the International Day of Prayer for Autism and Asperger Syndrome.[] Organisers estimate there are 60 million people with autism around the world.[] Campaigners have said that many suffer without proper public services in education, health,specialist speech therapy and respite care in several parts of the world, particularly in Africa and Asia. The credit crunch and the global recession which hit many Chilean Miner Jose Henriquez, standing countries in 2008-2009 also affected the Autism Community. In the UK, second from right,here with the President people were concerned about the cuts to disability benefits and cuts to public of Chile and the 33 rescued miners - services. Homes were re-possessed during the economic downturn and some Henriquez sent a special message of support for Autism Sunday 2011 and was families below the poverty line had to choose between heating and eating.[] presented with his first autism awareness World church leaders have been supporting Autism Sunday. Pope Benedict ribbon - during his UK tour in January 2011. XVI told the organisers that he would be praying for the autism community on Autism Sunday.[] Some of the largest churches in the United States, including Rick Warren's Saddleback Church, have pledged to pray for over 60 million people with autism and Asperger syndrome on Autism Sunday. Support came from the Bishop of London in the United Kingdom, Rt.Rev.Richard Chartres.[]

The organisers have urged parents, carers and the worldwide Autism Community to use Autism Sunday as a platform to lobby and campaign on the serious issues.[] Support for Autism Sunday 2011 came from the Chilean Miner, Jose Henriquez, the 24th miner to be rescued from the San Jose mine. Henriquez was invited by US President Barack Obama to address the Presidential Prayer Breakfast in February 2011. He met Ivan and Charika Corea, the Founders of Autism Sunday in the UK, prior to his departure to Washington, D.C.[] They presented him with his first ever autism awareness ribbon.The news of the presentation was relayed by the media in Chile.[] Jose Henriquez released a special message in support of Autism Sunday 2011.[] Campaigners around the world organised an Autism Sunday Twitter Storm to mark Autism Sunday 2011 - to celebrate the lives of all people with autism.[] Autism Sunday 12

References

External links

• Autism Sunday Official Website (http:/ / www. autismsunday. co. uk)

• Autism Sunday Blog (http:/ / autismsunday. blog. co. uk)

• Autism Sunday Website (http:/ / autismsunday. tripod. com)

• Coping With A Thunderbolt - Church Times (http:/ / www. churchtimes. co. uk/ content. asp?id=88708)

• Autism Sunday - Act on Autism Church Urged - Church Times UK Feature (http:/ / www. churchtimes. co. uk/

content. asp?id=51129)

• Key Leaders Back Autism Sunday - Medical News Today (http:/ / www. medicalnewstoday. com/ articles/

137580. php)

• Praying for a time when every Sunday is Autism Sunday - About.Com Special Needs Children (http:/ /

specialchildren. about. com/ b/ 2009/ 02/ 05/ praying-for-a-time-when-every-sunday-is-autism-sunday. htm)

• Poem Video made by Janice L. Cox for UK Autism Foundation London Service for Autism Sunday (http:/ /

www. godtube. com/ watch/ ?v=9FFFFMNU)

• US News report on Television on Autism Sunday (22 News) (http:/ / dailypress. tv/ video/ Autism-Sunday)

• Autism Sunday (International Day of Prayer for Autism) Facebook Page (http:/ / www. facebook. com/ group. php?gid=49990489146)

Autistic Pride Day

Autism rights movement

Autistic Pride Day, an Aspies for Freedom initiative, is a celebration of the neurodiversity of people on the autism spectrum on June 18 each year.[] Autistic pride recognises the innate potential in all people, including those on the autism spectrum.

Autistic pride In June, the organisations around the world celebrate Autistic Pride Day, with events around the world, to persuade “neuro-typicals”, people not on the autism spectrum, that autistic people are “unique individuals” who should not be seen as cases for treatment."[] Autistic pride asserts that autistic people have a unique set of characteristics that provide them many rewards and challenges. Although autism is an expression of neurodiversity, some people promoting Autistic pride believe that some of the difficulties that they experience are as the result of societal issues. For instance, campaigns to gain funding for autism related organizations promote feelings of pity.[][] Researchers and people with high-functioning autism have contributed to a shift in attitudes away from the notion that autism is a deviation from the norm that must be treated or cured, and towards the view that autism is a difference rather than a disability.[] New Scientist magazine released an article entitled "Autistic and proud" on the first Autistic Pride Day that discussed the idea.[] Autistic Pride Day 13

Themes • 2005 Acceptance not cure — main event of 2005 was in Brasília, capital of Brazil. • 2006 Celebrate Neurodiversity — main events of 2006 were an Autistic Pride Summer Camp in Germany and an event at the Scienceworks Museum in Melbourne, Australia. • 2007 Autistics Speak. It's time to listen • 2008 Not known • 2009 Not known • 2010 Perspectives, not fear • 2011 Recognize, Respect, Include

Footnotes

External links

• Controversial New Movement: Autistic and Proud (http:/ / abcnews. go. com/ GMA/ OnCall/ story?id=5033594& page=1) - Good Morning America - ABC June 10, 2008

• Autism Acceptance blog (http:/ / autismacceptanceday. blogspot. com/ )

Light It Up Blue

Light It Up Blue, annually observed on April 2 is dedicated to raising awareness of autism.[1] Autism Speaks, the world's largest autism science and advocacy organization, announced the launch of the inaugural Light It Up Blue campaign in 2010.[2] This initiative is intended to raise international awareness of autism as a growing public health crisis in support of World Autism Awareness Day and Autism Awareness Month in the United States.[3]

History Iconic landmarks around the globe – including the Empire State Building in New York City and Willis Tower in Chicago along with the CN Tower in Toronto and Kingdom Tower in Saudi Arabia – as well as airports, bridges, museums, concert halls, restaurants, hospitals,[4] and retail stores, are among more than 100 structures in over 16 U.S. cities and nine countries around the world lit up in bright blue on the evening of April 1, 2010 – the first night of Autism Awareness Month in the United States and the eve of World Autism Awareness Day (WAAD).[5] On April 2, 2010, the third annual World Autism Awareness Day was celebrated at the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) where Autism Speaks volunteers and supporters opened the day by ringing the NYSE opening bell.[6] In 2011, despite efforts by Autism Speaks, the White House said it will not light up blue in honor of World Autism Awareness Day.[7]

External links • Light It Up Blue [8]

References

[8] http:/ / www. LightItUpBlue. org Article Sources and Contributors 14 Article Sources and Contributors

World Autism Awareness Day Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?oldid=541380502 Contributors: AXRL, Aussiepete, Autiworld100, CaroleHenson, Estevoaei, Jim Michael, Johnson aj, Kathgrr, MKar, Mbellavia, Ohconfucius, Rich Farmbrough, Rochelimit, Sentausa, WSGene, સતિષચંદ્ર, 7 anonymous edits

Autism friendly Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?oldid=537021701 Contributors: Autarch, Bluerasberry, CaroleHenson, Chris the speller, Ernestogon, IceKarma, Jackstevens87, Lova Falk, Mogism, RexRowan, Zakawer, 6 anonymous edits

Autism Sunday Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?oldid=544675119 Contributors: Autione, Autisun, Autitalk, Autitalk01, Autiworld100, Autiworld25, Bnynms, CaroleHenson, D6, Edward, Eubulides, Fram, Ground Zero, J Milburn, Jimp, John of Reading, Majorly, Martarius, Nuttah, Petomai, Phillips15, Rettetast, SandyGeorgia, Shelko300, Stainedglasscurtain, Tassedethe, Tim!, Timrollpickering, Trivialist, Triwbe, Whatever404, 4 anonymous edits

Autistic Pride Day Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?oldid=541108915 Contributors: Altenmann, AmyNelson, Antonio Lopez, Azumanga1, Banana04131, Barbara Shack, Bearian, CaroleHenson, DarkRain, DeadlyLintRoller, Estevoaei, Eubulides, Evercat, Excirial, Gaius Cornelius, GetDumb, Gsmgm, Ilse@, Ipatrol, Jlittlet, JoeMele, John, Jpgordon, Kappa, Katanada, KnightRider, Kusma, Lars Washington, Lilac Soul, LookingYourBest, Lord Patrick, Lova Falk, Luai lashire, Medeis, Mini-Geek, MrConga, Mrld, Paula Durbin-Westby, Petersam, Pi zero, Pika Pikachu2005, Plasticup, Polarscribe, Q0, Quadell, Rjwilmsi, Roeeyaron, Ryan Norton, SandyGeorgia, Simon South, Soap, Spaceflower, Trivialist, Tunnelblick, Wongm, Writtenonsand, Zzyzx11, 59 anonymous edits

Light It Up Blue Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?oldid=537592370 Contributors: Mbellavia, Molen17, Physics is all gnomes, Realkyhick, 3 anonymous edits Image Sources, Licenses and Contributors 15 Image Sources, Licenses and Contributors

File:World-autism-awareness-day.jpg Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=File:World-autism-awareness-day.jpg License: Attribution Contributors: United Nations File:Autismawareness.png Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=File:Autismawareness.png License: GNU Free Documentation License Contributors: Jason Bullett, transparent background by Ioannes.baptista File:Opening a window to the autistic brain.jpg Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=File:Opening_a_window_to_the_autistic_brain.jpg License: Creative Commons Attribution 2.5 Contributors: Connie Kasari File:Ty Nant, Ringland Circle, Newport - geograph.org.uk - 1592795.jpg Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=File:Ty_Nant,_Ringland_Circle,_Newport_-_geograph.org.uk_-_1592795.jpg License: Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 2.0 Generic Contributors: Fæ File:Malibu California surf adaptive recreation.jpg Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=File:Malibu_California_surf_adaptive_recreation.jpg License: Creative Commons Attribution-Sharealike 2.0 Contributors: FlickreviewR, OttawaAC File:CDP Images Workshop children with autism.jpg Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=File:CDP_Images_Workshop_children_with_autism.jpg License: Creative Commons Attribution-Sharealike 2.0 Contributors: FlickreviewR, Kilom691, OttawaAC File:Autism Friendly.jpg Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=File:Autism_Friendly.jpg License: Creative Commons Attribution-Sharealike 3.0 Contributors: User:Cjprice88 File:AutismSunday01.jpg Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=File:AutismSunday01.jpg License: Public Domain Contributors: Autisun File:Mina San José - Los 33 in the Blue Room at Presidential Palace with President and First Lady - Gobierno de Chile.jpg Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=File:Mina_San_José_-_Los_33_in_the_Blue_Room_at_Presidential_Palace_with_President_and_First_Lady_-_Gobierno_de_Chile.jpg License: Creative Commons Attribution 2.0 Contributors: Gobierno de Chile License 16 License

Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 3.0 Unported //creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/