Today is World Autism Awareness Day, signifying the beginning of Autism Awareness Month throughout April. Many people and organizations are joining in the effort to raise awareness of autism spectrum disorders (ASDs), including campaigns such as Autism Acceptance Month, Million Dollar Puzzle Piece Challenge and Light It Up Blue.
Increased awareness has already contributed to a larger number of autism diagnoses in recent years. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, an estimated 1 in 88 children has autism. Now a recent survey shows this number could be as high as 1 in 50.
As this number grows, the need for supporting services and products to facilitate day-to-day tasks grows as well. For this reason, autism awareness continues to be important, but acceptance is equally important.
CB&A has gained many education insights throughout our more than 20 years in the industry. Yet, one of the greatest lessons is that every student learns differently. There will never be one best way to learn. Similarly, there are many different ways of processing and thinking – key word here being different, not less.
April is “Autism Awareness Month” – an opportunity to educate others about the differences, strengths and talents of individuals with autism – but every day should be autism acceptance day. Take the time to learn about what autism is – chances are you or someone you know has a friend or a family member with autism.
The CB&A team is wearing blue today in hopes that we can raise both awareness and acceptance of autism. Stay tuned throughout the month of April for more information and an exciting company announcement!