April is Autism Awareness month in Canada, as it is in much of the world. On October 23, 2012 a World Autism Awareness Day bill was passed by members of the House of Commons in Canada. Bill S-206 officially recognizes April 2 as World Autism Day here in Canada and on that day blue flags and banners were raised across the country. I am a bit slow commenting on this but I hold that the whole month is one to raise awareness and regardless of the date we can open our eyes to the global challenge of this disorder.
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and autism are both general terms for a group of complex disorders of brain development. These disorders are characterized, in varying degrees, by difficulties in social interaction, verbal and nonverbal communication and repetitive behaviours.
On March 27, 2014, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) released new data on the prevalence of autism in the United States. This surveillance study identified 1 in 68 children (1 in 42 boys and 1 in 189 girls) as having autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Within our congregation I know three boys who have been identified and in my network I know of several other families who live with autism.
A child who is on the spectrum deals with daily challenges as they try to navigate school, socializing, activities and family dynamics. Families that live with this disorder know that there are going to be extra costs as they fund therapy and support for their child. (The Autism Speaks web site says it can cost a family up to $60,000 a year). I know parents who agonize over what will happen to their child as they mature into adulthood. How will they cope? Who will support them when they can’t manage on their own?
Here at the church we make it a priority to be open to children who find the typical church experience to be a challenge because of the way they see and experience the world. Sometimes we fail but we do out best and try to do better all the time. Vacation Bible Camp and Faith Trek are places where the kids learn about acceptance and inclusiveness and we try to live out our teaching by providing a space that welcomes all.
On April 2nd landmarks around the world were coloured blue to signify Autism awareness. Colour me blue as I try to learn more about the challenge this spectrum presents to our youngsters and their families.
