World Autism Awareness Day Observed Across the World for Raising Awareness towards Autism

2 April- World Autism Awareness Day

World Autism Awareness Day is observed across the world on 2 April. The United Nations General Assembly had declared 2 April as the World Autism Awareness Day unanimously. World Autism Awareness Day was first observed in 2008. The day is observed to highlight the needs of autistic children as well as adults so that they get a better quality of life.

The aim of World Autism Awareness Day is increasing the awareness of people about autistic people, especially children.

On this day, a lot of events are being organised across the world and these include:

• Panel discussions with the autism experts as well as NGOs
• Informational events aimed at parents of autistic children
• Artistic workshops for the autistics
• Display of the banners and posters for increasing public awareness
• Special clinics organised for families that deal with autistic people

What is autism?

Autism is the developmental disability which remains with a person for the lifetime. Autism affects the functioning of the brain. First signs of autism are observed when the child is three years old. People suffering from autism:

• Find difficulty in social interaction
• Have issues with verbal or non-verbal communication
• Demonstrate the repetitive or restrictive behaviour
• Have restricted activities and interests