Autism Awareness

Ms. Jennifer Lo Conti, Special Education Teacher, Autism Program 13th Avenue School Newark, New Jersey At 13th Avenue we celebrated “Our First Annual Balloon Festival for Autism”. We initiated with a brief introduction about Autism. The groups were formed by grade levels and were prepared with fun-filled hula-hoops and parachute activities. As we approached for our count down to spreading autism awareness to the world the students held the balloons along side their teachers, they were all very thrilled to let the balloons go at the same time. The spectacular sight was gratifying and with all the support of teachers, students, and parents more families nationwide can have an understanding of Autism and how we can spread more awareness and support. What Does Autism Mean? Autism causes kids to experience the world differently from the way most other kids do. It's hard for kids with autism to talk with other people and express themselves using words. Kids who have autism usually keep to themselves and many can't communicate without special help. They also may react to what's going on around them in unusual ways. Normal sounds may really bother someone with autism — so much so that the person covers his or her ears. Being touched, even in a gentle way, may feel uncomfortable. Kids with autism often can't make connections that other kids make easily. For example, when someone smiles, you know the smiling person is happy or being friendly. But a kid with autism may have trouble connecting that smile with the person's happy feelings. Autism affects many children in New Jersey and it is important even though we might not know someone with the disorder---we still should know what it is and how to support all our your local families within the community. We look forward to this becoming an annual event at 13th Avenue School. The autistic teachers are united!