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Young World
Be a friend
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April 2, 2008 was designated as the first ever World Autism Awareness Day. Do you know what it means to have autism?
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Do you think all the kids in your class are the same in all respects? Do you think they are different in some way or the other? Yes, they are different. Some are girls, some are boys, some are tall, some are short and some have autism. But they are all the same as well — they all have feelings and want to have friends.
What does it mean?
It means that children with autism think differently and act differently because their brain works differently. They may have difficulty talking, learning, or playing with you. But, just like you children, they are special in many ways. They also enjoy the same things you do.
Well, it is hard for some children with autism to understand what we say or what our facial and body expressions mean. However, this does not mean you should stop trying to talk to them. Sometimes showing them a picture or an object helps them understand.
Do they get frustrated?
Like all people, kids with autism can get frustrated and angry, but they often cannot tell us why. Instead of words, they may use actions to express their feelings. When they are upset, confused or bored, they may make noises or spin around.
When they are excited or happy, they may flap their hands, jump up and down, or run in circles. Many children with autism get upset when their surroundings or schedules change because new or different things can be difficult or frightening. They may cry, hold their hands over their ears, or run away.
Children with autism have a hard time controlling their behaviour because they have difficulty understanding or dealing with the world around them.
Some symptoms
Have trouble talking, making strange sounds or not talk at all.
Flap their hands, spin or laugh a lot.
Behave or play in unusual ways.
Be very active or be very quiet and like to spend time alone.
Have trouble looking at you.
Do or say the same things over and over again.
What causes autism?
No one knows why and there may be many different causes. Studies are still being conducted to understand autism.
For more information contact AIKYA at 9444960643
What can you do?
Some tips to help you be a friend to a kid with autism.
Accept your friend’s differences
Protect your friend from things that bother him or her
Talk in small sentences using simple words and use a lot of gestures
Use pictures or write down what you want to say to help your friend understand better
Join your friend in activities that interest him or her
Be patient — understand that your friend doesn’t mean to bother you or others
Invite your friend to play with you and to join you in group activities
Sit near your friend whenever you can, and help him or her do things if they want you to
Help other kids learn about autism by telling them about your special friend.
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