Autism Awareness Month

Written by Guest Blogger on 21/04/10

Photo by DEAL.org

The first of April marked the beginning of Autism Awareness Month. One new initiative in Ottawa this month is the launch of the Autism Registry pilot project, in partnership with the Ottawa Police Service (OPS) and Autism Ontario – Ottawa Chapter. This registry will allow both police officers and adults to gain a broader understanding of autism and learn how to more effectively engage and communicate with youth affected by this autism.

Approximately 1 in 165 children are born with autism, so there is a good chance you will encounter someone with this disorder (Autism Society Canada). Read on for some important tips on how to identify, understand and interact with someone who has autism.

Autism is a disorder that affects areas of the brain associated with social interaction and communication skills. This means that someone with autism processes information differently from those who do not have this disorder.
Autism usually appears within the first three years of life. Boys are four times more likely to have autism than girls.
People with autism may wander very far away from home. Because of difficulties communicating and processing information, they may find themselves in dangerous areas and situations and not even know it.
Drowning is the leading cause of death for people with autism. They are attracted to bodies of water like lakes, rivers, streams and even wells. This information is important if you know someone with autism that goes missing.
Often, people with autism do not like to be touched or have their personal space invaded. You may notice that they don’t look directly at you, they may rock back and forth, swing their arms around or repeat back everything you say. For example: if you ask, “What is your name?” They might answer: “What is your name?” instead of answering the question.
Be patient. Talk slowly to someone with autism. Give him or her lots of time to respond. If you notice someone who you think is lost or in danger, get help immediately from a trusted adult like a parent or teacher.

By DEAL.org guest blogger, Ellen Gervais (RCMP National Crime Prevention Services)

Links

http://www.autismontario.com/Ottawa
http://www.rcmp-grc.gc.ca/gazette/vol71n1/sub-rep-autism-autisme-eng.htm
http://www.autismriskmanagement.com/