Autism Awareness - Puzzle Me This

As most people know, autism occurs in epidemic numbers. Some agencies report a 1 in 68 chance of a child being diagnosed with autism. Just last year, the CDC reported that 1 in 45 children have autism, based on an annual door-to-door survey. Alarming as that may be; it does not tell the whole story. Autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder of degrees. People affected with autism are often said to be on "the spectrum." That is because autism presents in as many different ways as the people effected by it.

One symbol for autism is the brightly colored puzzle piece. This logo was originally selected because autism was a "puzzling" collection of symptoms and the puzzle piece was unique. While not everyone favors the puzzle piece, it does seem to be the most commonly used symbol.

Our school,like most others, has many students both diagnosed and non-diagnosed with autism and or on the autism spectrum. This impacts the students in so many ways. They often have difficulty reading social cues, handling frustration appropriately and myriad other daily challenges. Teachers, staff, and others students are also impacted. Together we are learning how to live and grow with autism.

Being challenged is the best way to grow. The challenge of autism in our school has challenged us all to learn to be more inclusive, more understanding, and more resilient.

April is autism awareness month. We take time this month to be aware that we all need help, respect, and care from one another. So, this month, let's celebrate the differences that make us unique, that make us one small piece in a gigantic, world-wide puzzle. Let's become aware of what we all need from one another. And most importantly, let's become aware of what we all can give one another.