April 2 is World Autism Awareness Day. The United Nations first designated this day in 2007 to advocate for quality-of-life improvements for autistic individuals. Since its inception, the observance has grown beyond simple awareness and now promotes autism acceptance, inclusion, and appreciation of the contributions of autistic individuals to the world.
Autism, also called ASD, is a lifelong, neurological condition that affects how a person communicates, interacts with others, and interprets the world. It is described as a spectrum because autism presents differently in each person. Common challenges include social communication, difficulty with unexpected changes in routines, and differences in sensory experiences. Common strengths include expertise in areas of interest, attention to detail, and creative thinking. The constellation of strengths and challenges varies from one autistic individual to the next.
A trauma-informed understanding of autism recognizes that every autistic person is unique. Individuals thrive when their strengths are seen, their communication is honoured, and their needs are met without judgment. Support should be collaborative and empowering, never shaming or minimizing what someone feels or needs.
A brief history of autism:
- Pre-1980: Autism was not officially recognized as a standalone diagnosis, but as a symptom of other conditions. It was considered to be very rare, affecting only 4.5 children per 10,000.
- 1980: Autism was first officially recognized as a standalone diagnosis.
- 1980s to today: Rates of diagnosis increased as definitions of autism gradually broadened, awareness increased, and support services evolved.
- Today: Approximately 1 in 30 children and youth in BC have been diagnosed with autism.
Common Myths About Autism
Myth: Vaccines cause autism.
Fact: Signs of autism often appear around the same age that children get vaccines. This timing caused confusion in the past, but research shows vaccines do not cause autism. The study that first suggested a link was proven false and retracted, and the doctor who conducted the study lost his license to practice medicine. Large studies have confirmed there is no connection between vaccines and autism.
Myth: Autism is becoming more common.
Fact: Numbers seem higher now because diagnostic criteria have broadened, tools for screening children for autism have improved, autism awareness has increased, and stigma has decreased.
What We Offer
At Shuswap Children’s Association, we offer programs and services for children and youth with diverse support needs, including autism. Whether your family is just starting to notice developmental differences or your child already has a diagnosis, we support children, youth, and families by providing safe, welcoming, and community informed programs and services.
Some of our programs that support children and youth with ASD include:
- The Nest Positive Behaviour Support Services – Fee-for-service program for children aged 2 to school age. Services include supervision from a Board-Certified Behaviour Analyst and 1-to-1 support from a Behaviour Interventionist. Autism funding, funding from online learning schools, third party and private funds are accepted.
- A Pathway to Hope – Early years mental health, behavioural, Indigenous, and family support for children up to school age.
- Family Service Worker Program – Service for families with children from birth to 18 years old including support with filling out complex paperwork for children and youth.
- Pediatric Occupational Therapy & Physiotherapy – Help with movement and daily life skills for children birth to school age.
- FLY Youth Program – Fee for service youth group for children aged 6 to 18 with a 3 to1 youth-to-staff ratio. The program offers daytime, after school and evening groups along with seasonal day-camps and overnight weekend camps.
Many of these programs accept self-referrals. Professionals can also refer children with the family’s consent. Visit www.shuswapchildrens.ca/resources/referral-form/
Need support or more Information? Shuswap Children’s Association welcomes conversations. Call us at 250-833-0164 x1, email info@shuswapchildrens.ca, visit www.shuswapchildrens.ca, or drop by at 551 Trans-Canada Hwy NE. We’re happy to talk about programs, referrals, or supports for children, youth, and families.
