News & Press Releases

Irvington’s Special Needs Parent Support Group Promotes Autism Awareness

To increase awareness about the challenges some Irvington students and families face, the ICS/IPA Special Needs Parent Support Group was recently formed. Since April was National Autism Awareness Month (and even though we’re a bit late), it seems the topic of autism is the best place to start!

Autism is a developmental disability that typically appears within the first three years of life. It is a “spectrum disorder,” meaning it affects each individual differently and to varying degrees. People with autism have difficulties with verbal and non-verbal communication, social interaction, and leisure activities. Autism knows no racial, social, or economic boundaries, and boys are affected about four times more frequently than girls. A generation ago autism was thought to be rare, affecting between 1 in 5,000 to 1 in 10,000 individuals. That number, however, has skyrocketed. The latest statistics, released by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in December 2009, show the incidence of autism is now 1 in 110 individuals – and 1 in 70 boys. The incidence of autism in Indiana public school systems is 1 in 101 students.

With a combined ICS/IPA student population of more than 700 students, one would expect to find several students with autism, which is indeed the case. For the most part, these students are integrated into regular school life. They have IEPs (Individualized Education Plans) that specify additional services and/or modifications to the curriculum they may need in order to help them succeed. They may also have behavioral plans in place.

What are a few simple ways you can help someone with autism to be successful? Structure in a child with autism’s life is crucial. Generally, they don’t do well with changes in their daily routine. Having a written and/or visual schedule of the day’s events can be helpful, too. People with autism do much better when they know what to expect. Those who interact closely with people with autism should make sure to have their attention when conveying information. If you’re not sure you’re “getting through,” ask questions and/or have the person with autism repeat back what you said. Make sure to include the child with autism in your activities and change the subject when the child gets stuck on a topic. Remember, you’re not the only one getting frustrated! People with autism are not intentionally trying to annoy you or misbehave. They are doing the best they can, just like you! To learn more about autism, visit the Autism Society of America’s website.

Submitted by Adrienne Urbanek

Posted Sun May 09 at 10:47 am