Autism

Saturday, April 2 at the York Public Library, Long Sands Road, from 10am to 12 noon. Coffee will be served at 9:30am.

In recognition of Autism Awareness Month, the York Diversity Forum is presenting a program on this complex group of developmental disorders. In addition to the short film “Autism Everday”, a panel of family members, moderated by Susan Macri, Director of Special Education in the York Schools, will talk about their experiences with an autistic child.

Today, one in every 100 children is diagnosed with autism. 1.5 million children in the United States and tens of millions worldwide are afflicted, with boys having a 1 in 70 rate of occurrence. Early detection by family and physicians is critical to the success of a comprehensive therapy program, which may include the entire family. Children with autism demonstrate a wide spectrum of behaviors and abilities. They live in our communities and attend our schools. While the cause of autism is not known, it is believed that both genetic and environmental factors play a part.

Several members of the Diversity Forum first met with the parents of autistic children last September. The parents shared their stories and their concerns that the general public does not understand autism. YDF is happy to be bringing their concerns and stories to a larger audience.

Please join us. Tell you friends and neighbors. Share the attached poster.