April is Autism Awareness Month HPMS Advisory April 2017

Light it up Blue in your neighborhood with a blue lightbulb! SHINE A LIGHT ON AUTISM: Thanks for wearing blue today celebrating World Autism Awareness day here at Harper Park (official day was April 2nd)! Here are some cool landmarks who light it up blue worldwide! Light it up Blue in your neighborhood with a blue lightbulb! Sydney, Australia NYC, USA

Light it up Blue (Cont.) Rio De Janeiro, Brazil Paris, France

Light it up Blue (cont.) …and many more! Kanagawa, Japan Washington, DC, USA …and many more!

What is Autism? Autism is a brain disorder characterized by trouble communicating, forming friendships and using language and certain concepts. An autistic child may have: ~Difficulties communicating verbally and non-verbally ~Social and behavioral challenges ~Repetitive behaviors ~Typically appears between the ages of 2-3, and starts in early-stage brain development Intro to Autism for Kids Video

The Facts Autism affects 1 in 68 children Autism affects children of all racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic groups. No medical cure, but there are interventions that can help children learn important skills that improve everyday life Fastest growing developmental disorder in the nation A child is diagnosed with Autism every 8 minutes Costs a family an average of $60,000 per year Autism receives less than 5% of the research funding of many less prevalent childhood diseases Children with Autism can learn and succeed in the classroom and beyond. Like every child, with the help of their families, providers, doctors, specialists, and communities, kids with Autism can thrive. I Am The Child (end at the 3 minute mark)