What can be done?
One of the best gifts that can be given is education.
This gift does not stop when we graduate from school.
Our cities are filled with libraries and there is the world wide
web which provides us with information from the far reaches of the
planet. Since so many
children are being diagnosed with autism spectrum disorders it only
seems to follow suit that we educate ourselves on the matter.
Chances are good that if our own children are not affected by
them, then at least someone we know will be.
This person could be a cousin, a neighbor, a kid in your child’s
school classroom. The rates
are increasing, so it is in our best interest and the best interest of
others to seek out information regarding this topic.
If people are better educated about autism there would be more acceptance. There would be more understanding. If there were more education, then people could recognize potential symptoms in their children and have them properly diagnosed. Early diagnosis is the key to successful treatment. With this knowledge, we could provide better lives for those who have an autism spectrum disorder. I do not expect everyone to start their own crusade against autism; I’m not quite so unrealistic. What I really want is to spread some knowledge.
I have included some useful links on this page to help you find more information about autism and autism spectrum disorders. I hope that you will take the time to visit these sites and find some others on your own.
Another thing great way to help out is to volunteer time. Volunteer at the Special Olympics. Volunteer to walk in the Autism Walks Campaign. There are many organizations that accept monetary donations to help pay for autism research. If you decide to contribute in this way, take your time and be careful. A reputable charity organization is registered with the IRS. There are many web sites that are useful in determining how trustworthy a charity is. Always be sure of this before you donate your money.