World Autism Awareness Day 2024

According to WHO, one in 100 children comes under Autism Spectrum. Autism is not a disease or mental illness, but a unique way of thinking characterised by extraordinary abilities in different spheres of life. To raise awareness about the rights of autistic people and promote neurodiversity, April 2 is celebrated as World Autism Awareness Day every year. Accepting uniqueness is the first step towards creating an inclusive and supportive environment for people with autism.

This blog will help you understand what is autism, why do we celebrate world autism day and also provide tips for parents with an autistic child.

What is Autism?

Autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects how an individual behaves or communicates. It is a group of developmental conditions with varied severity and symptoms, also known as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Every individual with autism has their own set of unique strengths and challenges. Its symptoms start to appear in early childhood. These symptoms vary across children. Early detection can help children with autism receive the required support and improve their quality of life. Here are some common symptoms that you should not ignore:

• Delayed language development, difficulty in comprehending language and communicating.
• Inability to interact socially, difficulty in making eye contact, unable to respond to social cues and difficulty in engaging with other children.
• Repetitive behaviour or routine and interest in specific subjects or objects.
• Over or under-sensitive to certain stimuli such as touch, sound or textures which leads to difficulty in regulating emotions in response.
• Unusual postures or movements

Why do We Celebrate World Autism Awareness Day?

In 2008, the UN General Assembly announced 2nd April as World Autism Awareness Day to raise awareness about ASD and to support people with autism to lead a fulfilling life without any foundation. 

The reasons and purpose behind celebrating this day are to-

• Provide equal opportunities to people on the spectrum so that they can participate in society
• Drive changes in policy to promote acceptance and inclusion
• Eliminate discrimination against people with autism
• Educate people to remove myths associated with autism
• Support families of autistic people with resources and treatment
• Focus on diversity and extraordinary talent in people on the autism spectrum

World Autism Awareness Day 2024 Theme

Every year, to raise awareness autism day focuses on a theme decided by the UN. World Autism Day 2024 theme is the colour blue which signifies understanding and acceptance. This year ‘Light It Up Blue’ campaign is initiated to use blue lights and wear blue-coloured clothes as a symbol of support. 

8 Tips for Parents to Help Children with Autism

Early identification of the signs of autism in a child helps in better management of the condition. Children who are diagnosed early can benefit from timely treatment which may include a combination of behavioural, occupational and speech therapies to manage symptoms. If you think your child has delayed development, consult your doctor immediately. 

As a parent, it is not easy to learn about your child’s ASD diagnosis as it is a lifelong condition with no cure. However, there are therapies and special programs to help your child overcome developmental challenges. Here are some useful parenting tips to help you support your autistic child.

Don’t Delay Treatment

If you suspect that your child’s development is not normal, start the treatment immediately and do not wait for the diagnosis. The sooner the treatment begins, the better the chances of its success.

Educate Yourself

Gather as much information about ASD as possible. Being aware of the condition and its treatment options can assist you in making informed decisions. It will also equip you to ask questions and participate in your child’s treatment.

Understand Your Child

Observe your child to understand what frightens him, what makes him uncomfortable, what triggers him, and what calms him down. What he enjoys and what he doesn’t like. Understanding challenges and your child's behaviour can help you prevent difficult situations.

Stop Comparing

Do not compare your child with other children. Accept and celebrate him and enjoy his uniqueness. Accepting him and celebrating his little milestones will help your child feel loved and appreciated.

Follow a Routine

Autistic people perform best in a structured routine. Following a fixed timetable for food, school, play and bed keeps them calm and consistent.

Pay Attention to Your Child’s Sensitivities

Find out what sensations trigger your child or what he finds stressful. ASD children are hypersensitive or under-sensitive to light, sound, touch, smell and taste. Understanding what affects your child can help you avoid stressful situations.

Connect and Communicate with Your Child

Connecting with an autistic child can be overwhelming but it can be done with the help of non-verbal communication. Your body language, the tone of your voice, how you look at your child, and your touch can greatly aid in bonding with your child. Try to engage in activities that your child enjoys and have fun with them.

Personalise Your Child’s Treatment Plan

Put together a treatment plan based on your child’s interests. Engage your child in structured activities according to his strengths and weaknesses. Identify your child’s needs and choose treatments or therapies that address those needs.

Health Insurance for People with Autism

The government of India offers Nirmaya health insurance scheme to provide affordable healthcare to people with Autism and other disabilities. The scheme offers coverage up to a sum insured of ₹ 1.10 lakhs on a reimbursement basis. 

At Care Health Insurance, we offer coverage for individuals with ASD through several health insurance plans. Although there is no specific plan exclusively designed for ASD patients, you can choose health insurance coverage that caters to hospitalisation and healthcare expenses as per your requirements. For example, our Care Freedom plan provides coverage for in-patient hospitalisation, daycare treatment and so on. It also comes with OPD expenses (optional benefit), which includes consultation fees for specialist doctors such as neurologists, paediatricians, and others, subject to the policy's terms and conditions. 

Let’s Celebrate the Uniqueness! 

The cause of Autism is not yet known, but researchers suggest that both environmental factors and genes play a role. Unfortunately, there is no cure for ASD, but treatments and therapies are available to manage its symptoms. With early intervention, therapy, and support, individuals with ASD can contribute positively to society. World Autism Awareness Day is a special occasion to celebrate the uniqueness of every individual on the spectrum and to educate more people about autism, promoting acceptance and inclusion.

>> Also Read: Keep a Check on Your Mental Wellness with Care Supreme

Disclaimers: The above information is for reference purposes only: Policy Assurance and Claims at the underwriter's discretion.