Autism Awareness Walk or Roll Event Bringing Activities, Awareness

Autism Awareness Month is a yearly observance held during the month of April. The purpose of this month is to raise awareness and promote understanding of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), a neurodevelopmental condition that affects social communication, behavior and sensory processing.

During Autism Awareness Month, individuals, organizations and communities around the world participate in various events and activities. Autism Awareness Month was first observed in April 1970 by the Autism Society, a U.S.-based organization that aims to improve the lives of individuals with autism. Since then, it has grown into a global initiative, with many countries around the world joining in to spread awareness and promote inclusion and acceptance of individuals with ASD.

Locally, Polara Health’s Autism Program will be hosting the 2nd Annual Walk or Roll: Move 4 Autism Community Picnic. This event will be from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Friday, April 14, at A.C. Granite Creek Park in Prescott. We will have fun activities for the attendees, including lunch. Also, local autism resource providers will be in attendance with information on community support.

Polara Health’s Autism Program Manager Heidi Ackzen oversees the services and support groups provided. Through the past couple of years, her team has begun to serve those living with autism by offering two different groups to both adults and children. The program facilitates a communication 101 group that helps to teach the social, emotional and communication skills needed to navigate one’s environment. The second group is an anger management group that helps to identify the different emotions that arise when upset and dysregulated. Both groups are centered on the proven, evidence-based intervention rooted in applied behavior analysis (ABA).

In addition to the groups, we offer and provide families/caretakers opportunities for relief by organizing respite events throughout the year. These events not only provide the family with respite from caring but it also opens up the community and new settings to those we support.

Parent support is crucial for children with autism, as it can significantly impact their development and well-being. Here are some ways that parents can provide support for their children with autism:

Educate yourself about autism. Learn as much as you can about autism spectrum disorder, including its symptoms, causes and treatments. This will help you understand your child’s needs and behaviors, and enable you to provide appropriate support.

Seek professional help. Consult a healthcare professional, such as a pediatrician, psychologist or speech therapist, who specializes in working with children with autism. They can help diagnose your child’s condition and provide guidance on treatment options.

Develop a structured routine. Children with autism often thrive on structure and routine, so it’s important to establish a consistent schedule for your child. This can include regular mealtimes, bedtimes and activities.

Use visual aids. Visual aids, such as pictures, charts and schedules can help children with autism understand and remember important information. They can also be useful in organizing daily routines and activities.

Create a sensory-friendly environment. Children with autism may be sensitive to certain sounds, lights or textures, so it’s important to create a sensory-friendly environment at home. This may involve reducing noise, providing comfortable clothing and using calming scents.

Encourage communication. Communication can be a challenge for children with autism, but it’s important to encourage them to communicate in whatever way they can. This may involve using visual aids, learning sign language or using assistive technology.

Connect with other parents. Connect with other parents of children with autism, either in person or through online support groups. They can offer valuable advice and support, and help you feel less alone in your journey.

Remember, every child with autism is unique and what works for one child may not work for another. It’s important to be patient, flexible and open to trying new approaches. With the right support and resources, children with autism can thrive and reach their full potential.

Polara Health’s Autism Program also has a monthly hybrid support group for parents of special needs children, including autism. For more information on the Wallk & Roll; Move for Autism picnic or Polara Health’s Autism Program, please email h.ackzen@polarahealth.com, call us at 928-445-5211, or visit our website: polarahealth.com. QCBN

By Deanna Eder

Deanna Eder is the director of marketing and communication at Polara Health.