The Bay Area Christian Church has spent a considerable amount of energy and effort for many years, doing our part to raise awareness of autism as well as other special needs, providing support and resources in fun and creative ways. It’s been nothing short of breathtaking hearing the countless stories of Bay Area families who have been impacted by our inclusive sports programs like E-Soccer and E-Karate. Our ongoing support of the Hope Technology School remains a priority and a passion for our members and volunteers. In addition, our Spiritual Resource Ministry provides parents of children with special needs the ability to attend church service while their child attends an inclusive class with typical peers as well as teachers and helpers uniquely trained to help kids with special needs.
With this in mind, we are excited about World Autism Awareness Day and in its honor, we have compiled a few examples of what people are doing to inspire the world through their experiences helping kids with autism.
Inspiring parenting
Today is World Autism Awareness Day. For us, autism is just another part of our exceptionally cool kid. pic.twitter.com/uO0ZTntmtU
— Roni Loren (@RoniLoren) April 2, 2014
One thing parents of special needs kids look for relentlessly are examples of other parents who’ve refused to let their unique situation become a burden. Parents who break the mold and enjoy life with their kids in fun and unique ways inspire parents who may lack resources or knowledge regarding autism. The right perspective will help navigate the daily challenges a family with special needs experiences while building close family relationships.
Check out the stories of parents who are raising awareness to promote research funding, or interviews with parents who are finding creative ways to help their kids with special needs. These 10 things every parent should know about autism are also helpful.
Inspiring stories of overcoming
On World Autism Awareness Day, @UTBrownsville student talks about her brother defying the odds after his diagnosis. pic.twitter.com/u1vHF4z9Pa — Cristina García (@CristinaKGBT) April 2, 2014
Even with all the right tools and resources at your disposal, there’s no denying that the impact of autism on an individual and their family can be formidable. That’s why hearing stories of overcoming challenges, regardless of size, can provide faith and motivation to keep pushing forward.
For example, here are kids with inspiring stories, or learn more about the advantages and qualities of autism that you may not have heard of before.
Inspiring innovation
Baby sensor cap test to learn how autism develops. World Autism Awareness Day pic.twitter.com/8mQxfXs1V4
— Amazing Photos! (@TopGoogleImages) April 2, 2014
Autism research is constantly advancing, and people are continually coming up with new and creative ways to help those with autism function and communicate more clearly. We are always inspired by the Hope Technology School, and their tireless efforts to build inclusive classrooms that utilize technology in creative new ways, allowing those with disabilities communicate with their peers.
Check out apps available to help those with autism or other communication challenges learn to communicate, or how organizations as big as Major League Baseball are raising autism awareness.
There are undoubtedly countless other inspiring stories to be drawn from those sharing them on social media. We look forward to hearing yours, so feel free to share them in the comments below!