Today marks the 14th anniversary of World Autism Awareness Day. World Autism Awareness Day celebrates the unique talents of those with autism whilst putting a huge focus on their fantastic skills and achievements.
This day features educational events for teachers, healthcare workers, and parents, as well as exhibitions showcasing work created by children with autism. To get involved with World Autism Awareness Day you can wear something blue to show your support of understanding and accepting people with autism. Make sure to share your pictures wearing something blue on social media by using the hashtag #LightItUpBlue.
You may already know that World Autism Awareness Day takes place during World Autism Awareness Week (29th March to 4th April). There are many ways you can get involved with World Autism Awareness Day and World Autism Awareness Week. If you're working in an office or at home, you can download the World Autism Awareness Week background covers to use when attending video calls, you can find out more here.
If you're looking to educate your colleagues about autism, Chris Packham has worked with The National Autistic Society to create a fact sheet about autism and how you can support autistic people in the workplace.
If you fancy a challenge, you can participate in the Super 7 Challenge. Formerly known as 7k for 700k, the autism organisation is asking people to take on a 7-themed challenge for World Autism Awareness Week. Simply choose from one of six challenges to try. Here are your options:
● Run, walk, swim, or cycle 7K
● Do a Super 7 workout
● Hold a 7-hour gameathon
● Hold a 7-round quiz
● Cook or bake 7 dishes
● Play or sing 7 songs
If you want to test your knowledge, the National Autistic Society has created a five-part quiz to try at work, home or virtually, you can access the quiz here.
At Thornbury Community Services, we’re always supporting campaigns throughout the year. To keep up to date with what we're up to, follow us on Facebook and LinkedIn.