In light of World Autism Awareness Month, the Usizolwethu School for Learners with Special Educational Needs (LSEN) learners, teachers and staff celebrated by hosting a fun day on April 21.
World Autism Awareness Day (April 2) shines a light on autism, intending to develop world knowledge of autism and stress the importance of early diagnosis and intervention.
Occupational therapist Uvira Mahangi said last year they couldn’t hold any celebration due to Covid-19, but this year they couldn’t let that stop them.
The learners were given blue fabric masks, which they helped decorate; the colour blue is used to support autism awareness.
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Learners also made posters with different messages, which were placed around the school.
“The learners participated in different activities and received a meal donated by good Samaritans,” said Mahangi.
“Every year we celebrate Autism Awareness Month; however, in this community there isn’t a lot of knowledge about autism and often the learners are kept at home and isolated. Our job is to make the community aware of what autism is so children no longer suffer from misconceptions.”
Mahangi added they celebrate intending to educate the community.
The speech and hearing therapist at the school, Mariam Choonara, there is a stigma because such learners might be seen as “mad”, so we are trying to show everybody the good side of autism.
Mahangi said their learners love to dance and sing, just like any other children.
During the fun day, personal trainer Lucas Mthenjane staged an aerobics demonstration with the learners.
“Children with disabilities also have human rights. We should give them access to the outside world. It is important for communities such as Daveyton to rise up and empower themselves with the knowledge shared,” said Mahangi.
Choonara said children with autism need to be loved and cared for.
The school thanked the good Samaritans who made the day possible with their donations.
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