All things bright and beautiful,
I see too, as you
I feel too, maybe more than you!
But at my inabilities
you laugh, mocking me
Belittling me...
I scurry to this corner
Hide behind my friends
They don't stare
Nor mind my slur...
Here, I turn the pages of my life
at my own pace!
Autism, a mental development disorder, is characterized by problems in social skills, communication skills (both verbal and nonverbal) and shows very restricted interests and repetitive behavior of the individual. Usually diagnosed before 3 years of age, Autism occurs in as many as one child per 150 children. Though the severity and spread in India is almost at par with the rest of the world, the Government of India only recognized this as a disorder/disability in 2001. Before this, schools catering solely to autistic persons were not able to receive funding from the government. Persons with autism were also not eligible for concessions and benefits offered by the government unless they were diagnosed as mentally retarded, which most autistic people are not!!
Though late, the recognition and increasing awareness about Autism in India is a hopeful beginning for the better lives of these special people. However, much remains to be achieved in terms of correct and timely diagnosis, education/schooling of autistic children, acceptance in society, funding and proper implementation of grants/concessions by the govt etc.
What do you think is the biggest challenge for us to deal with Autism in India? Have you any personal experiences that you would like to share here with us?
http://www.saiautismcenter.org/current/index.htm
http://www.aba-india.org/index.html
I see too, as you
I feel too, maybe more than you!
But at my inabilities
you laugh, mocking me
Belittling me...
Hide behind my friends
They don't stare
Nor mind my slur...
Here, I turn the pages of my life
at my own pace!
Linking this to Write Tribe's 55 on Friday. The beautiful picture prompt is by Vidya. |
Autism, a mental development disorder, is characterized by problems in social skills, communication skills (both verbal and nonverbal) and shows very restricted interests and repetitive behavior of the individual. Usually diagnosed before 3 years of age, Autism occurs in as many as one child per 150 children. Though the severity and spread in India is almost at par with the rest of the world, the Government of India only recognized this as a disorder/disability in 2001. Before this, schools catering solely to autistic persons were not able to receive funding from the government. Persons with autism were also not eligible for concessions and benefits offered by the government unless they were diagnosed as mentally retarded, which most autistic people are not!!
Some important non profit organizations working towards this cause are listed here, please read and spread awareness!
http://www.autism-india.org/index.htmlhttp://www.saiautismcenter.org/current/index.htm
http://www.aba-india.org/index.html