World Autism Acceptance Week
Founded by The National Autistic Society, World Autism Acceptance Week is celebrated 27th of March to the 2nd of April 2023. The aim is to raise awareness on the challenges that people with autism face daily.
During the Summer of 2019 an article was released from an interview with a young carer whose situation had become so desperate that she felt like there was no option but to ‘put herself into foster care’. At age 15, Laura Kinsley, spent nine months in foster care after not receiving adequate support. Read more here.
What is Autism?
Autism is a development disorder that appears in early childhood, this affects how people perceive the world, a person’s social skills, relationships and communication.
Autism is a spectrum condition, that means that autism is different for everyone, it affects people differently, to varying degrees and people may need little or no support.
How common is it?
In the UK it’s estimated that approximately one in 100 children have it. That’s pretty common.
Signs of Autism in young children
Avoiding eye contact
Getting upset if they do not like a smell, sound or taste
Not talking as much as other children
Repetitive movements. Example, rocking their body
Not smiling when you smile
Not responding to their name
Signs of Autism in older children
- Struggling to communicate how they feel
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Likes a strict routine, changes to a daily routine may cause upset
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Obsessive interests
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Finds it hard to make friends or may prefer being on their own
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Takes things very literal
Other signs may include
Hyperactivity
Short attention span
Aggression
Meltdowns
Unusual sleeping and eating habits
Unusual emotional reactions
Tips for parents/carers
Research on reputable websites
Build a support system: Seek local groups, specialists and online chat groups for those experiencing similar challenges. Whether it's online, face-to-face or via telephone, there are people who are there to share advice and information
Ask for help, don't be afraid to seek help if you are feeling overwhelmed
Be consistent and have a schedule. Creating consistency and building a moderate amount of routine can be good and help keep disruption to a minimum
Find non-verbal ways to connect. For example, try using gestures and visual supports to increase understanding
Make time for fun! Schedule in playtime and figure out ways to have fun together by doing something that makes young young person smile and laugh
Interested in Becoming a Foster Carer?
We're pleased that you would like to register your interest in fostering with Futures Group.
- Have a spare bedroom
- Are over 21 years of age (there is no upper age limit)
- Have experience of interacting with children or young people
We're always looking for foster carers from different cultural, religious and racial backgrounds, single people, couples (whether married or living together, with or without children). Together we can make a difference to children's lives.