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GEORGE BUSINESS NEWS - Binah will be hosting its third annual Big Walk on Sunday 14 April at 16:00 at the Garden Route Botanical Garden.
The family event aims to raise awareness for families who live with autism. April is International Autism Awareness month, or, as the autism community would like to call it, Autism Acceptance month.
Don't just share quotes about autism on social media, join the Big Walk and spend some time with our special needs communities.
When a child is autistic that child's whole family is affected. Autism families avoid socialising away from their homes for the simple reasons that home is familiar, there is routine and an autistic child's meltdowns can be contained. Most often an autism family will arrive at a social event last and will be the first to leave, if they attend at all.
This may be the best way for them to alleviate the stress their child experiences during
social interaction and sensory stimulation. It is a mammoth task for an autism family to plan ahead. They might have to cancel plans on their way out if their child cannot cope at the time.
Do you know a family living with autism? They may not say so, but they need your support. Don't feel sorry for them. Accept that their family life differs from yours. Drop off a meal from time to time and know that it will mean a lot. When you see a quirky child in public, just smile and say "Hi". That's the start of acceptance!
It is a heart-breaking fact that because autism is an "invisible" disability, the public may easily judge an autistic child as being undisciplined.
What better way to create a sense of community than by hosting a walk to create awareness around this disorder that affects millions worldwide? It is humbling to experience events such as this where nobody judges your child. Families enjoy a fun time in nature, meet one another and share their experiences regarding their autistic children / siblings.
The entrance fees are R50 pp and R20 for children under 12. Everyone who finishes will receive a medal.
By being there and spending time with autistic people, you show that you embrace neurodiversity. For more information regarding the Big Walk by Binah, contact Mariza van Deventer on 083 270 6382 or e-mail binahnpo@gmail.com.
For the latest news please visit the Facebook pages of Binah and Legacy Centre.
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