Throughout the world, the month of April is recognized as Autism Awareness Month. Each year, Elizabeth Public Schools is the host of events and activities throughout its 36 schools that help raise awareness and understanding of autism spectrum disorder and the importance of providing an innovative and personalized learning environment for each and every child who attends our schools, including those with special needs.
Among the highlights of events and activities taking place in 2019 is the Light It Up Blue campaign for which a blue light is installed at the entryway of schools and administrative offices throughout Elizabeth Public Schools to support those whose lives are affected by autism. Additionally, schools from throughout the district will be hosts to autism walks, parades, poster contests, bubbles and balloons days, unified games, and more. Students, team members, and families will be showing their support of those affected by autism by wearing blue or particular clothing items such as bracelets, tie-dye shirts, or hats that represent qualities such as unity, teamwork, achieving dreams, and expressing individuality; creating bulletin board, wall, and giant puzzle displays; and participating in classroom lessons, musical and artistic performances, workshops, and readings.
Important Facts About Autism (from the U.S. Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Autism Speaks, and Autism NJ)
- In 2018 the CDC determined that approximately 1 in 59 children (1 in 34 in NJ, according to Autism NJ) is diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD), which according to the CDC is the fastest-growing developmental disability:
- 1 in 37 boys (1 in 22 boys in NJ)
- 1 in 151 girls
- Autism affects all ethnic and socioeconomic groups
- Early intervention can improve learning, communication and social skills, as well as underlying brain development and affords the best opportunity to support healthy development and deliver benefits across the lifespan
What are the Signs of Autism? (from Autism Speaks)
The timing and intensity of autism’s early signs vary widely. Some infants show hints in their first months. In others, behaviors become obvious as late as age 2 or 3.
Not all children with autism show all the signs. Many children who don’t have autism show a few. That’s why professional evaluation is crucial.
The following may indicate your child is at risk for an autism spectrum disorder. If your child exhibits any of the following, ask your pediatrician or family doctor for an evaluation right away:
By 6 months
- Few or no big smiles or other warm, joyful and engaging expressions
- Limited or no eye contact
By 9 months
- Little or no back-and-forth sharing of sounds, smiles or other facial expressions
By 12 months
- Little or no babbling
- Little or no back-and-forth gestures such as pointing, showing, reaching or waving
- Little or no response to name
By 16 months
By 24 months
- Very few or no meaningful, two-word phrases (not including imitating or repeating)
At any age
- Loss of previously acquired speech, babbling or social skills
- Avoidance of eye contact
- Persistent preference for solitude
- Difficulty understanding other people’s feelings
- Delayed language development
- Persistent repetition of words or phrases (echolalia)
- Resistance to minor changes in routine or surroundings
- Restricted interests
- Repetitive behaviors (flapping, rocking, spinning, etc.)
- Unusual and intense reactions to sounds, smells, tastes, textures, lights and/or colors
If you have concerns, get your child screened and contact your healthcare provider
EPS is Here to Help
Do you have a child that needs help? If YES, we are here to help you.
If you have a child between the ages of three and five whom you believe may be experiencing difficulty in one or more of the following areas: sitting, standing, walking, talking, learning, getting along with others, seeing or hearing...
Please contact the Elizabeth Public Schools Department of Special Services at: 908.436.5200 or childfind@epsnj.org
All information is confidential
Additional Resources
