#GreenFacts – Autism (Autism Spectrum Disorder)

April is “Autism Awareness Month”  a time to promote awareness, acceptance and attention to those people who are diagnosed as being on the autism spectrum.

Autism is a lifelong developmental disorder that affects the way a person views and interacts with the world around him. Persons with Autism have difficulties in the areas of social interaction, communication and imagination.People with Autism may also experience over or under sensitivity to sounds, touch, taste, smells, light, colors and movement. Due to the nature of the disability, children with Autism benefit greatly from individualized education.

Autism is treatable. Children do not “outgrow” autism, but studies show that early diagnosis and intervention lead to significantly improved outcomes.

Here are some signs to look out for:

  • Lack of or delay in spoken language
  • Repetitive use of language and/or motor mannerisms (e.g., hand-flapping, twirling objects)
  • Little or no eye contact
  • Lack of interest in peer relationships
  • Lack of spontaneous or make-believe play
  • Persistent fixation on parts of objects

Autism is sometimes understood not to be a disability but rather a different ability and this is because of how incredible some of the kids can perform well on the potentials when they get the necessary skills and training.

Various therapies needed for children with Autism includes;

  1. Speech Therapy
  2. Occupational Therapy
  • ABA Therapy (Applied Behavioral Analysis)
  1. Diet Therapy
  2. Sensory Integration Therapy
  3. Music Therapy
  • Play Therapy
  • The Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS)
  1. Parent-Mediated Therapy
  2. Social Skills Therapy

Autism Centers in Ghana :

1. Autism Awareness, Care and Training Centre (AACT)

Office Location : 39 Royalt Castle Road, Kokomlemle, Accra-Ghana

Telephone : 0303-224-729 / +233-24-432-5919

 

2. AwaaWaa2

Office Location : 39 Royalt Castle Road, Kokomlemle, Accra-Ghana

Telephone : +233-24-432-5919

 

3.HopeSetters Autism Center

Office Location : Golden Age Youth Training Center, Community 7, Tema. Accra-Ghana.

Telephone : +233-24-217-2405 / +233-20-984-5445

 

4. Multikids Inclusive Academy (MKA)

Office Location : Number M3, Adijringano Rd. East Legon

Telephone: 0202966871