Mar 20, 2025, Tabloid Newspapers: Support RP Moodley School in Autism awareness
Autism is a complex developmental condition that manifests in speech and language deficits, communication and social interaction difficulties, as well as issues with behaviour and sensory functions. According to the Centre for Disease Control, the prevalence of children being identified with autism is increasing, with current statistics revealing a ratio of 1:36 children.
With April being Autism Acceptance Month, RP Moodley School for learners with disabilities is organising a special celebration to honour all the wonderful individuals affected by and impacted by autism and neurological disabilities, including children, parents, family members, therapists, teachers, students, and friends who support and form part of the community.
The school caters for learners with various disabilities such as cerebral palsy, intellectual impairments, Down syndrome, and autism spectrum disorders. The school is calling on organisations, businesses, and individuals to partner with them in raising awareness of Autism Spectrum Disorder.
This year’s theme, “Celebrating Differences,” encourages everyone to recognise that each person is unique, and their differences are a natural part of life. The school invites individuals and organisations to take part by adopting a special day where they can dress in rainbow colours or host a ‘Blue Day,’ where participants dress in blue. Special awareness stickers are available for purchase at R10 each, with proceeds contributing towards the purchase of important educational resources for the “Special Learners.”
Nishla Maharaj, Speech Therapist at the school said that the campaign for 2025 is focusing on outreach programmes for neighbouring schools and companies, where teachers or learners will be addressed on ASD. . . .
She said RP Moodley School will be hosting in house activities thoughout the month for both learners and teachers.
“We will be hosting ‘Movement Mondays’– where we will be exploring movement via yoga, tai chi, and dance, ‘Tasting Tuesdays’ – igniting our taste buds with an array of taste experiences. she said .
Maharaj emphasised that raising awareness about neurodiversity in South Africa is crucial, especially for any type of disability.
“For far too long, this population has been marginalised, stigmatised, and subjected to stereotypes. Embracing each individual’s unique abilities is at the heart of acceptance. These special awareness days promote awareness, acceptance, and ultimately help create more inclusive and compassionate environments,” she explained.
She further encouraged the community to advocate for people with disabilities and special needs. “If each one of us advocated a little each day for persons with disabilities, they would be empowered, more opportunities for employment would be created, and everything would be accessible to them to lead beautiful and fulfilling lives, whether supported or independently.”
Commenti