April is World Autism Awareness and Acceptance Month. Autism is a lifelong neurodevelopmental disorder that affects about one in 50 children and youth in Canada (about two percent total). Autism affects the way individuals interact and communicate with those around them, and each person with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is unique and has their own strengths, gifts, and support needs.
In addition to World Autism Awareness Month, World Autism Awareness Day is recognized on Saturday, April 2nd.
Throughout the month, the OCDSB will be offering a number of learning opportunities for students, staff, and families, and recognizing that promoting inclusion and well-being is a responsibility we all share.
A Message from Dr. Shelley Moore
In celebration of World Autism Awareness Month, Dr. Shelley Moore has recorded a special video message for our students, staff members, and families. Shelley is a special education expert and highly sought after teacher, researcher, consultant and storyteller currently based in Vancouver, Canada. She has worked with school districts and community organizations around the world, in supporting and promoting equity for all learners. A copy of Shelley’s book, One Without the Other, has been given to each of our schools to support learning.
Neurodiversity to Neuroharmony: A Virtual Event with Dr. Peter Vermeulen, Autism In Context
Dr. Peter Vermeulen is a world renowned speaker and trainer with more than 35 years of experience in the field of autism. He holds a PhD in Psychology and Clinical Educational Sciences and has earned significant recognition, including a lifetime achievement award, for his work. On Monday, April 3 at 7:00 p.m., Dr. Vermeulen will be sharing a pre-recorded virtual presentation with OCDSB staff and families that will focus on how we can increase the well-being of children, youth, and adults with ASD, and how we might address well-being in education. Dr. Vermeulen’s presentation will highlight how a positive focus on our shared desire to be happy can help us move from neurodiversity to neuroharmony; happiness has received little attention in the field of autism spectrum disorders, and many intervention studies have focused only on what makes autism different.
After Dr. Vermeulen’s pre-recorded session, attendees will be welcome to send in their questions for him to answer in a follow-up video. Please submit your questions no later than April 14, 2023.
Learning Opportunities in our Schools
Schools will receive a number of books, posters, resources, tools, and learning kits to help students and staff recognize World Autism Awareness and Acceptance Month. While each school’s activities and learning will be different, all are invited and encouraged to showcase student inclusion, well-being, and awareness.
Additional Resources