WHAT IS AUTISM?
Autism is a lifelong developmental condition that affects the way a person communicates, interacts and processes information.
The autism spectrum refers to the range of ways the condition can present in the individual, which can vary greatly from person to person and throughout their life.
While some people will have more subtle difficulties, others will have complex needs requiring more intensive support.
The behaviours and challenges typically associated with autism are often as a result of differences in thinking and processing information. It is through a deep understanding of the impacts of these different thinking styles that it is possible to develop approaches and strategies which allow autistic people to better understand and contribute to the world around them.
Charity Reach Lanarkshire Autism is in frequent touch with parents and carers of children who have deep concerns about how lockdown has adversely affected their routines, and how they will adapt to the return of full-time education within a school environment.
Family support worker Joanne Craig said:“I am fully aware of the very real concerns that our families have about the return to normal schooling in
August and, specifically, how their children are going to cope with this transition, given their additional support needs.“
She added: “The lack of information, communication and any individual or specific transitional support is creating major anxiety for these families.”
For more information about the group and the work they do, please visit reachautism.org.uk or email info@reachautism. org.uk