Spread the Word: April is National Autism Awareness Month

The month of April is an important time to raise awareness for autism. The disease is affecting more individuals around the world each day.

According to Light It Up Blue website, prominent buildings across North America and the world will turned their lights blue to raise awareness for autism on April 1-2. Stoneham-based participated in the cause by selling blue light bulbs this year.

Stoneham resident Lisa Alexander, whose daughter is autistic, wants the community to get involved because autism’s prevalence is increasing. She said 

“According to Autism Speaks, autism now affects one in 110 children and one out of 70 boys,” Alexander said. “Even if your child does not have autism, it's likely that your child has contact with one.”

Public schools in the community have specialized classrooms for children with autism, including the , and elementary schools.

“My daughter has 45 minutes of integration per day into a ‘typical’ classroom in her school," Alexander said. "Parents need to become aware and also spread awareness to their children."

Alexander’s daughter has PDD-NOS, which is an autism spectrum disorder, according to the Autism Speaks website. She has heard children disrespect her daughter with the lack of knowledge about the disorder.

“I have heard children say that she has no brain, don’t play with her or my daddy said her brain is sick,” Alexander said. “Obviously, these children aren't being educated on what autism is and how to be sensitive and caring for them.”

National Autism Awareness Month, which is celebrated by the Autism Society, is an ideal time for people to ask questions about the condition and gain a better understanding of it.

“I'm doing my part by posting an autism fact on my Facebook page every day during the month of April,” Alexander said.

For more information about autism, visit the Autism Society website.