Autism is a neurologically based developmental disability which has a significant impact on ones interpersonal relationships, social-commuicative interactions, development of imagination and play skills, and a need for sameness and predictability. According to Feburary 2007 staticts from the CDC shows that autism spectrum disorders (ASD) affect 1/150 children. New Hanover County Schools have an incidence rate of 1/116. ASD include autism, pervasive developmental disorder-not otherwise specified (PDD-NOS), and Asperger syndrome. The cause of ASDs is unknown. Many children with ASD have unusual ways of learning, paying attention, or reacting to situations. ASD can affect all racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic groups.

         The autism awareness ribbon puzzle pattern reflects the mystery and complexity of autism. The different colors and shapes represent the diversity of those living with this disorder. The brightness of the ribbon signals hope-hope through research and increasing awareness.

         On April 2, 2008, World Autism Awareness Day,the staff, students, and administrators  wore  a red, blue, or yellow shirt to represent the colors of the Autism Awareness Ribbon. We then assembled on the lawn of the school to make a life size autism awareness ribbon and had a picture taken.We even made the newspaper! This year I  will continue to go to the classes throughout the month of April and read to the children about Autism and ASD. I hope that we can have a second annual Autism Awareness Day!