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Autism

Autistic Pride Day celebrated in South Lanarkshire as flag hoisted high

The purpose was to recognise the diversity of autistic people and the infinite possibilities and variations within the autistic community.

The coordinator of a service which provides support for people with autism in South Lanarkshire has described how a global awareness day is taking on special resonance locally.

On Thursday, June 18, organisations from across the globe celebrated Autistic Pride with a variety of events. The purpose was to recognise the diversity of autistic people and the infinite possibilities and variations within the autistic community, represented by the Autistic Pride rainbow symbol.

Parents

Four tips for parents to help calm a child with autism during the pandemic

Check out these four tips:

• Talk to your child. It is important to talk to your child about Coronavirus and how the world has changed as a result of it. Parents can use visual supports such as arts and crafts, and should make sure that children do not watch too much Coronavirus-related news on TV if it causes anxiety and stress.
• Establish a daily routine. Parents who have a child with autism know the importance of creating a daily schedule. Cancelling school and play activities can be hard for the child, so it can help to find alternatives and keep them engaged in activity.
• Create a quiet space. Some days can be hard for the child and parent. When the child has a meltdown, it is important to find a quiet place inside the house where the child feels comfortable.
• Set goals to achieve. Keep some basic and simple goals that can be achieved, and focus on life skills where possible.

Anita Pradeep, whose son Brian Varghese is on the autism spectrum, shared that explaining germs, hand washing, and home activities such as Scrabble, cooking and painting helped support him during lockdown.

Audio

BBC Sounds: on being diagnosed as autistic at 39

Helena Merriman interviews successful author Holly Smale on how her life was changed by being diagnosed as autistic at aged 39.