Minister of Education and Early Childhood Development Recognizes April 2 as Autism Awareness Day
Education and Early Childhood Development
Individuals, families and community organizations like the Autism Society must be recognized for their efforts to raise awareness of the challenges facing someone living with an Autism Spectrum Disorder, says Education and Early Childhood Development Minister Doug Currie.
“Designating an Autism Awareness Day is a wonderful way for the Autism Society to increase our understanding of Autism Spectrum Disorders and draw attention to the daily challenges they present,” said Minister Currie. “The determination and spirit of individuals living with an Autism Spectrum Disorder should be commended.”
Government continues to look at ways to improve services to individuals and families living with an Autism Spectrum Disorder. A Preschool Autism Coordinator and three preschool Autism Specialists have been hired recently to continue services to the increasing number of children and youth who are diagnosed each year.
The Department of Education and Early Childhood Development partnered with the Autism Society of PEI and other government departments to recommend a new autism strategy to strengthen and streamline services to children with Autism Spectrum Disorder and their families.
“We know how important early intervention is to help those living with Autism. We have come a long way, but there is still more to do,” said Minister Currie. “I am committed to developing an integrated, streamlined approach to the way we deliver Autism services and programs. The recommendations of the report are currently being reviewed and I am committed to sharing the report and our plan for services later this spring.”
Autism specific services are currently provided for preschool and school age children and youth in PEI. Diagnostic services are available through the Department of Health and Wellness while intervention services are provided by the Department of Education and Early Childhood Development. Intensive Behavioural Intervention (IBI) is supported and supervised by the Preschool Autism Team who provide assessment and individualized programming for young children with Autism Spectrum Disorders.
The Autism Coordinator at the department and Autism Consultants at the school boards provide individual consultation, assessment and behavioural support for students who have a documented diagnosis of Autism, PDD-NOS or Asperger Syndrome.
via www.gov.pe.ca