The Parktown community came together to raise awareness about neurodevelopmental disorders

The Key School for children with autism embarked on a walk on April 25 around Parktown with its neighbours, JMPD, SAPS bikers and other stakeholders to bring awareness to autism and neurodiversity during Autism Awareness Month.

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School principal Michelle Pallaton-Emerick said there was autism awareness every day at the school.

“Our aim this year is to spread knowledge and give our learners and their families a space where they feel heard and accepted without judgement and the stigmas around autism. My teachers teach with heart and lead with hope.”

Pallaton-Emerick added that every small step was a victory, and the staff would continue to fight for every voice to be heard and every child to be seen.

According to the United Nations, World Autism Awareness Day on April 2 was observed under the theme Advancing Neurodiversity and the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

It highlighted the intersection between neurodiversity and global sustainability efforts, showcasing how inclusive policies and practices could drive positive change for autistic individuals worldwide and contribute to the achievements of the SDGs.

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“Bringing together global experts, policymakers, and autistic voices, the event features keynote speeches, panel discussions, and interactive sessions, addressing areas such as inclusive healthcare, education, employment, and urban development. This year’s discussion explored the role of neurodiversity in shaping policies that promote accessibility, equality, and innovation across multiple sectors,” noted the United Nations.

Discussions focused on inclusive healthcare, quality education, workplace accessibility, reducing inequalities, and designing autism-friendly cities and communities.

The school aims to provide a safe learning environment for children on the spectrum and embraces each learner’s educational needs through a different way of teaching.

Head facilitator at the school Ronel McIntosh concluded, “Raising awareness helps reduce stigma, encourages empathy and promotes inclusivity in schools, workplaces and communities; creating a more supportive environment not only for the children but also the families.”

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