Dare to be different
Dressing up are (from left) Luke McLaren, Adam Broadstock, Alisha Rabnott, Christopher Duncan, School Nurse Janice Davies, TJ Straw and Georgia Knoll. A flamboyant spirit filled the air in May with Autism Awareness Month, driven by the theme of Creative Futures.
Creative Futures evolved to reflect the unique perspective of people with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) and to celebrate their creative expression.
The theme also promoted community awareness and recognition of talented adults and children with ASD.
Each year during Autism Awareness Month, Autism Queensland hosts Dress Differently Day. This year on 16 May, schools and organisations across the state dressed up in outrageous outfits, things they wouldn't normally wear, to appreciate the feeling of difference.
Event organiser for Autism Queensland, Heidi Christie, says acceptance by others is central to allowing children to embrace their creative potential, and this can only be achieved through raising awareness.
"If dressing differently was not suitable for some schools and organisations, they came up with alternative ways to support us. I feel it's important for children to develop a sense of concern and compassion for others and understand the beauty of giving."
ASD affects one in 160 children aged between six and 12 years, affecting their social and communication skills and their ability to process information and adapt to their environment. But with the right levels of support, Autism Queensland believes people with autism can create exceptional futures for themselves.
According to Austism Queensland, people with ASD are able to perform successfully with purpose and passion in a world that they may otherwise find challenging and difficult, by directing specific talents, skills and interests into various creative pursuits.
Queensland's regions showed strong support in promoting awareness within their communities. Ann-Marie Watson from Mackay District Special School says,"It was wonderful to hear some of the students explain why they dressed differently for the day".
Meanwhile, Ellen Gallacher from Wide Bay TAFE, says,"Child care students at the TAFE got into action with their wild costumes and learnt more about ASD in the process".
Fundraising activities such as sausage sizzles, morning teas, crazy hat days, education workshops, presentations and public displays were among the other events held for Autism Awareness Month.
Autism Awareness Month is an annual campaign and will be held again in May next year with Dress Differently Day taking place on 7 May 2008.
Last updated November 2007