World Autism Day takes place on April 2 each year. More than just raising awareness of the autism spectrum and what life is like for someone with autism, the focus of World Autism Day is about acceptance and appreciation. This year, we’d like to highlight the importance of individuals on the autism spectrum getting outside, getting messy, being creative and ultimately being themselves!
Our differences are beautiful.
Imagine a world where everyone looked the same, spoke the same language, and held the same beliefs. Life would ultimately be monotonous and devoid of the vibrant spectrum of beautiful experiences that make the world truly fascinating. Just like every snowflake in the winter, and every leaf on every tree, we are all uniquely different. One of our favourite activities to do here at the Kinark Outdoor Centre that truly demonstrates the beauty of our uniqueness is tie dye clothing! It’s a chance to get messy and creative with all the beautiful colours of the rainbow coming together, and it’s always a surprise how your creation will turn out. Like the leaves and the snowflakes, no two handmade tie dye shirts are the same!
Our unique differences are not obstacles to be overcome; they are the building blocks of a mosaic that is as intricate as it is inspiring. Each individual brings a unique set of experiences, talents, and viewpoints to the table, enriching the collective tapestry of the human experience. Our differences are what make us beautiful, and they should be recognized, appreciated, and celebrated! One of the many beautiful facets of autism is the unique perspective an autistic person has to the world around them and the problems they face. Their incredible perspectives can showcase fresh insights, new ways of looking at concepts as well as offer innovative solutions to complex problems. While different perspectives may challenge societal and social norms, innovative perspectives should be celebrated as we seek to be our authentic selves, removing judgment and ensuring that all of us are supported and included.
Colour outside the lines!
Studies have found that heightened creativity is another trait that has been linked to autism (https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10803-015-2518-2). Creative thinking and unique perspectives can be displayed through the arts, musically, with the written word, through dance, painting, and more. Creative expression is an important means of communication, an emotional outlet, and where we can form connections. Embracing one’s imagination can promote healing, self-discovery, and emotional resilience, while boosting one’s mood and self-esteem, as well as provide a sense of purpose and fulfillment.
While most are comfortable colouring inside the lines, we want to urge more people not to shy away from what makes them different. Thinking within a standardized box doesn’t lead to any great discoveries or adventures. Download our free KOC Colouring Book, but remember, don’t be afraid to colour outside the lines!
The healing power of nature.
Creativity extends beyond simply visual and performing arts, creativity can be displayed through open-ended, exploratory creative play, which means getting outside and playing in nature! Studies have shown the importance of engaging in outdoor activities and the many key benefits this can provide to children with autism, including; promoting communication, emotion, cognition, interaction, physical activity, and decreasing autistic sensitivity (16th International Symposium on Society and Resource Management (ISSRM) (researchgate.net)). Additional research has shown that when playing outside children with autism displayed preferences for active play with a variety of “sensory elements” such as running, jumping, swinging, climbing, and sliding. When play time included opportunities for a challenge, mastery, imaginative play, play with natural elements, and social interaction the children were more engaged. (Now, being, occupational: Outdoor play and children with autism: Journal of Occupational Science: Vol 28 , No 1 – Get Access (tandfonline.com)). Children are nurtured by nature! We see the power of the outdoors and open-ended exploratory play every day at the Kinark Outdoor Centre. Confidence is built, stress levels are reduced, and curiosity is engaged. We’re proud to offer an engaging and therapeutic environment for the clients who come to the KOC.
This World Autism Day we want to celebrate our unique differences while acknowledging the need for supports and inclusivity in our communities. We believe in the healing power of being outdoors and immersing ourselves in nature, and the immensely positive impact that creativity can have for individuals with autism. If you are interested in learning more about the autism spectrum from individuals with autism, on April 2 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. (ET) the United Nations and The Institute of Neurodiversity (ION) is hosting their annual World Autism Awareness Day online event, where autistic speakers from around the world come together to share their unique perspectives. To tune in to the event, go to https://www.un.org/en/observances/autism-day
