World Autism Day

Today is World Autism Day.  Latest statistics show that one in 88 children in the United States are diagnosed with autism. 

Overcoming and curing autism is the focus of the Son-Rise program at the Autism Treatment Center of America in Sheffield, Massachusetts.  The staff and volunteers there are totally dedicated to the children and parents who take advantage of their teachings.  Barry Neil Kaufman and Samaria Kaufman cured their son of autism in the 1980s and they have been helping children and their parents since then.

There are things that parents can do to facilitate changes in their children.  But, it is important to accept the child as he or she is and love him or her unconditionally throughout the treatment.  Acceptance and love don't mean the parents don't want the best for their children, it just means total acceptance makes it easier for the child to heal and join the world of others instead of staying locked in a world of emotional isolation.

I counsel parents of autistic children, as does the Autism Treatment Center of America and the Option Institute.  There is hope and there is help.  :)