April is Autism Awareness Month and to celebrate we would like to invite our readers to share their stories with us. We will run the stories that are shared with us throughout the month. There is no word limit and your audience is fellow parents, providers, friends and families. We do ask that you remember our blog lives forever (in cyberspace) so please remember to be considerate of others and what personal information you share. If you’d like to submit your story please send it to [email protected]. We can’t wait to hear from all of you!
Also, there are several activities, events and lectures being held to help raise awareness in the area. Check them out if you can! And let us know if there are any we are missing.
WAAAlk for Our Champs
Saturday, April 4, 2015
10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Kick off the month by joining Seattle Children’s at Washington Autism Alliance and Advocacy’s event WAAAlk for our Champs on Saturday April 4, 2015 from 10 am to 3 pm at the Kirkland Marina Park. The walk will be held on Lake Street and the fun fair and resource booths will be held in the Marina Park. There will be something for everyone to do, face painting, trampolines, bicycles, bouncy houses, music, crafts and more! Stop by Seattle Children’s Autism Center’s booth and help support WAAA, a valuable organization that focuses on:
• Providing pro bono guidance, counseling, coordination, training, resources, and legal support to families and professionals, to help them attain effective autism treatment and socially significant rehabilitative programs statewide.
• Offering pro bono community services such as support groups, a respite care program, and peer social communication portals so families of children with ASD can connect, share experiences, and feel less overwhelmed by the intensity of caring for an autistic child.
• Lobbying for legislation that directly supports and improves the health, safety, and education of children and adults with ASD, then working to connect the dots to make sure the policies are actually implemented to support those in need.
Seattle Children’s Theatre performance of Goodnight Moon
Saturday, April 4, 2015
5:30 p.m.
This performance is sensory friendly and will provide children and their families an opportunity to attend a performance modified to meet sensory needs. Tickets may be purchased through the box office by calling 206.441.3322. Inquiries and specific questions can be emailed to [email protected]. Ticket Prices: Adults: $40, Children: $33
Autism Science Café
Thursday, April 9, 2015
6 – 8 p.m.
Ada’s Bookstore & Café: 415 15th Ave E, Seattle, WA (Capitol Hill)
Raphe Bernier, PhD and Wendy Stone, PhD will answer all your questions! Space is limited and reservations are required! RSVP now.
Thursday, April 16, 2015
Coffee and Tea Social before Autism 200 hosted by Seattle Children’s Autism Center
6 – 7 p.m. Wright Auditorium, Seattle Children’s Hospital
Autism 200 “A Visit to the Dentist: Promoting Oral Care”
7 – 8:30 p.m. Wright Auditorium, Seattle Children’s Hospital
Saturday, April 18, 2015
Exploration for All: Autism Early Open at Pacific Science Center
8 – 10 a.m.
All families affected by autism spectrum disorder are invited to explore the Pacific Science Center during a special free morning visit before they open to the public. Experience exhibits without heavy crowds, with softened general lighting and decreased noise level and visual stimulation on interactive exhibits wherever possible. More information.
Thursday, April 23, 2015
Autism 101
7 – 8:30 p.m. RC.3.905, Seattle Children’s Hospital
This lecture is intended for parents and families of children recently diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD). There is no need to register in advance to attend.