NickVenturella.com 3-29-15

Autism Awareness Month - April

March 29, 2015

April 2nd is World Autism Awareness Day, and since 1970 the Autism Society has recognized the whole month of April as Autism Awareness Month.  

The goal in April is to put a spotlight on educating others about autism. Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a complex mental and developmental difference, characterized by the unique way a person with autism communicates and interacts with other people.

My young son was diagnosed with ASD back in April of 2013.  My wife and I weren’t sure what to expect when we received the diagnosis.  Ultimately, we gained a sense of hope knowing that there was something legitimately going on with our son that we could now address to help him navigate his life’s journey a little easier / a little better.

Those with autism receive and interpret sensory information from others (your speech, body language, etc.), and the world around them, differently than those who are considered neuro-typical (those without autism).

Autism can be present from birth or form during early childhood (typically within the first three years). Those with autism have it their entire lives.  There is no single known cause.

However, autism isn't bad, it's just different.  Unfortunately, when things are different people often fear it or resist it.  This can be the catalyst for why those affected by autism are often bullied -- not good, nor acceptable.  

Next time a cashier won’t look you in the eye when you’re checking out groceries, you may stop before getting frustrated and understand that they may have autism and it’s easier for him/her to concentrate on the task at hand if they’re not receiving additional sensory information from you by looking you in the eye.  They’re not trying to offend or frustrate you, they’re just doing what they need to to function reasonably in social situations.

There is no need to fear autism or people affected by it.  In fact, this month reminds us to move toward autism to dedicate more effort to helping those with ASD and educating others about it.

There is a lot that is now known about how to effectively communicate, teach and help those affected by autism.  Educate yourself this month.  Google “Autism Awareness†and learn about all the things going on from different ASD groups around the country.  Get involved or at least learn something new about autism.

Those with autism and those who love them simply want to build skills and tools to lead happy, productive lives.

As you know, I’m a musician (among other things).  I wrote my latest album, "Light of Mourning," with my autistic son in mind as well as my wife's, and my own, emotional journey as parents.

In honor of Autism Awareness month I'm offering my album,

as a digital download.

When you download the album, it will ask you for a credit card but you will not be charged anything upon entering your credit card info -- it's simply to allow the download transaction to take place. However, you also have to option to name a fair price, if you wish.

Please feel free to forward this email to friends and family.  Spread the awareness.

Thank you,