THE head of Sunshine Special School in Lautoka said while students enjoyed festivities to mark World Autism Day yesterday, an unknown number of families across the country were unaware that many among them were afflicted with the developmental disorder.
“That is why it is often referred to as the hidden disability,” said Sunshine Special School headteacher Elenoa Vunitabua.
“Children with autism always show decreased social communication skills and you will find they would rather do things alone.
“And that is where we come in by trying to encourage them to participate in group activities.
“Unlike Downs Syndrome, where the disability is easily recognisable, autistic children are very hard to detect.
“And we would prefer if children or students are identified with learning disabilities or symptoms consistent with autism, that parents, guardians and teachers come forward and make this known.
“The worst thing that can happen is that these children are subject to disciplinary action or constantly reprimanded for no fault of their own.
“It’s better if we talk about it than try to ignore that it is present in our families, communities and society.”
