One in 68 children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder, says RCI Member Secretary

The All India Institute of Speech and Hearing (AIISH) observed World Autism Day on Wednesday by organising a teacher training workshop titled ‘Empowering Teachers in the Identification, Social, Behavioural, and Communication Interventions of Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD)‘.

The All India Institute of Speech and Hearing (AIISH) observed World Autism Day on Wednesday by organising a teacher training workshop titled ‘Empowering Teachers in the Identification, Social, Behavioural, and Communication Interventions of Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD)‘.

Held in collaboration with the Department of Clinical Psychology, the workshop marked the beginning of a month-long series of events as part of Autism Awareness Month. The initiative aims to raise awareness and equip teachers with the necessary skills to support children with ASD, fostering a more inclusive and compassionate society.

Inaugurating the workshop, Vikas Trivedi, Member Secretary of the Rehabilitation Council of India, New Delhi, highlighted that one in 68 children in India is diagnosed with ASD. Due to differences in brain development, these children face challenges in social communication and interaction, often leading to discrimination and stigma in schools.

Dr. Rushi, Professor and Head, Department of Clinical Psychology, AIISH, emphasised the crucial role of teachers in identifying and addressing social, behavioral, and communication difficulties in children with ASD. She stressed the need for their integration into the educational system, promoting inclusivity and celebrating diversity.

M. Pushpavathi, Director, AIISH, underscored the significance of early identification and intervention. She highlighted AIISH’s efforts in empowering parents and caregivers and training children with special needs to transition into mainstream education.

Mr. Trivedi commended AIISH’s innovative services and suggested establishing more such institutes across the country to support children with ASD.

Also present was Dr. Jayashree, Head of the Department of Speech-Language Pathology (SLP) and Chairperson of the Autism Unit, along with other faculty members and participants.