Media release from Autism New Zealand

The week from 1-7 June is Autism New Zealand's Annual Appeal Week and this year it is supported by Cookie Time Charitable Trust. Despite the fact that Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) is one of this country's most prevalent childhood disabilities, most people know very little about the disorder and its affects on families.

It is estimated that over 40,000 New Zealanders have ASD - that's nearly 1 in 100. This week is the opportunity for the public to support the work carried out in our community by Autism New Zealand. Throughout the country, collectors will be out wearing distinctive yellow vests and holding Cookie Time buckets seeking donations. Anyone who misses a collector can give on line at www.autismnz.org.nz.

Most cases of autism spectrum disorders are diagnosed in children ages 2 to 5. Research shows that the earlier the diagnosis and early intervention treatment, the better the prognosis for good outcomes.

Parents are usually the first to notice symptoms of autism in their child. As early as infancy, a baby with autism may be unresponsive to people or focus intently on one item for long periods of time. A child with autism may appear to develop normally and then withdraw and become indifferent to social engagement. For many parents autism is a scary word and it's easy for them to feel weighed down by fear about all the things that appear to be 'wrong' with their child. Every person with an autism spectrum disorder just needs encouragement and support to have the opportunity to do the best they can. There are difficult moments and feelings, but that's not really so different from bringing up any child.

Autism New Zealand provides support, resources, education and information to people with autism spectrum disorders, their family, caregivers and professionals working with them. They maintain contact with many associations around the world and constantly source the latest materials for our membership. With fifteen branches around the country (many run by volunteer committees), each branch offers various levels of support, including holiday programmes, music therapy, social skills programmes, coffee mornings, regular meetings and pre-school support.

The word "autism" covers an incredible range of people. That's in part because autism is actually a spectrum disorder. Many people with ASD have difficulty with social relations, can become anxious about changes in routines and have challenging or difficult behaviours. They can be non verbal, unable to ready body language or facial expressions, repeat words and phrases without understanding and be withdrawn and unresponsive.