The 6th Annual Autism Awareness Event organized by Selçuk University Vocational School of Health Services Disabled Care and Rehabilitation Program on the occasion of "World Autism Awareness Day" included a walk, dance, music, demonstration and t-shirt painting.

The event started with an awareness walk at Selçuk University Alaeddin Keykubat Campus with the participation of faculty members, students, children with autism and their families.

Afterwards, the program was held at the Sultan Alparslan Cultural Center where dance, music, demonstration and T-shirt painting activities were held. Selçuk University Vocational School of Health Services Director Prof. Dr. Gülşin Arslan, Deputy Directors Dr. Lecturer Mustafa Kul and Assistants. Prof. Dr. Mustafa Kul and Lecturer. Assist. Yasin Can, Director of Private Üçboyut Special Education and Rehabilitation Center Keziban Günaydın, academic staff, students, children with autism and their families attended the program.

"ONE OUT OF EVERY 100 CHILDREN IS AFFECTED BY AUTISM"

Prof. Dr. Gülşin Arslan, Director of Selçuk University Vocational School of Health Services, said in her speech that April 2 was declared "World Autism Awareness Day" by the United Nations in order to raise awareness about autism and find solutions to problems related to autism. Stating that autism is a neurological-based disorder that develops from birth and is accepted to be caused by the different structure or functioning of the brain and nervous system, Arslan said, "The most effective treatment method in autism is special education. It negatively affects the social communication, interaction and behavior of individuals whose symptoms appear within the first three years of life. Studies show that one out of every 100 children is affected by autism. Autism is not a deficiency but a difference. We are aware of autism and we stand by them."

Asiye and Hamza Avcı, parents of children with autism, also made a speech about the importance of early treatment of autism.

In the program, Elif Doğan, a student with autism, recited the National Anthem, and students from the Private Üçboyut Special Education and Rehabilitation Center made a performance and presentation. Then, 2nd year students of the Disability Care and Rehabilitation Program performed a penguin dance with the children. The children had fun with spoon games and music during the program.

The activities ended with the presentation of gifts to the children.