Autism Awareness Month in Action
It has been an incredible month coming together to show the importance of acceptance and understanding in our community and to celebrate the strengths and achievements of individuals with Autism of all ages. The month started by recognising Autism Awareness Week from the 29th March-4th April; Autism Awareness Day on the 2nd of April; and then wrapped up with World Autism Awareness Month throughout the month of April.
Everyone had a blast this year finding imaginative and collaborative ways to get involved, we saw creativity shine through in the unique fundraising ideas, educational training opportunities, and fun and exciting events. Each and every event was exceptional and there was something for everyone – from scientists to artists and historians alike, so let’s take a dive into what went on!
Scitech Sensory Session
Scitech opened their doors to amateur scientists of all ages who spent the evening exploring everything the world of science has to offer.
In the water zone we raced boats, experimenting with water flow and learning about its sources!
Our junior scientists saw the joys of play and the wonders of science come together in Discoverland! Letting their curiosity run free exploring the possibilities of science.
Other scientists learned by testing their assumptions! Experimenting with science helps us find better explanations for what is happening in the world around us!
In the theatre we went on a journey through the magical forest and saw light in action in the light show!
WA Museum Boola Bardip – Quiet Hour
We wrote history at WA Museum Boola Bardip with the launch of our first quiet session. Everybody immersed themselves in the wonders of history during this enhanced viewing experience.
Participants learned about Western Australia’s significant historical, geological, natural and cultural connections to Australia and the whole world.
Our journey then took us through the vast and diverse environments found across our state including the Ningaloo Reef, the Peel-Yalgorup wetlands, the Stirling Ranges and cityscapes around the Swan River, exploring the wildlife that calls these places home.
Dads Get Together
Dads and father-figures celebrated in style at Palace Arcade, enjoying a night of great company and original arcade machines from the 80s and 90’s. This was some well-deserved time to unwind over a good meal, sharing stories, supporting each other and chatting about the unique experiences that fatherhood brings.
Quiet Tuesdays at The Art Gallery of Western Australia
Our young Picasso’s enjoyed a supported, small group guided tour of the gallery, then let their creativity run wild with art-based activities. Check out their creativity below!
Image credit:
Art Gallery of Western Australia gallery view featuring the work Brian Robinson … and meanwhile back on earth the blooms continue to flourish 2013. Wood, plastic, steel, synthetic polymer paint, feathers,
plant fibre and shell, 200 x 350 x 50 cm. State Art Collection, Art Gallery of Western Australia Purchased through The Leah Jane Cohen Bequest, Art Gallery of Western Australia Foundation, 2014. © Brian Robinson, 2013.
Explaining Autism at the State Library of WA
This interactive workshop saw our community come together to learn and ask questions, gaining insight from our experienced team and in addition people with Autism.
Monkey Mind
Our First Steps group had an exciting visit from the author illustrator of Monkey Mind, Rebecca Palmer. A thought-provoking children book about worrying thoughts that cause anxiety.
Rebecca’s daughter, Amber who has Autism, helped with the visual literacy and design of the book.
Dress-Ups and Activities
In the news
It was an exciting month in the media! Here are some of the places you may have seen and heard us:
- Inspiring Stories
At 6pm on Sunday 4th April, following Autism Awareness Day, our CEO Joan McKenna Kerr joined Tim McMillan on 6PR’s segment Inspiring Stories. During this one-hour chat with Tim, Joan talked about her experiences working with and for individuals with Autism, the Association’s mission here in WA, and how important it is to accept, support and celebrate the strengths and achievements of each and every person in our community. If you haven’t heard it, listen to the podcast here ➡️ https://bit.ly/31VXAst
- Triple M and Hits Regional News
Our Director of Therapy and Clinical Services, Tasha Alach featured on Triple M and Hits Regional News on World Autism Awareness Day.
- GWN 7 Regional News
The feature reached regional WA and shared the locations and landmarks that were shining Blue on Autism Awareness Day and explained the upcoming days and activities, information about Autism, and why acceptance and embracing difference in the community is important.
It was an incredible month and we are so thrilled with the incredible events and initiatives that took place throughout our community during April. We absolutely love seeing everyone embrace difference and celebrate the strengths and achievements of individuals with Autism. We would like to thank every single person who joined us at these events, ran their own events and fundraisers, and who hosted educational events with their students, peers and colleagues. Without you all we couldn’t have had such an incredible month!
If you captured a memorable moment either at one of our events, or celebrated Autism Awareness Month with your friends, family and community, we would love to see how you went! You can keep us in the look by emailing us your photos and events to share across our channels at Marketing@autism.org.au or tag us on social media!
Be sure to keep an eye on our website and social media channels for upcoming events and more highlights from the month. There are still a few events in the works that we unfortunately had to postpone so you can still join us at Latitude, AQWA and our Adults Quiz Night. We will be sure to update our social channels and the website when these events have been rescheduled. We cant wait for what’s in store!
