Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, April 3, 2025, Kolkata: World Autism Awareness Day, observed annually on April 2nd, was marked this year with a special awareness camp in Uttarpara, Hooghly district, aimed at educating parents and dispelling misconceptions about autism. The event brought together distinguished professionals, parents, and community members, all united in the mission to foster a deeper understanding of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and promote early intervention.
Dr. Md. Sahidul Arefin, a renowned Speech-Language Pathologist, addressed the gathering, emphasizing that autism is not a disease but rather a unique way of perceiving the world. “Autism is simply a different way of experiencing life. However, without timely intervention, these differences can create challenges in communication and social interaction,” he explained.
Dr. Arefin also shed light on the emotional struggles faced by parents of autistic children, who often endure discouraging remarks from society. “Many parents approach us in distress, having been told that their child will never learn or communicate. But modern research has proven otherwise. With effective therapies and the right support, children on the autism spectrum can thrive. It is crucial to break free from superstitions and seek professional help,” he urged.
Highlighting the importance of early intervention, he stated that autism, when identified between the ages of 3 to 5, can be managed effectively through consistent speech therapy. “The brain’s neuroplasticity is at its peak during early childhood. Many non-verbal children start speaking meaningfully within months of therapy. Delays in intervention result in missed opportunities for improvement,” he said.
Organizer Tarun Dasgupta underscored the necessity of inclusive education, advocating for autism-friendly schools, reduced screen time for young children, specialized training for Anganwadi workers, and increased accessibility to therapy services, particularly for rural and low-income families.
The awareness camp served as a crucial platform for empowering parents with knowledge, resources, and hope, reinforcing the message that autism is not a barrier to success but a different way of learning and growing.