Did you know? April is Autism Awareness Month! For years, the National Autism Society has worked to educate and bring support to such a widespread topic, and ensure autistic children are accepted in all life settings. Rockin’ Jump is encouraging you to wear blue throughout the month to show your love!

How much do you know about autism?

  • Autism is one of the fastest growing developmental disorders in the United States.
  • On average, a family with an autistic child will pay $60,000 a year.
  • There isn’t a medical detection or cure for autism.
  • Autism affects 1 in 68 children, and boys are nearly 5 times more likely to have autism than girls.

What exactly is autism?

To put it in the simplest terms, autism is a mental condition present from early childhood that is characterized by difficulty communicating and forming relationships with other people, and using language and abstract concepts. It deeply impacts the nervous system, and can come with a wide variety of symptoms including difficulty with social interactions, obsessive interests, repetitive behaviors and more. Early recognition as well as family therapy, behavior and education therapies can help greatly.

How can I help support?

Wearing blue throughout the month is the best way to spread the word! Show your spirit with a blue You can also visit autismspeaks.org to donate and educate yourself! You can also visit their page specifically geared towards events, advocacy and volunteer events located in Maryland.