Autism Awareness Month

April is Autism Awareness Month, and it is a time to reflect on the fortune we have everyday to learn from our students with autism. A parent of a Joshua Early Intervention graduate wrote this poem as a thank you to the teachers, and it beautifully captures "The Difference" of our students and staff.

"The Difference"

There are kids who were issued a different toolbox at birth.

It's not the standard issue, full of shiny gadgets many of us take for granted.

Some of these kids' tools are smaller, some are bigger and some are missing.

There are also some so uniquely shaped that their purpose is a mystery.

When the toolbox looks different, there are those who think it's a life not worth living.

However, there are others who were given a very special gift in their own toolbox...

To empower these kids to use their tools, especially those that are a mystery to others.

The difference between opening the toolbox and ignoring it is... a life not worth living.

For those who are different, you're the difference.

By: Georgann Donya.

This month, we encourage you to make a difference. "Read an article, go out and hang out with some cool dudes affected by ASD, or tell someone else something you already know about it. If we can all gain a little better understanding of autism spectrum disorder, we can create more acceptance that can result in an appreciation for the unique qualities of all people." Jordan - Lead Teacher at TJS.