Scribbles: 2013

Autism disorder is not a common word. Children with autism are most of time considered as mental patients or spoiled kids to their families and communities. As a result they are neglected by society and deprived of opportunity. Very few of them receive any sort of education, either in special schemes or in mainstream schools. Even fewer have the chance to continue their studies beyond the primary level. Despite the increasing number of people with disabilities, there exists, as yet, only a handful of organizations [most of them are non-governmental] working for the welfare of children with special needs. The serious inadequacy of facilities continues to compound the misery of those parents whose children require extra care and attention. In our country this negligence of government toward those children is alarming.

Right now I’m working on a thesis project which is to build a multipurpose complex for autistic children [children with autism called autistic children] in Rajshahi city providing their shelter, education, medical and recreational facilities. This project is authorized by a non-governmental organization named Tauri Foundation. The location was chosen for its urban scale and its seclusion from the city. The goal of this project is to enhance the ability of autistic children to learn through the notion of space and experience. The challenge is to organize a learning environment that allows these children to become involved members of their society, giving them an identity and purpose, while also giving them the space and attention required for a natural and healthy development. The objective is to create a space that acknowledges the necessity for the intimate relationship between teacher and student while also allowing them the space for self-discovery and exploration.

Let’s take a look at some disability statistics in Rajshahi city provided by Tauri foundation.

There are more than 450 gifted including autistic children living at 30 wards in Rajshahi Town according to 2006 census. At present this figure will be around 1000 in Rajshahi City Corporation Area. Considering this ratio, we have seen insufficient activities to provide education, training, rehabilitation for them [gifted children] . .

Before proceeding the design considerations and phases there are some facts to be described first about the Autism disorder and Autistic children. On this purpose I'm showing some FAQ's answers from my literature review.

What is Autism?

Autism is a neurological disorder that causes impairments in communication, ability to learn, and social relatedness. Autism usually strikes during the first three years of a child's life. Parents often tell of a normal talkative child who suddenly seems to disappear before their eyes.

What is a "spectrum disorder"?

Autism is a spectrum disorder where symptoms and characteristics can present themselves in a wide variety of combinations, from mild to severe and in any combination. A high functioning individual with autism might simply seem eccentric, a loner. More severely affected individuals may hardly communicate and prefer to function primarily in "their own world". Most individuals fall in the middle of the spectrum.

What are the known statistics of Autism: incidence, cost and ratio?

Autism is more common than previously believed--occurring in 1 in every 500 births. (Centers for Disease Controls and Prevention 1997). It is the third most common developmental disorder. It is four times more common in boys than girls.

What are early signs of autism?

Parents and relatives should be concerned about their kid if they notice any of the following developmental delays or behavioral problems and discuss concerns with their kid’s pediatrician to obtain appropriate referrals for evaluation:

lack of or delay in development of spoken language .
repetitive use of language and/or motor mannerisms (e.g., hand-flapping, twirling objects).
little or no eye contact.
lack of interest in peer relationships.
lack of spontaneous or make-believe play.
persistent fixation on parts of objects.

It's important to distinguish between normal children and those who are suffering from AUTISM disorder...

Here are some example given to keep in mind...

Can Autism Be Cured?

Autism is said to be a condition which cannot be cured however there are many reported cases of children / person recovering from the classic symptoms of Autism. Recovery can mean different things for different people, however my definition of recovery from Autism would be if a person who has been diagnosed with an Autism Spectrum Disorder can be independent and function in our society as we know it. Click on the link to find out more about recovery from Autism .

What are common myths about autism spectrum disorders?

Myth #1: All individuals with autism spectrum disorders avoid eye contact and social contact.

People with autism spectrum disorders are a diverse group, so it is difficult to use words such as “all” or “every” when describing those with the syndrome. Although social difficulties are a hallmark of the disorder, many individuals with autism spectrum disorders display some level of social interest and make some attempt to initiate social interactions on a frequent basis. Many individuals with autism spectrum disorders display affection and demonstrate a preference for social activities over solitary pursuits.

Myth #2: People with autism spectrum disorders possess extraordinary skills or talents, e.g., are able to memorize facts, complete complex mental calculations or compose music.

The vast majority of people diagnosed with autism spectrum disorders do not possess genius abilities like the character depicted in the popular movie Rainman or novel "Ke Kotha Koy" written by Humayun Ahmed. However, most individuals with autism spectrum disorders display uneven or scattered skill development. As a result, some skills may stand out in relation to other skills.

Myth #3: Autism spectrum disorders are caused by cold, distant parenting.

Although questions remain about the causes of autism spectrum disorders, it has been empirically demonstrated that parents of children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorders do not differ from parents of typical children. It is now generally accepted that autism spectrum disorders is neurological in origin and that children are born with the syndrome.