Inclusion: Teach Awareness Strive

Inclusion: Teach Awareness Strive

If we start promoting and teaching awareness on Autism to the general public and in our school systems then we will build the foundation for creating a culture that practices full inclusion. When I talk about “inclusion” I mean appreciating diversity and loving what makes each of us different and unique. Inclusion makes everyone feel welcome and free of discrimination. Our hope for the UAE is to continue to celebrate and appreciate differences so that we can create a culture for People of Determination and their families to feel a sense of belonging and have a positive environment in the community and at school. Below are some tips on how we can raise awareness to the public with the end goal of creating a fully inclusive society in the UAE.
• There could also be posters around public areas that informs public about what is Autism and how citizens could cooperate with their situations
• There should also be available general trainings for the public to be educated on Autism
• There could also be informative posters around public transports for the people to easily refer to
• The government could maximize the LCD screens around the airport by broadcasting friendly & short reminders for the public in respect to people/kids of determination. Example: “Please refrain from producing loud or disturbing sounds”, “Please don’t stare if you see a meltdown” etc.
• Set up VIP lanes for people/kids of determination to refrain them from experiencing long waits and cues in order to prevent meltdowns and therefore less attention given from the general population
• In schools, Autism awareness training should start at a young age where they learn about difference in people and that being different is okay
• Teaching and promoting a “buddy system” helping neurotypical students build social network with a student of determination
• Teaching parents to encourage their child at a young age to include a student of determination for play dates and birthday parties
• Creating a course or lesson plan from KG onwards regarding acceptance, inclusion, what Autism is and how we can help
• Schools should continue to liaison with experts in the field to help create an environment that would help support their learning
Overall, the more we talk about it the more we raise awareness the more we will create a culture of full inclusion in the UAE.
Inas Ktaech
Clinical Director/BCBA of DDY

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