World Autism Awareness Day 2025:

My parenting journey to help Marcelino thrive.

World Autism Awareness Day is observed on April 2nd each year. This day aims to raise awareness about autism. Established by the United Nations in 2007, it also advocates for understanding, acceptance, and inclusion of individuals with autism around the globe.

The theme for World Autism Awareness Day 2025 is "Advancing Neurodiversity and the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)." This theme highlights the connection between neurodiversity and global sustainability initiatives, demonstrating how inclusive policies and practices can foster positive changes for autistic individuals around the world and aid in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The day also highlights the need for early diagnosis and intervention, which can significantly improve the quality of life for autistic individuals.

Autism, or Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), is a neurodevelopmental condition characterized by persistent challenges in social communication and interaction, along with restricted or repetitive behaviors, interests, or activities. It's a spectrum, meaning the way it manifests varies greatly from person to person.

On World Autism Awareness Day 2025, I have had to reflect on my journey as a parent to an autistic boy child named Marcelino(7) ,and here below, I relay my experiences in a Q&A format.

What were your initial reactions or emotions when you first leaned about your child’s autism diagnosis? How did you and your family cope with this news?

Denial at first. Nothing of the sort had been heard of in my circles and as I tried to research around our family history, nothing near it was getting to terms. But then again, we started connecting the dots of how our son’s behavior has since he was born. There are certain milestones a baby is expected to hit at a particular age, and the mothers know each and every step of their babies’ growth, ticking off the calendar as days and months and years pass by.

Mercelino was acting to the contrary .At 4,he was unable to express himself,couldn’t talk,as in make short phrases,or sentences,reading in class was hard for him,he was shy,not able to keep a direct eye contact,always preffering to be alone,very aggressive and restless and easily irritated by noise.A back bencher of sorts.In his own world.

But we still weren’t accepting it in whole. We waited on and consulted the elders, tried a few local techniques like having the boy eat from a bird’s nest.Yes,those African traditions that always worked for children with delayed speech.While there's no scientific evidence suggesting that eating from a bird’s nest can directly correct speech problems, some cultures believe it can improve voice and overall health.

We were desperate for a solution.

What are some of the most significant challenges you have faced as a parent of an autistic child ,and how have you navigated them through?

Not many shall understand and appreciate the behavior of your boy.You see,for a boy who is restless, ever on the move,not wanting to sit down and concentrate on one thing like the peers, being picky at all times,does surely irritate.

You’re always worried what steps he will take when not in your vicinity.The other parents are probably looking at him and judging him of not having manners. That probably his parents over pamper him and spare the rod.

There are times we never wanted to visit anywhere,with him,because we were “selfish” and thinking,”“How shall we control Marcelino?”. “He ‘s going to disturb other people while we are out”. Very depressing thoughts, if I may say. To deny a child his freedom like the rest because you’re worried he’s going to disturb other people?That was always the motivation for us to hold the situation by the bull’s horns.

Were you influenced by stigma and shame when coming to terms with your child’s autistic diagnosis?If,yes,how did you manage to move past it?

No shame whatsoever.

You cannot be ashamed of your very own.And to add,he isn’t in a spectrum that is very worrying .You see,when growing up,I used to love reading and reflecting at the wording in my parents’ living room that went,"I used to cry when I had no shoes,untill I met someone with no feet". And the moment we started acknowledging and learning more about the diagnosis and interacting with teachers,therapists,doctors,other parents,we realized that there is nothing like shame when it comes to our very own blood.

And this is what this awareness is about. We need to make the children thrive like the normal ones, something that all and sundry need to have hands on deck.

Like I earlier on stated, It's a spectrum, meaning the way it manifests varies greatly from person to person.

Can you help shed light on the lesser known challenges faced by parents of children with autism when it comes to raising awareness among others?

Sibling awareness is paramount, because this is the first line of acceptance .

For example,our boy has a big sister aged 12.Because the sister is very bright and very competitive and all,she always pestered the brother to move at her pace.This irritated the boy and he lost confidence in even associating with the sister. He always felt inferior around her ,and yet she is the boy’s comfort whenever they are away from home and visiting other places.So,we had to always go with the sister to all our therapy sessions,for her to understand and appreciate that her brother isn’t at the same pace with her and therefore the handling should be sensitive.

Another instance, the younger cousin, teased him and went and told the mother while laughing ,that “Marcelino can’t talk". The mum did give him a beating for laughing at the condition of his cousin. Although ,I wouldn’t have beaten my nephew, as his laughing at the brother was out of sheer child ignorance of the situation, may be not sparing the rod could improve on the other siblings appreciating and understanding the condition of brother.

The other hurdle that we have managed to overcome over seven years, is having a house helper who understands the situation at hand.She’s been such a blessing to this boy and the boy recognizes her presence. In this contemporary world of house helpers’ stress, contracting one with the emotional intelligence to cope up with such children is a big challenge.

What advice would you give to other parents who are raising autistic children,based on your own experiences and learnings?

Be patient and positive

Maintaining a positive attitude can help children with autism feel more comfortable and confident. Celebrate small successes, praise them for their behaviours, find ways to reward them and recognize that progress may take time.

Seek support

Connect with other parents, caregivers, and family members for shared experiences, advice and emotional support. Join a support group which will help you meet other parents dealing with similar challenges. Also, ask for help whenever needed.

Establish a routine

Many children with autism like routines. Consistent routines can reduce anxiety and help your child feel more secure. It will also make new skills and behaviors easier.

Encourage social skills

Find opportunities for your child to engage with peers in different environments. Take your child along for everyday activities. It may help them get used to the world around them.

Take your time

While determining what works best for your child, you will probably encounter various techniques, treatments, and approaches. Take your time and stay positive during the process. Do not feel disheartened if a specific approach doesn't yield the desired results.

World Autism Awareness Day also celebrates unique strengths of individuals with autism. It serves as a reminder for society to build an environment where autistic individuals can lead happy lives. It encourages society to learn more about the condition, dispel myths, and combat stigma.