Children who fall within the Autistic Spectrum Disorder may sometimes give the impression that they are mischievous or that their parents are failing to control them when, in fact, their problem lies in the difficulties they face when interacting with other people.
With support from HSBC Cares For Children Fund (HCCF), Melvin Attard and Yanika Ellul, who help run the Eden Foundation’s “STEP Teens” programme, recently attended the National Autistic Society International Conference in London, in order to update their knowledge and skills.
“The Eden Foundation helps children who fall within the Autistic Spectrum Disorder from the moment they are diagnosed until they leave school.
The “STEP Teens” programme is an essential part of this support structure and HSBC Cares For Children Fund, immediately responded to Eden Foundation’s request to provide funding so Melvin and Yanika could attend this important international conference which has been of great help in ensuring Maltese teenagers with autism get the best service possible from Eden,” said HCCF Chairman, Catherine Gonzi. Although autism was first identified in 1943, it is still a relatively unknown disability. What is certain is that it is a lifelong developmental disability that affects the way in which a person communicates and relates to people around them.
Children and adults with autism have difficulties with everyday social interaction.
Their ability to develop friendships is generally limited as is their capacity to understand other people’s emotional expression. There is also a condition called Asperger syndrome, which is a term used to describe people who are usually at the higher functioning end of the autistic spectrum.
The London Conference, which takes place every three years and attracts more than 800 delegates, gave Mr Attard and Ms Ellul the opportunity to personally meet and discuss the programmes they implement in Malta with leading experts on the subject from around the world.
They participated in various seminars on sexuality, independent living skills and social programmes.
The event concluded with a “Day for Autism” which took place in London’s Leicester Square.