Courtesy of Autism Society

Have you noticed the ribbon with colorful puzzle pieces? It may be on car bumpers, pinned to shirt collars or may show up on websites and billboards. The puzzle of autism affects more and more families each year. April is Autism Awareness month as designated by the Autism Society.

Statistics about Autism

Currently autism, also known as an ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorder), affects 1 in every 110 children. Boys are at greater risk for autism than girls. One in 70 boys will be affected with autism. The autism society estimates the lifetime costs of raising a child with autism to be between $3 million and $5 million.

Ways to Get Involved or Contribute to Autism Awareness

• Display the puzzle ribbon symbol on your car, collar, Facebook page, etc.

• Make a donation to the Autism Society (Text donation available)

• Babysit for parents of a child with autism so the parents can attend an event for autism awareness

• Connect with the “Vote for Autism” website to find out how to support legislation to help children with autism and families who have children on the autism spectrum

• Sign for “E-Speaks”, a free weekly e-mail alert providing information on autism from the organization “Autism Speaks”

• Get Informed- Read about autism and the signs of autism

• Educate yourself – Take a free on-line course, “Autism 101” offered by the Autism Society