smiling child standing on bubble tubeThe eleventh annual World Autism Awareness Day is April 2, 2018.  Joined by the international community, hundreds of thousands of landmarks, buildings, homes and communities around the world, light blue in recognition of people living with autism. Autism-friendly events and educational activities take place all month to increase understanding and acceptance and foster worldwide support. Our friends at the Annapolis Valley Chapter of Autism Nova Scotia will be celebrating with a flag raising in Kentville on April 4.

Here at AVRL we welcome families living with autism. We’ve put together a booklist and some resources here.

We hope you find some of these helpful.  And please know that you are always welcome in our libraries. If we can help make your visit easier, just ask and we will see what we can do! You may want to read this article before bringing your child to the library. At our Berwick branch, we have a LEGO panel and a tactile wall in the children’s area, and a small bubble wall in the teen area. Our Kentville branch has a Snoezelen bubble tube. These elements may help your child feel more comfortable in the library.

Below are some articles that have been recommended by an educator who works with people of all ages who have autism.  tactile wall in library
15 Behavior Strategies for Children on the Autism Spectrum

How to Create a Backyard Sanctuary for Kids with Disabilities

For Educators: Strategies for Working With Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder

Helping Asperger’s Teens To Survive and Thrive: 15 Key Steps

Creating a Home Atmosphere of Solitude to Help Cope with Adult Autism