Autism Awareness

Autism Awareness and Acceptance
Welcome to the OCDSB’s Autism Awareness and Acceptance page. As you read on, please note we will interchangeably use identity-first language such as “autistic students”, in combination with phrasing such as “students with autism”, “ASD”, or “across the spectrum”, to be as inclusive as possible of everyone’s rights and respect to identity. 

Autism is a neurodevelopmental condition that occurs in all racial, ethnic, socio-economic and gender identity groups and affects the way people interact and communicate with those around them. Each autistic individual has their own strengths, needs and gifts.

Our Autism Awareness and Acceptance emblem represents growth, transformation, belonging, and the infinite spectrum of diversity within our District.

  • The Butterfly represents diversity, embracing change, and the many transitions students experience along their learning journey at school. This symbol reflects their lived experiences, resiliency, and aspirations
  • The Infinity Rainbow symbolizes the vast spectrum of neurodiversity. It represents the richness and diversity of experiences, perspectives, and talents within the autism community, recognizing the different ways of thinking and processing information.

Events and Dates of Significance

The OCDSB recognizes Canada’s Autism Awareness Month in October, World Autism Awareness Month in April, and World Autism Awareness Day on April 2nd. Resources are shared on our Equity-Based Dates of Significance webpage

We also host events and programming throughout the year. Our next event is:

swOCDSB Speaker Series: Autistically Thriving – An Evening with Judy Endow

Date: Thursday, April 4, 2024
Time: 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. 

Learn more and register

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Programs

  • AccessOAP helps children, youth, and their families access programs and services that meet their specific needs. If you have questions, email [email protected] or call 1-833-425-2445 (Monday-Friday - 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.).
  • Entry to School is an OAP-funded program that helps autistic children prepare to start kindergarten or Grade 1. It provides a six-month group-based, skill-building program, followed by student-specific transition services for up to six months. We work in collaboration with the Entry to School Program to support students’ successful transition to school.
  • CHEO Urgent Response Services, provided by the Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario, is a resource for families where they can refer themselves, or be referred by a clinician, care coordinator or other relevant professional when their child is experiencing new or worsening high-risk behaviors.

Resources

Learn About Autism

Resources to Support Autistic Individuals
Video Library
Activities for Families
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