World Autism Awareness Day celebration event.docVIP

World Autism Awareness Day celebration event 29th - 31st March 2009 On 18th December 2007, the United Nations General Assembly declared the celebration of the World Autism Awareness Day (WAAD) on April 2nd each year. This declaration was made to join many countries around the world that are taking into account the large numbers of children who have a diagnosis under the autism spectrum. Awareness is the key to developing programs of support, research, and communication. Macau Child Development Association (MCDA), established in 2004 as a non-profit, private organization provides services for families with children with special needs such as children with autism and children with learning and speech disorders. With a series of events held between the 29th March and 31st March, MCDA and Macau celebrated for the first time the WAAD. Dates and venues March 29th at Iao Hon Park WAAD celebration event started on the 29th March with a Carnival at Jardim Iao Hon. Despite the inclement weather the carnival at Iao Hon Park was very well attended. Hundreds were in attendance both for the opening ceremony speech and the activities. The event was covered by local Chinese television and local journalists. March 30th at St. Joseph the Worker Church On the 30th of March an Entertainment Activity was held at St. Joseph the Worker Church to provide families with autistic children supportive group discussion. The aim of this activity was also to offer the public a chance to know more about MCDA, Autism and other learning difficulties. March 31st at Centro Hospitalar Conde S. Januário The last day of this celebration event consisted in a conference held at Centro Hospitalar Conde S. Januário Auditorium, bringing together specialists and researchers from Macau and Hong Kong, who discussed a range of topics related to medical approach of Autism. (Purpose of Conference) According to MCDA’s representative, the purpose of the conference is to share current best pra