More to learn about autism in China
by Patricia
I have blogged before about how lucky I am to get to work internationally. My good fortune continues — I head back to China today for two weeks. The Five Project has invited me to come and work with them to provide teacher training.
The Five Project and its team members have been promoting autism awareness and professional skill development in China since 1992. Their two decades of work have resulted in wonderful relationship building and knowledge, which all makes my work a lot easier!
We’ll be heading to Anshan this trip, working again at a school for young children with autism. One of the interesting components of treatment for children with autism in China is that in most environments parents attend the program with their child. This provides a great opportunity to help parents learn about effective treatment, but it can also create challenges when it comes to independence. When a parent is always there to help, it can be difficult to learn to do things for yourself.
Parents attending the program with their child is just one example of the many, many unique aspects of working in another culture. I feel a little bit more prepared this time, having already had an opportunity to work in China once before. But I know this trip is sure to be full of lots of learning, especially on my part. It is a huge privilege to work with the Five Project. Stay tuned to the Easter Seals and autism blog — I’ll keep you posted on the happenings in Anshan during my trip!