Many parents are raising children with a challenge of ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) without knowing it. So said Zanele Mothibeli during autism awareness campaign held in Zamdela, Sasolburg, this past weekend.
Mothibeli was the keynote speaker at the campaign organised by Tshepiso Hope Bheka eThembeni organisation to mark Autism day.
The purpose of the campaign according to Sister Boss from Tshepiso Hope Bheka eThembeni was to raise awareness to parents and families about Autism disorder.
“Many parents are facing this challenge of Autism affecting their children without knowing, and have no idea on what to do,” said Mothibeli.
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a developmental disability caused by differences in the brain. People with ASD often have problems with social communication and interaction, and restricted or repetitive behaviours or interests. People with ASD may also have different ways of learning, moving, or paying attention.
This year the theme for World Autism Awareness Day 2023 is “Transforming the narrative: Contributions at home, at work, in the arts and in policymaking.”
The campaign was joined by various stakeholders including amongst them Social Workers, SAPS, His royal majesty-King Micheal Maliele, learners and teachers from various school as well as parents of children affected by Autism disorder and Founder of hope foundation and campaigns Lerato Charity Khauoe.
Parents were advised on the signs of Autism and what to do. Some of the signs of Autism disorder include children who are too hyperactive, children who cannot pay attention to what he or she is doing, interrupting other learners and children, not paying attention when speaking to.
A mother of children living with autism, Makatlego Lenkoane, said her life has changed since her children were affected. “My life has changed I’m always pained by the situation of my children and not knowing why they behave differently. I have to be constantly looking after them. I cannot attend to many things she used to such as Church, funerals and family gatherings.
“I also get complaints about the behaviour of my children and accused of not raising them properly, but today I am relieved and thanks to Tshepiso Hope Bheka eThembeni for providing us with this valuable information,” she said.
Social worker Ntombizodwa Mothibelidealing, who deals with mental health, said they check signs from children in order to perform an assessment. She said some signs can be noticed from children who are six months old to six years of age.
