Health | Autism cases in need of help rise

The Macau Autism Association (MAA) held the Autism Carnival 2016 on Saturday, an event where parents from Hong Kong and Taiwan shared with each other their experiences of taking care of children with autism.
The MAA indicated that an increasing number of families are seeking the association’s help. Since 2012, the organization has received more than 30 requests for assistance.
Chan Sio Man, director of the MAA, told the Times that parents normally noticed their children acting differently when they were about to enroll in schools, noting that “[this occurs] mostly during January and February, when the kids need to take the kindergarten entrance tests. They are typically aged two-and-a-half to three-and-a-half years old.” Chan also mentioned that some kids are reported to experience learning difficulties, or with abnormal crying and speech impediments when they get to primary school.
Chan informed the Times that there are three experts in autism, as well as in mental health and physical therapy, currently volunteering with the association to provide consultation and assistance.
The MAA has established various programs, including musical training and art classes, to help children with these special needs. “We have developed chat groups to give suggestions to the parents. Moreover, we organize activities where they can learn special communication skills and be given information on the latest worldwide autism-related developments,” Chan explained.  Staff reporter