[author_info]Emily Rockwell has been a teacher for the Delaware Autism Program at the Brennen School for the past four years. She was named Brennen’s “Teacher of the Year” 2010-2011.[/author_info]

Monday April 2nd is the 3rd World Autism Awareness day. The day is being recognized by the campaign “Light it Up Blue” to shine a light on Autism. Today the prevalence rate of Autism is 1 in 88 children.  Autism is developmental disorder with varying degrees of difficulty with social interaction,communication and behavior. Sponsored by Autism Speaks, Light it up Blue draws awareness to the fastest growing development disability. Included are several national landmarks, who will light it up Blue on Monday, included is Sydney Opera House and Rockefeller Plaza. People are encouraged to pledge to Light it up Blue at Lightitupblue.org. or through Autism Speaks.  Autism Speaks is the world’s leading autism science and advocacy organization.

If you’re wondering where you can pick up some blue lights try Home Depot.  The Home Depot Sells Blue Defiant LED Lanterns and Light Bulbs throughout North America to Support Autism Speaks’ Light It Up Blue Initiative.

Click here for more more information about Light it up Blue.

In addition, the Walk for Autism will be held at Bellevue State Park on April 21st and Cape Henolopen State Park on April 22nd. More information can be found at delautism.org. 

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