On April 2nd, World Autism Awareness Day is celebrated, established in 2007 by the United Nations General Assembly. On this occasion, the I Lari association proposes a week of initiatives in Arco, Dro, Cavedine, Nago-Torbole, and Riva del Garda to raise public awareness about the rights of people on the autism spectrum.
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is characterized by impairments in social interaction and communication, as well as repetitive and stereotyped behavioral patterns. The severity of symptoms can vary from person to person, as well as specific needs and the need for support. In Italy, it is estimated that one in 77 children aged 7 to 9 has an autism spectrum disorder, with a higher prevalence in males.
The I Lari association was established in 2015 with the aim of helping families of neurodivergent children and young people, promoting a culture of diversity. During the autism awareness week, various events will be organized, including an information booth in Arco with brochures and books on autism. Workshops for children and presentations for adults will also be offered.
Among the planned workshops is “Edoardo 40,” an illustrated book about the story of an autistic child, which will be presented on Tuesday, April 2nd, at the Dro library. There will also be a workshop on writing with images called “The Little White Rabbit” at the Arco library on April 2nd and at the Pietramurata information point on April 4th. Additionally, there will be a neurodivergence workshop titled “Carlo at the School for Dragons, Let’s Transform into Little Fire-Breathers,” which will take place on Thursday, April 4th, at the Riva del Garda library and on Saturday, April 6th, at the Cavedine library.
During this autism awareness week, the I Lari association will also set up a collective work called “Il sogno di Franci” at the Torbole town hall. This work will be composed of ceramic flowers made by students from the “Nicolò d’Arco” middle school, Upt, and Enaip. The AtipicaMente magazine will also be presented, with articles curated by Elena Piva and authors CineGiangi, Luana PovGesba, Linda Mattivi, Jennifer Miller, Roberta Nina Bianchin, and Stefania Zamponi.
Finally, on Saturday, April 6th, a torchlight procession will be held in Padergnone in collaboration with the Oasi Valle dei Laghi association. During the event, books promoting empathy about disabilities will be read. The torchlight procession will begin at 8:15 pm.
For more information about the events and activities of the I Lari association, visit their website at https://www.associazioneilari.it.
