Lake Macquarie Council Promotes Awareness of Autism

Lake Macquarie families are encouraged to learn more about Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) during free workshops held at Charlestown Library in both February and June.

Dr. Sturgeon will be a guest speaker at the February workshop.

It's part of Lake Macquarie Council's 'You're Kidding Me' program, which aims to provide families with free access to health, education and family services.

As part of the program, the workshops looks to guide families on how to recognise ASD, as well as support strategies both during and after diagnosis, and how parents can use visual cues to assist children.

Council's Manager of Community Planning, John Ferguson says the workshops aim to improve families understanding, where they will also "explore what ASD looks like, how it is identified in children."

Each workshop will focus on different topics, with the February one featuring special guest Dr. Lee Sturgeon.

"[Dr. Sturgeon] will present a workshop aimed at supporting families through an ASD diagnosis" said Mr. Ferguson.

"Then, on Tuesday 28 June, families can join the team from Early Start Speech Pathology as they explain how the use of visuals can assist children with ASD."

Bookings for both workshops are essential, interested families can book online HERE.

Image courtesy of The Newcastle Herald (LINK).