A two-day National Workshop on Acceptance of People with Neurodiversity was organized by Blooming Dale, Kolkata on 8 and 9 September, 2023 at DAV, Campus-2, Chandrasekharpur. Our Principal, Mathew Thomas was a Guest of Honour and two of the teachers attended the programme.

The basic objective of the workshop was to make the teachers and all other stakeholders  aware that children with neurodiversity are an integral part of our society and not separate entities.  “We are all different, but acceptance makes us one.”

In his speech, the Principal dwelt on the history of autism awareness and its gradual transition to acceptance. He also spoke on the magnitude of Autism Spectrum Disorder and lack of support from the general public.

“Awareness versus Acceptance” has been a debate within the autism community for many years. Awareness was once a necessity due to the lack of available information regarding autism, but many people are now becoming more informed and embracing neurodiversity. As the general public’s understanding of autism evolved, the term “autism awareness” gradually became less relevant in the eyes of some. This shift in perception has led advocates to emphasize acceptance and inclusivity.

The main takeaway for the participants who attended the workshop was acceptance and inclusion of neurodivergent children in the mainstream so that they can live their best lives.