They live in an isolated loneliness, their eyes unwilling to hold a person's gaze, their lovely voices perpetually silent, the hustle and bustle of the world around them lost on their ears. Like the most remote stars in the Milky Way, they flicker in the distance, alone in their silence. They are children with autism.
In recent years, autism has become a world issue – there is no cure, and its causes is still unclear. The number of autistic patients across the globe has now reached 67 million. According to an estimate by the China Disabled Persons’ Federation, China alone is home to nearly 60 million preschool age autistic children, and the number of children diagnosed with autism each year is on the rise. In an effort to improve understanding of the debilitating disorder, from 2008, the United Nations General Assembly unanimously declared April 2 ‘World Autism Awareness Day.’
With its core values of ‘compassion,’ ‘integrity,’ and ‘balance,’ Pao School has continued to dedicated itself to helping those less fortunate. On April 1, to show their support for children with autism, Pao School’s swim team attended a special charity event in Hongqiao, with the goal of teaching autistic children to swim. Using group activities and play, Pao School’s students helped autistic children overcome their fear of water, train body and mind, and most of all, have fun!
Initially, students were unsure of how they would approach their task, but over time, they were able to put aside their reservations and anxiety, fully committing themselves to teaching and demonstrating swimming skills they had learned. Amidst the joy and laughter, each student learned to show concern for others and whole-heartedly hopes that each autistic child, with the care and support of the community, will be able to make their way into the world and thrive.
All life is equal, and every individual is unique. It is precisely our uniqueness that gives life its infinitely many changes, understanding and acceptance, all of which will allow autistic children to live life free from judgement. This philosophy is in line with Pao School’s pursuit of ‘balance.’ This event was not only the school’s response to World Autism Awareness Day – it was also a way to bring greater awareness to their community at large. The more we show our love every day, open our minds and share knowledge, the more likely we will be able to change the fate of children stricken with autism.
Pao School’s annual ‘Founder’s Challenge’ competition will be launching during Dragon Boat festival. This year, Pao School will hold a ‘Swim for Love’ competition in honour of the athletes from organisations for children with autism: Starwalker swim team and Rainbow Mama Workshop. The competition will give Pao School students the chance to not only raise funds for charity and show their support but also experience the joy of sports, challenge themselves and build strength and confidence.
This June, Pao School will swim and challenge the world for change!
