Every year on April 2nd, the world observes World Autism Awareness Day, established by the United Nations General Assembly in 2007.

To enhance public understanding of autism and support individuals with autism spectrum disorders, a roundtable discussion titled “Children with Special Needs in Today’s Reality” was held at the Municipal Rehabilitation Center for Individuals with Psychophysical Disabilities.

Attending the discussion were: the Director of the Department of Labor and Social Policy of the Odesa City Council, Olena Kytaienska, heads of district social protection departments, and employees of the municipal institutions under the Department.

Experts from the center shared their experiences working with children on the autism spectrum, discussing communication techniques and interaction with them and their families; they also talked about challenges related to motor control, hydrotherapy, and cognitive function development in preschool-aged children.

Participants also witnessed an open music session titled “Developing Musical Skills in Children with ASD of Various Age Groups.”

At the conclusion of the roundtable, attendees expressed their gratitude for the organization of the event and suggested holding an international conference in Odesa, involving specialists from education, science, and medicine.