26 Abr Autism: Positive News for Spanish-Speaking Countries

Autism: Positive News for Spanish-Speaking Countries

Within the framework of World Autism Awareness Day, the United Nations held a Global Virtual Event on Friday, April 8, 2022. Our Founding Director, Dr. Mapy Chavez Askins, was invited to offer her contributions to Autism in Latin America. Below a summary of the important points she shared that day.

About Alcanzando Inc.

Alcanzando is a 501(c) 3 Public Charity seeking to bring greater awareness of autism through research-based direct services to Spanish-speaking families, globally. 

We believe that inclusive education is the key to having each child with autism reach their full potential. Early detection and intervention, with every child placed in an educational inclusive setting by the age of 5, is our goal. 

Autism Today in Latin America

In Latin America, a significant number of children are not receiving services due to geographic and economic reasons. Those receiving services are in programs with low empirical support. As a recognized expert in the field, I see a compelling need for educational and health systems to increase availability of services.

We have low rates of identification and diagnosis, the result of stigma, lack of awareness and education. Low access and use of services based on geographical location and socioeconomic status compound the issue.

In 2013, I collaborated in what would become the Law for the Protection of Individuals with autism in Peru. While doing so, I witnessed important gains made in awareness and understanding of autism. But the need for up-to-date knowledge was clear. 

We know early inclusion is key for long term success. COVID-19 forced us to refocus on the importance of the home, parents and willing relatives as the best combination for skill acquisition and inclusion. This work will allow children to flourish and become productive members in our communities. And those communities will have the tools and knowledge to understand that we all belong in an inclusive world. 

Our New and Unique Approach

These last two years have taught us that there is a large number of families in need of services for their children with autism. Many more families than we had previously imagined. Alcanzando’s response to that need was the now optimized telehealth parent-mediated program. This model has become our most effective tool, allowing us to reach families irrespective of geographical distances, at reduced cost to all.

This is Alcanzando’s best, first-step toward inclusion, earlier and more effectively than possible in the past.

Dr. Mapy Chavez Askins, Founding Director, Alcanzando

Watch the entire ceremony here