Dogwood School Students Hold Autism Acceptance Event In Smithtown

SMITHTOWN, NY — Starting on April 1, Dogwood Elementary School celebrated Autism Acceptance Week, the Smithtown School District announced.

Children have been learning about autism and seeking ways to make school even more inclusive.

Annamaria Nielsen's students wrote and shared about the different things that make them special.

Dana Braun and Amy Diemer’s class learned about autism acceptance. After listening to a story, students brainstormed ways they can be kind and include others and worked on this project together.

On April 2, students were encouraged to wear red, gold, rainbow or blue to show support and acceptance of individuals with autism. One characteristic of autism is to show incredibly focused passion for topics of interest.

On April 3, students shared their passions and interests.

On April 4, students dressed in cozy pajamas in recognition of the fact that individuals with autism often have a variety of sensory sensitivities.