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SENIA International positions our community members at the centre of inquiry and ensures decision-making processes are informed by an ongoing and open dialogue. 

These conversations highlight the collaborative potential of learning environments when we come together in a meaningful way, through collaboration. Providing opportunities for an open, transparent dialogue results in all parties feeling seen, heard and valued, and in the end it’s the connection and compassion formed through those healthy relationships that creates successful teaching and learning outcomes.

Read This Article: Promoting Understanding of Neurodivergence and Uniting Through Activities

Parent, Student and Head of School Panels

Watch our student, parents, and administrators panel for a limited time this week. One of the many highlights if you sign up for our SENIA Virtual Conference – Unifying Voices of Inclusion. 

What is Autism Acceptance Week?

Autism Acceptance Week plays a crucial role in raising awareness and promoting acceptance of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). It’s an opportunity to educate people about the challenges individuals with autism face, as well as their unique strengths and abilities. By shifting the focus from mere awareness to acceptance, the goal is to foster an inclusive society where autistic individuals are valued and supported.

Promoting autism acceptance within schools is particularly important as it provides an environment where autistic students and educators can thrive alongside their peers. Educating students, teachers, and staff about autism helps create a culture of understanding and empathy. It encourages inclusivity and empowers autistic individuals to fully participate in school activities and social interactions.

What is Autism?

Autism, also known as autism spectrum disorder (ASD), is a complex neurodevelopmental condition characterized by challenges with social interaction, communication, and repetitive behaviors. It is referred to as a spectrum disorder because it can manifest in a wide range of symptoms and severity levels, varying from person to person. Just like every neurotypical individual possesses their own distinct traits and characteristics, each person on the autism spectrum is also unique. Forming assumptions about an autistic individual’s abilities, interests, or traits solely based on their autism diagnosis is both incorrect and detrimental.

The exact cause of autism is not fully understood, but it is believed to involve a combination of genetic and environmental factors. There is no single known cause, and autism is not caused by vaccines or parenting practices.

Early intervention, therapies, and support services play a crucial role in enhancing outcomes for autistic individuals. Autism, along with other forms of neurodiversity, represents a natural spectrum of human diversity and should not be perceived as a condition necessitating a cure. Nevertheless, timely identification and appropriate assistance, such as speech therapy, can greatly benefit autistic people. 

Source: https://laconciergepsychologist.com/blog/what-is-the-autism-spectrum/

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March 21 is World Down Syndrome Day and SENIA International (Special Education Network & Inclusion Association), wants to help our local and regional chapters to celebrate this event. Check out the resources below to help you spread the word in your respective schools and local communities. 

During the week of Mar 21 wear your most colorful and fun socks to represent the extra chromosome that people with Down Syndrome have and help raise awareness about Down Syndrome.

What is Down syndrome and how do you explain it to your kids?

First, what is a chromosome? A chromosome is a threadlike structure of nucleic acids and proteins found in the nucleus of most living cells, carrying genetic information in the form of genes. On average the human body comprises 30 – 40 trillion cells.

Down Syndrome is a genetic condition where a person is born with an extra copy of chromosome 21 (hence why we celebrate World Down Syndrome Day on Mar 21. It stands for three copies of chromosome 21). This additional genetic material changes the course of development and causes the characteristics associated with Down Syndrome.

What’s with the socks though?

Many would say that chromosomes look like funky socks! Because of the shape of the chromosome and because people with Down Syndrome have an extra one, cool fun socks have become the icon of World Down Syndrome Day around the world.

How can you show your support?

Encourage your kids to wear colorful socks this week and if anyone asks about their socks, they can tell them, “I’m wearing them to raise awareness of Down Syndrome.”

So dig out those cool socks and wear them loud and proud. Post your photos on social media and don’t forget to include the hashtags:

#SENIAcommunity

#WDSD2023 

#LotsOfSocks

#WorldDownSyndromeDay

What’s with the socks though?

Many would say that chromosomes look like funky socks! Because of the shape of the chromosome and because people with Down Syndrome have an extra one, cool fun socks have become the icon of World Down Syndrome Day around the world.


Job Board

Browse job openings from SENIA member schools.  

SENIA member schools are welcome to complete the form and have their opening added.

Leadership Team