{"id":33180,"date":"2025-04-02T04:40:00","date_gmt":"2025-04-02T04:40:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.fide.com\/?p=33180"},"modified":"2025-04-02T15:28:32","modified_gmt":"2025-04-02T15:28:32","slug":"autism-awareness-understanding-and-supporting-the-spectrum-globally","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.fide.com\/autism-awareness-understanding-and-supporting-the-spectrum-globally\/","title":{"rendered":"Autism awareness: Understanding and supporting the spectrum globally"},"content":{"rendered":"\t\t
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Every April world celebrates World Autism Month, beginning with the United Nations-sanctioned World Autism Awareness Day on April 2.<\/p>

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) affects millions of children worldwide across all racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic groups and is nearly four times more common in boys than in girls. The condition presents significant challenges for parents, who often face limited access to care, a lack of treatment options, and the stigma associated with autism. However, thanks to parental advocacy and advances in scientific research, autism is now much better understood.<\/p>

Autism varies greatly from person to person\u2014no two individuals with autism are alike, which is why it is referred to as a spectrum<\/strong>. Common characteristics include difficulties with verbal and non-verbal communication, social interactions, and leisure or play activities.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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\u201cWith globally estimated prevalence of about 1 in 100 children, some countries report higher rates, with approximately 1 per 100,000 people. Early diagnosis and intervention are key to improving outcomes for individuals with autism,\u201d shares Ala Mishchanka<\/strong>, special needs educational assistant, co-author of the Infinite chess Handbook (Canada).\u00a0<\/p>

Chess as a tool for inclusion<\/strong><\/p>

At Infinite Chess, we believe in the power of chess to foster inclusion, support, and growth for everyone, especially those on the autism spectrum.<\/p>

\u201cYou might have learned that autism is not a disability; it is a special ability. But how to make use of it? And our answer would be to use chess as a discipline that might not only give enjoyment, satisfaction and pleasure to these special kids but also improve their physical and mental wellbeing,\u201d noted Deputy Chair of FIDE Management Board and Infinite Chess project Supervisor\u00a0Dana\u00a0Reizniece<\/strong>.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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Creating supportive environments for individuals with autism involves understanding their unique needs and strengths. Chess offers numerous benefits\u2014it provides a structured environment that helps improve focus, enhances cognitive skills, and promotes social interaction.<\/p>

\u201cSome sports can be challenging for kids with autism spectrum; that\u2019s why it is important to help children choose sports they are likely to enjoy and excel at\u201d, says Maria Tamkovich<\/strong>, Infinite Chess project coordinator. \u201cBut not every sport requires high-level communication and cooperation and could be a great match for children with autism. Chess is definitely one of them.\u201d<\/p>

Here are some ways chess can be particularly beneficial:<\/p>