Show your support for Autism Cook Islands (ACI) and celebrate Blue Day tomorrow Thursday 6 April by wearing something blue and making a donation.

The Best Blue Day Photo from any team, group, business or organisation will win morning tea from the Autism Cook Islands crew.

Autism, or autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a life-long development disorder affecting social skills, language and communication skills and flexibility with thinking.

We know that there is not one autism but many types, says ACI’s Programme Manager Kat Jensen.

“The term “spectrum” reflects the wide variation in challenges and strengths possessed by each person with autism.

“Autism has no single, known cause. Signs tend to appear between two - three years of age.

“With early intervention and support we can help them to live a full life, cope with the world around them and build on their strengths,” Jensen said.

Donations will support the group’s current initiatives and community programmes which include: Social Confidence Through Play - Badminton, Lego Masters, ‘Learn to Swim’ swimming lessons; Autism Hub – a space they call home and is the base for all their work; Transition Programme – From school to employment for students with autism; 26 Family’s currently attending programmes

The Autism Blue Day Booth will be set up across the road from the police station for Merchandise/Donations today Wednesday 5 April from 11am-2pm and tomorrow Thursday from 9am-3pm.

Contact kat@autismcookislands.org for more T-Shirt Orders for $25 each from size S-3XL and information packs.

Kids are also welcome to join the colouring competition.

Deck out in blue tomorrow and don’t forget to tag @autismcookislands