Providing opportunities for inclusion for children with autism.

DNO - World Autism Awareness Day (April 2nd) 2026, with the message "Autism and Humanity - Every Life Has Its Own Value," will see the Da Nang City Rehabilitation Hospital organizing numerous activities to spread humanitarian values ​​and raise awareness in the community, in support of children with autism.

The Da Nang City Rehabilitation Hospital presents gifts to children with autism spectrum disorder on World Autism Awareness Day (April 2nd). Photo: VD

According to Dr. Nguyen Van Dung, Director of the Da Nang Rehabilitation Hospital, signs of autism often appear very early but are easily overlooked. Children may not respond when called by name, have limited eye contact, be slow to speak, or exhibit repetitive behaviors.

"The period from 18 to 36 months of age is the 'golden time' for intervention. With timely support, children can significantly improve their language and social skills," Dr. Dung emphasized.

According to observations at the Da Nang Rehabilitation Hospital, the demand for examination and intervention for children with developmental disorders is increasing. Dr. Vo Van Chien (Department of Pediatric Rehabilitation) stated that on average, the hospital receives more than 550 patients daily for inpatient, outpatient, and day care; of which more than 250 are children with various disabilities and developmental disorders requiring rehabilitation intervention.

It is noteworthy that more and more families are proactively taking their children for early assessment as soon as they detect any abnormalities, instead of waiting as before. To meet this need, the hospital is constantly upgrading its facilities, training its professional staff, and applying modern intervention methods.

Many assistive devices, such as fine motor skills and balance training kits, have been introduced, contributing to improved therapy and rehabilitation for children.

Early diagnosis and timely intervention offer the best chance of improving autism in children. (Image: VD)

The case of Ms. Pham Thi Phuc's family (Hoa Xuan ward) is a prime example. Her 2-year-old son used to worry the family because he was slow to speak, made little eye contact, almost unresponsive when called by name, and needed assistance with daily activities.

“After enrolling my child in intervention, I saw a significant change in her within the first few months. She started making more eye contact, understanding simple commands, recognizing familiar objects, and responding when called by name. Especially after about 5 months, she began calling out ‘dad, grandma, mom, sister…’ These small advancements are a great motivation for the family to continue supporting her on her journey ahead,” Ms. Phuc shared.

Beyond treatment, the City Rehabilitation Hospital is actively promoting scientific research to develop effective intervention models. Notably, a city-level research project is underway: "Research on the current state of autism spectrum disorder in children, intervention solutions, and piloting an intervention model for autistic children in Da Nang City."

Building upon this foundation, the multidisciplinary intervention model at facility 2 (No. 6 Phan Chau Trinh Street, Hai Chau Ward) has commenced operations, aiming to establish the first comprehensive early intervention center in the area.

The model focuses not only on intervening in autism spectrum disorder but also on treating co-occurring disorders such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), epilepsy, etc.

Children participate in day therapy programs on a semi-residential basis, helping to maintain continuity and improve the effectiveness of interventions. For disadvantaged cases, the hospital has appropriate support policies, creating opportunities for more children to access the services.

According to Dr. Nguyen Van Dung, early intervention not only helps children improve their communication skills and behavior but also opens up opportunities for community integration, reducing the burden on families and society. At the hospital, many children have shown significant progress after intervention, and can participate in learning and activities almost normally.

Doctors advise parents to closely monitor their children's development, especially during the first few years of life.

When abnormal signs are detected, it is necessary to take children for early examination to avoid missing the "golden time" for intervention. Because every timely attention today is the foundation for children to have more opportunities to develop, confidently integrate, and affirm their value in society.

Source: https://baodanang.vn/trao-co-hoi-hoa-nhap-cho-tre-tu-ky-3330656.html