I saw an enormous poster today, saying 'Discover what fascinates a child with autism' with maths and musical symbols floating around (see picture at www.dubaiautismcenter.ae/DACNews.htm )
And I thought 'no, no, you are promoting a myth, there is not always a special talent associated with autism'... (which I would have not thought before MN). Turned to the website, to read "This year, the campaign will focus on the special talents of individuals with autism" and ?we have to understand the nature of autism, and know that each individual with autism has a talent,?.
Now, as a young country, the UAE is probably a long way behind the UK in terms of disability rights and awareness generally (though there is a lot of compassion it is probably more of the patronising kind). So, is this a positive step forward (raising awareness, etc) or is it at best a sideways shuffle? am quite disappointed that what is clearly either a lot of money or a lot of goodwill is being spent on something misleading.
Anyway, if someone who has recently been in Dubai asks you what your child with an ASD's special talent is, please be tolerant, that is what they are being told by mega-posters.