Every year on April 2nd, the world observes World Autism Awareness Day, established by the UN in 2007. 

To raise public awareness and understanding of autism and support individuals with autism spectrum disorders, a round table titled «Children with Special Needs in Today’s World» was held at the Municipal Institution «Rehabilitation Center for Individuals with Psychophysical Disabilities». 

Participants included: the director of the Department of Labor and Social Policy of the Odesa City Council, Olena Kytainska, heads of district social protection departments, and social services staff.

Center specialists shared their experiences working with children with autism, discussed communication strategies with these children and their parents, and addressed challenges in motor control and cognitive development in preschool children with ASD. 

Attendees also enjoyed an open music lesson titled «Musical Development of Children with ASD across Various Age Groups».

At the end of the round table, participants expressed their gratitude for the event organization and insightful presentations, and proposed to host an international conference on this topic in Odesa, involving professionals from related fields: educators, researchers, and healthcare providers.