APRIL IS NATIONAL AUTISM AWARENESS MONTH

In honor of National Autism Awareness Month, we wanted to highlight the groundbreaking autism research being performed at the Center for Autism and Developmental Disabilities, a joint program between UT Southwestern Medical Center, Children’s Health, and the Callier Center for Communication Disorders at UT Dallas.

A decade ago, Dallas scientists created the first animal model of autism with genetically-altered mice.

A decade ago, Dallas scientists created the first animal model of autism with genetically-altered mice. The mouse model has allowed researchers to better understand how the brain functions in autistic humans.

CLINICAL TRIAL FOR FDA-APPROVED DRUG

In the next couple of years, a clinical trial will begin for an FDA-approved drug that could help some patients with autism, according to a report by NBCDFW.

Autism Awareness Week: Dallas Scientists Make Gains in Autism Research | www.nbcdfw.com

Here are some autism awareness events happening this month:

Sensory Friendly Day — 8 to 11 a.m. Sunday at the Dallas Zoo, 650 S. R.L. Thornton Fwy. During its sensory-friendly day, the zoo will make sound adjustments and offer quiet zones with darker lighting, bean bags, and blankets. There will also be a special sensory activity tour featuring primates, reptiles, and invertebrates. Pre-sale tickets for early entrance at 8 a.m.are sold out, but attendees who didn’t pre-register are welcome to come beginning at 9 a.m. Cost is $5 or free for zoo members. To learn more, visit dallaszoo.com.

Autism Awareness Family Celebrations — 9 to 11 a.m. April 30 at the Dallas Museum of Art, 1717 N. Harwood St. The museum will open early for children with autism and their families to explore the exhibits. This monthly event also offers art-making activities,  an interactive performance with a music therapist and other experiences in the gallery. The event is free, but registration is required. To learn more, visit dma.org.

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