Six schools to open their playgrounds to autistic children

Five primary schools in Malta and one in Gozo will open their playgrounds to autistic children during the weekend, Michelle Muscat announced this morning. 

Addressing a press conference on behalf of Autism Parents Association, the PM’s wife said this was the next step after this project was introduced this summer in St Paul’s Bay primary school.

“There’s lack of awareness about autism behaviour. These children need safe playgrounds and open spaces where they can spend their time with some liberty and independence. This will also provide the parents with peace of mind since their children will be in a safe environment,” Muscat said.

People with autism have issues with non-verbal communication and a wide range of social interactions and activities. Experts believe that Autism presents itself during the first three years of a person's life.

The primary schools, chosen by the same association, are the primary schools of Dingli, Marsaxlokk, Mġarr, Attard, Fgura and Sannat Gozo. Muscat encouraged Gozitan families to take part in this programme since current participation in Gozo was low.

The playgrounds will open on Fridays between 5.30pm and 8.30pm, Saturdays between 2pm and 5pm, and on Sundays and public holidays between 10am and 5pm. This initiative is open to children of all ages and it will be free of charge.

Michelle Muscat, who serves as Honorary Chairperson of the association, also announced that the Christmas cards sent by the Prime Minister will be designed by autistic children. Unlike previous years, there will be a set of six Christmas cards that will be chosen from the artworks submitted.

Artworks can be submitted to the Autism Parents Association at P.O Box 30 Marsa, or to the OPM in Castille.

They will be accepted until the end of this month.