April marks Autism Awareness Month, a time to shine a light on the realities faced by children with autism and their families. For Nurul Aini Osman, a mother of a teenager with autism, this month is an opportunity to share stories of resilience and hope. Her son Ishaan’s journey demonstrates how the right support and understanding can unlock a child’s potential.
When Ishaan was four, he had a unique talent. He could spell complex words like “Nickelodeon” and “television” using blocks but couldn’t speak a single sentence to his family. This condition, known as hyperlexia, involves advanced reading abilities paired with challenges in verbal communication. Nurul recalls how the family adapted by introducing an iPad to help Ishaan express his needs.
Hyperlexia also presented challenges, as Ishaan’s reading skills outpaced his ability to communicate verbally. This added complexity highlighted the importance of a specialized environment where strengths and growth areas could be addressed.
That’s where Taarana School came in. This special education needs school, established by RYTHM Foundation, became a turning point for Ishaan and his family.
Support Beyond Academics
Nurul enrolled Ishaan at Taarana in 2016. He was then semi-verbal and prone to frequent meltdowns. Adjusting to a new environment wasn’t easy, and he cried often during the first few months. But the school staff remained patient. They saw potential where others might have seen limits.
The principal reassured Nurul that patience was key, and within six months, Ishaan began talking. Nurul recalls with a smile, “And he did. Six months later, he began talking and has not stopped since!”
Taarana focuses on practical skills that help children navigate daily life. Ishaan learned to eat with a spoon, brush his teeth, and even use the bathroom independently—milestones that might seem small to others but meant the world to his family. This autism support extended beyond the classroom, helping families feel less isolated.
The focus on holistic development at the special needs school ensured Ishaan’s social, academic, and practical skills grew together, creating a foundation for his confidence and independence.
Acceptance Begins at Home
For Nurul, raising a child with autism has been a journey of acceptance. She compares autism to being left-handed in a world designed for right-handed people, explaining, “It is not a disease that needs to be cured. It is a different way of being.”
Families must embrace their children’s differences while preparing them for the outside world. Nurul emphasizes, “If we want society to accept our kids, we must first accept them and help them navigate life in a neurotypical world.”
The Role of Community
Being part of Taarana has also given Nurul and Ishaan something they didn’t know they needed—a sense of community. Nurul expressed her gratitude for the school: “We have experienced many firsts at Taarana. His achievements might seem trivial to many, but they are tremendous accomplishments to us.”
Challenges as Ishaan Grows Older
As Ishaan grows older, Nurul worries about his future. “As those with autism become adults, people are less compassionate and forgiving. They forget that this is the same person with the same condition, so we must remind the public that the adult is still the same kid deep inside.”
Campaigns like Autism Awareness Month remind society about inclusion and understanding at every stage of life.
Why Autism Awareness Month Matters
Stories like Ishaan’s highlight the importance of Autism Awareness Month. This is a time to focus on building a world where every child, regardless of their differences, has a chance to thrive. With the proper support—from families, schools, and communities—children with autism can thrive and reach their full potential in ways that are meaningful to them.
Join the movement by spreading awareness, supporting inclusive initiatives, or learning more about autism. We can build a future where everyone is seen, valued, and empowered.
