
By Michelle Spitzer
The Town of Parkland is hosting a Autism awareness and acceptance event in April with vapproves the sharing of educational resources.
There will also be games, live music, arts and crafts, face painting, a petting zoo, and more.
Parkland recently received the rare distinction of being an autism-friendly city. It is the only city in South Florida and the second in the state to receive this honor.
Mayor Rich Walker referenced how former mayor Christine Hunschofsky kicked off the process at the last city commission meeting and invited her to participate in the presentation.

City officials have worked for years to earn this honor. From librarians to BSO-Parkland assistants, school resource officers, and parks and recreation employees, staff received additional training on working with people with autism and their families.
Residents and visitors also have access to sensory mapsincluding the library, city parks and city hall. Social stories are also available, giving residents and visitors detailed explanations of what to expect from sights and sounds at different locations in the city.
The family event takes place Saturday, April 9 from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Pine Trails Park.
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Author Profile

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Michelle Spitzer grew up in Coral Springs, attending Westchester Elementary, Ramblewood Middle, and JP Taravella High. She attended the University of Florida and has been a journalist for nearly two decades. As a reporter and editor for The Associated Press and USA Today, she’s covered everything from US presidents to shuttle launches to Jamie Foxx’s New Year’s Eve party.
