OFICINA “UM OLHAR ATÍPICO”: UMA ESTRATÉGIA DE EDUCAÇÃO EM SAÚDE SOBRE TRANSTORNO DO ESPECTRO AUTISTA

This study aimed to describe the implementation of health education actions focused on the care of children with autism, ensuring access to information about autism for parents and caregivers, regarding behavioral changes, management strategies, and the importance of early interventions in child development. This report was conducted between November 2023 and March-April 2024, through educational workshops held at early childhood education institutions in the city of Ararendá, Ceará. The workshops were carried out using conversation circles, addressing topics related to Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and its management, with a focus on guiding parents and caregivers. During the workshops, the emotional overload of mothers, the need for self-care, and the importance of informational support on ASD were observed. The activities also covered interventions such as music therapy, physical activity, and body practices, which play a crucial role in the development of children and help reduce autism symptoms. The promotion of autonomy for parents and caregivers, teacher training for educational inclusion, and the creation of therapeutic spaces for caregivers were identified as essential actions to improve the quality of life for children. The main barriers for children with ASD were found to be the lack of professional training, difficult access to specialized services, family misinformation, and social stigma. To mitigate these difficulties, health education actions aimed at guiding and supporting mothers and caregivers are essential.