April 28th 2018 is International Tabletop Day! It’s a day to promote the hobby where everyone makes an effort to fill their day with games.
Path of Play Day is also on April 28th! Path of Play is an initiative to raise funds to support families living with Autism. At Path of Play they believe that when you play … you connect.
Autism is a neurological disorder that typically affects a person’s ability to communicate, form relationships with others, and respond appropriately to the environment. It is a life-long developmental disorder that affects the individual’s ability to understand what they see, hear, touch and taste. It often manifests itself at ages 2 to 3 and is prevalent in 1 out of 67 children in Canada and the United States, making it the most common neurological disorder in children. Children affected by it have difficulties communicating, learning and developing social skills. They have to work to learn normal patterns of speech and communication, and how to appropriately relate to people, objects, and events. As a result, individuals with autism may respond in unusual ways to everyday situations and changing environments.
Unfortunately these characteristics often lead to a separation from society. We have previously discussed the strong social benefits of board games for children. These benefits are even more apparent in children with neurological disorders by creating an inclusive space, making it easier for children to connect. Playing games breaks the barriers between children with and without autism (or other neurological disorders). Like we always say, board games bring people together. All people.
Path and Play Day raises funds for families of autism by providing subsidy programs for early intervention, providing games to families and therapy centers, as well as the creation of communication apps for non-verbal individuals. If you would like to provide a donation to help families you can do so through the Kids Table Board Gaming fundraising team that we are a part of. Even if you can’t, you can help raise awareness by using the hashtag #PlayingForAutism when you share photos of any games you play on International Tabletop Day.
Wishing you all a day full of gaming!!!