Man ‘cured’ of autism to give lecture

The Scotsman – Edinburgh,Scotland,UK reports

A CONTROVERSIAL autism expert is making a return to the Capital to give a lecture about the disorder.

Raun Kaufman, a United States-based international lecturer, claims he was “cured” of autism and will give a free talk at the National Museum of Scotland.

Parents and professionals will be taught strategies that Mr Kaufman claims can help children with special needs maximise speech and language development, generate eye contact and control tantrums and repetitive behaviours. According to the National Autistic Society, one of every 86 British children has special educational needs related to autism spectrum disorders.

Autism is the third most prevalent developmental disorder in the world and has increased over the last decade.

Mr Kaufman will present Breakthrough Strategies for Autism Spectrum Disorders at the National Museum of Scotland on September 19 from 1pm to 3.30pm.

Mr Kaufman claims he “emerged fully” from autism via the principles that became the basis for his Son-Rise Programme, then went on to graduate with a degree in biomedical ethics.

• The Scottish Autism Society is appealing for cyclists to fly the flag for charity in Portugal and Spain.

The charity hopes to take 50 cyclists to the continent next May to take part in the 500km trip from Lisbon and Seville. The week-long expedition, which sets off on May 7, follows previous challenges such as a Sahara Challenge and an Inca Trail Challenge.

Anyone interested should contact the society on 01259 728340 or visit www.autism-in-scotland.org.uk