April is World Autism Awareness Month. On this occasion, we invite school communities to a meaningful film and conversation event designed to better understand autism not through stereotypes, but through real experiences. On April 20, at 9:30 a.m., we invite students in grades 7-12 to watch the film “My Special Son,” after which we will invite them to consider: do we really understand autism – or do we just look at it from the outside? We will talk about family experiences “from the inside,” the reality of school, and what often goes unnoticed, answer questions, and discuss together.
Autism Ambassador Ieva Dudutienė will be interviewed by Kristina Radžvilaitė, project coordinator of the Lithuanian Autism Association "Children of the Rain".
About the movie "My Special Son"
Austin is an extraordinary boy. Sometimes people say that he is “one in a million.” Austin is one in four billion. That is exactly the chance that the same person has to have brittle bone syndrome and be on the autism spectrum. However, the child’s uniqueness lies elsewhere – despite constant injuries, difficulties in communicating with others and a complex diagnosis, he never loses his good mood for a second and it seems that all the secrets of life are accessible to him.
His father, Scott, has a hard time accepting his son's attitude - after all, it is the duty of parents to care for and protect their children. At first, he sees his son's condition as his own failure, but Austin's love, optimism and special relationship with the world gradually change not only himself, but also those around him.
This story speaks sensitively and inspiringly about inner strength, acceptance, and the ability to see the person beyond the diagnosis.
Lithuanian Autism Association "Children of the Rain"
The Lithuanian Autism Association "Lietaus vaikai" is the largest organization uniting autistic individuals and their families in Lithuania. It brings together a community consisting of autistic individuals, their relatives, specialists and service providers.
The organization conducts educational activities, shares the latest information about autism, organizes trainings, projects and initiatives aimed at improving the quality of life of people with autism. It also actively seeks to increase public understanding and create a more inclusive environment in which every person can live with dignity and fullness.
"Children of the Rain" also provides support to families - from consultations to practical tools to help them better understand autism and everyday challenges.
When: April 20, 2026 9:30 a.m.–12:00 p.m.
Where: Kaunas Film Center "Romuva" (Laisvės al. 54, Kaunas)
Registration: Click here
Registration for the session is mandatory! The number of places is limited. Confirmation will be sent to the e-mail address provided during registration.
Information:
+370 670 25508
edukacija@kcromuva.lt
Friends of the event: Lithuanian Autism Association "Rain Children".
Photography may be taken during the session. Registration confirms your consent to the use of photos on Romuva's social media.