In Shenyang, the capital city of Liaoning Province, the Little Turtle children's services center has been pivotal in providing support and education to children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).

Founded 18 years ago by Sun Lina, the center has grown from a modest classroom serving just five children to a comprehensive facility that can assist over 300 children annually with a team of 54 specialized teachers.

Zhao Yue, a mother whose son Lun Lun has autism, recalls the moment in 2014 when her son spoke the word 'grandpa' for the first time.

Lun Lun had struggled significantly with communication and social interaction before attending the center, where he received dedicated instruction for three years in basic self-care skills.

Now, at 16, he is capable of attending films independently.

Under the philosophy of creating a 'blue harbor' for young children aged 18 months to eight years, the center employs varied teaching methods, including outdoor activities and community engagement, to bolster social skills and emotional growth.

Activities range from fruit picking to horse riding, designed to provide practical experiences for children.

The center’s growth aligns with national trends, where data from a March 2024 report indicates approximately 2 million children under 14 years in China are diagnosed with autism, increasing by around 160,000 each year.

To address this rising concern, the One Foundation has partnered with numerous organizations to standardize rehabilitation services across the country, reaching over 825,700 individuals affected by autism by late 2024.

Moreover, Chinese authorities are enhancing support for autistic children through educational reforms aimed at improving special needs education.

Guidelines released by the Ministry of Education emphasize the establishment of specialized schools and expanded services for children with disabilities.

In Shenyang, families of children with autism are eligible for financial support related to rehabilitation services, amounting to 24,000 yuan annually for children under four and 18,000 yuan for those aged four to ten.

Additionally, local initiatives, such as a workshop orchestrated by the Huanggu District Women's Federation, provide mothers of autistic children with opportunities to increase their household incomes.

Community involvement is also on the rise, as seen through the efforts of young volunteers like Liu Zetong, a university student who works with a local running group for autistic children.

His experiences highlight improvements in both physical health and social abilities among participants, illustrating the positive impact of community-supported activities.

The One Foundation’s Ren Shaopeng emphasizes the necessity of a societal support network for families affected by autism, advocating for collaborative efforts from parents, communities, and organizations to create a nurturing environment for children with ASD.

Zhao Yue has since transitioned from a concerned parent to a volunteer teacher, sharing her knowledge and experiences with others in need.

Through her work with the Shenyang Disabled Persons' Federation, she continues to foster inclusivity and support for autistic children in her community.