Prince George's Co. police receive 500 kits to help interact with children with autism

PRINCE GEORGE'S COUNTY, Md. (7News) — To offer better communication with children with autism, the Prince George’s County Police Department (PGPD) received a donation of 500 Autism Sensory Kits.

The donation from the Hussman Institute for Autism comes in recognition of Autism Acceptance Month.

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Officials said these kits aim to equip officers with the tools they may need to interact with people with autism.

"Helping our officers understand the unique needs of autistic children and providing these sensory kits can help create a more supportive interaction under traumatic circumstances," PGPD Police Chief Aziz said.

The kits will include:

• Guidance documents on how to assist people with autism
• A letter board and dry-erase board to assist non-speaking people
• Headphones designed to block out noise
• Sunglasses for light sensitivity
• Fdgets to calm and keep hands busy
• A plush toy to relieve stress

"The success we've had with the sensory bags has been absolutely incredible," said Dr. John P. Hussman, executive director of the Hussman Institute. "You don't know when or if you're going to need something like this, but when you have it, it makes a huge difference. It completely changes the dynamic and energy."