An autistic child receives a model plane as a gift from Guiyang Airport on March 29. [Photo/Xinhua]

Supported by the Guizhou Polar Aquarium and a selection of charity organizations, 28 autistic children were invited to Guizhou Airport on March 29 for World Autism Awareness Day on April 2.

Autism is a mental condition characterized by great difficulty in communication, the formation of relationships with others and in the use and understanding of abstract concepts. Children with autism are colloquially referred to as xingxingde haizi, or children of the stars, in China. The number of autistic children under the age of 14 in China in need of social care has reached two million.

Early treatment of autism proves to be effective, according to cases studied in developed countries. Autistic children can fit into society, if given appropriate treatment. Guiyang Airport has called for more social awareness of autism.

A flight attended assists an autistic child with fastening his safety belt. [Photo/Xinhua]