At present, the school has 276 students, 19 classes and 50 teachers, making it one of the earliest and most influential nine-year compulsory special education schools in Shanxi province.

"Artistic creation can develop the students' thinking, cultivate aesthetic, spatial and motor skills, and improve their physical coordination," Zhang said. She added that the school has gradually introduced various classes, such as Special Olympics, art and autism experimental classes, exploring teaching paths focused on students' strengths and social integration.

The event also featured several hands-on activities, including clay modeling, picture coloring, bottle painting and kite graffiti. Children participated in groups, expressing themselves and unleashing their creativity while enhancing emotional communication through collaborative interactions.

Meanwhile, every attendee wore a blue ribbon on their right wrist, an internationally recognized symbol representing increased awareness and understanding of the autism community. "The touch of blue signifies understanding, acceptance and a promise to protect hand in hand," Zhang said.

Zhao Yifan contributed to this story.

Contact the writers at zhuxingxin@chinadaily.com.cn