Giant pandas offer healing to children with autism in Hebei

To mark the 19th World Autism Awareness Day on April 2, a special event titled "Giant Panda Healing · Guarding the Stars" was held on Friday at a wildlife park in Qinhuangdao, Hebei province.

The event welcomed about 100 children with autism for an immersive experience, which included panda mascot interactions, guided tours and art activities. The initiative was designed to create a warm and calming environment to help support emotional regulation and long-term rehabilitation.

A major highlight of the day was the official opening of the Panda-themed Healing Base, aimed at providing regular, nature-based therapy and emotional support through close encounters with these gentle animals. Local authorities said the initiative reflects ongoing efforts in Qinhuangdao to foster social inclusion and explore innovative, animal-assisted approaches to autism care.