As the 2025 Special Olympics World Winter Games take place in Turin, Italy, from March 8 to 16, a different kind of game was already underway in Shanghai.

On Feb 23, 15 families with autistic children were joined by 40 volunteers from around the world for a special floor hockey match at Huangpu Riverside Skateboard Park.

Under the guidance of professional hockey coaches, the children actively participated in the game. But the event was about more than just hockey — it was about creating a space where autistic children felt included, valued, and understood.

Wang Ziqing, a 16-year-old volunteer from Shanghai's Cao Yang No 2 High School, recalled her interactions with a young boy who, despite his challenges, demonstrated remarkable intelligence and insight.

"Spending time with autistic children made me realize they are smarter than we thought. Sometimes, their parents worry too much. I think these kids are already doing an amazing job," she said.

Zheng Jiayuan, a 10th grader at Wellington College International Shanghai, volunteered as an interpreter for the event. Yet, he quickly discovered that his role was almost unnecessary.

"None of the international volunteers spoke much Chinese, but they connected with the children effortlessly. Some things transcend language — emotions, body gestures, smiles, and love don't depend on nationality," he said.

Before the game, Zheng Xingkui, founder of Green House — the charity that organized the event — introduced the volunteers to the basics of autism and the concept of "neurodiversity", which emphasizes that neurological differences, such as autism, are a normal part of human diversity rather than deficits to be fixed.

Sergio Bassett, a 19-year-old volunteer from Nicaragua, reflected on this idea. "They are just like us, but they have difficulties with communication," he said. "This experience reinforced the importance of respecting everyone, no matter who they are or how they look. Everyone deserves respect."

Volunteers noticed a transformation in the children as the game progressed.

"They might have been shy at first, but after playing and interacting, they seemed more comfortable and happier," said Maria Jimenez Diez Del Sel, a 23-year-old volunteer from Spain.

"Sports have this incredible power to unite people, transcending borders and differences," added Chiara Muller, a 23-year-old volunteer from Italy.

Embracing differences

According to Zheng Xingkui, Green House organizes activities every one to two weeks, with sports like cycling, kayaking, and hiking playing a big role. The core philosophy, he explained, is "integration".

"We create opportunities for these children to engage with their peers so they can experience and connect with the real world," he said.

Since its establishment in 2017, the charity has been dedicated to raising awareness about autism spectrum disorder through sports activities and cross-cultural exchanges.

The impact of these events is immediate. After the hockey game, for example, Muller said she was delighted to "feel like a kid again".

"Sometimes, we get too serious in life, and it's important to remember that inside, we're still kids who like to play. That was a fun moment for me," she said.

Inspired by the event, Zheng Jiayuan decided to share his experience with his classmates.

"Not everyone has time to volunteer, but those of us who do should use our voices to make a difference," he said. "The autism community is often misunderstood or even excluded in social settings. Instead of distancing ourselves because of their differences, we should make the effort to understand them and show more patience and kindness."

Wang stressed that young people have a responsibility to advocate for the autistic community.

"With social media and other platforms, we have the power to raise awareness and inspire greater compassion for these children," she said.

"We need to build on the work of those before us while bringing fresh energy, new ideas, and innovation," she added.