Autism
Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are a complex group of related disabilities marked by impairments in communication and socialization, a limited range of interests, and the presence of repetitive behaviors. Although often not diagnosed until preschool age, ASDs develop early in life and are generally lifelong, with implications for education, social development, and community adjustment.
Autism became a federal special education disability category in 1991. Since that time, an enormous amount of information has become available for parents and teachers and has resulted in a broader definition of autism, often referred to as autism spectrum disorder. Today there are better tools to identify the disorder, and schools are often the primary source of referral for evaluation. Parents and educators can acquire the knowledge and skills they need to support children at home and at school. As more research yields new information, parents and teachers must stay informed and work together as a team to help children achieve positive learning outcomes.
ASD is diagnosed based on behaviors, not medical tests. In order to accurately diagnose ASD, the child should have a comprehensive evaluation by professionals with expertise in identifying differences in language, behavioral, social, and cognitive skill development. An accurate and early diagnosis of ASD will enable parents to gain an understanding of their child and his or her specific needs while the child is very young. Specialists can reliably diagnose children at age 2.
Basic Facts
Autism affects as many as 1 out of 500 children. When the other two autism spectrum disorders are included, Asperger syndrome and pervasive developmental disorder-not otherwise specified (PDD- NOS), that number rises to as many as 1 out of 150 children. Although some individuals with ASD may make significant improvements over time, relative weaknesses in social and communication skills remain.
Autism became a federal special education disability category in 1991. Since that time, an enormous amount of information has become available for parents and teachers and has resulted in a broader definition of autism, often referred to as autism spectrum disorder. Today there are better tools to identify the disorder, and schools are often the primary source of referral for evaluation. Parents and educators can acquire the knowledge and skills they need to support children at home and at school. As more research yields new information, parents and teachers must stay informed and work together as a team to help children achieve positive learning outcomes.
ASD is diagnosed based on behaviors, not medical tests. In order to accurately diagnose ASD, the child should have a comprehensive evaluation by professionals with expertise in identifying differences in language, behavioral, social, and cognitive skill development. An accurate and early diagnosis of ASD will enable parents to gain an understanding of their child and his or her specific needs while the child is very young. Specialists can reliably diagnose children at age 2.
Basic Facts
Autism affects as many as 1 out of 500 children. When the other two autism spectrum disorders are included, Asperger syndrome and pervasive developmental disorder-not otherwise specified (PDD- NOS), that number rises to as many as 1 out of 150 children. Although some individuals with ASD may make significant improvements over time, relative weaknesses in social and communication skills remain.
When Your Child or Friend Has Autism
Learn about autism. The more you know about autism spectrum disorders,the better equipped you’ll be to make informed decisions. Educate yourself about the treatment options, ask questions, and participate in all treatment decisions.
Become an expert. Figure out what triggers “bad” or disruptive behaviors and what elicits a positive response. What does the autistic child find stressful? Calming? Uncomfortable? Enjoyable? If you understand what affects the child, you’ll be better at troubleshooting problems and preventing situations that cause difficulties.
Accept your child, quirks and all. Rather than focusing on how the autistic child is different from other children and what he or she is “missing,” practice acceptance. Enjoy the special quirks, celebrate small successes, and stop comparing your child to others. Feeling unconditionally loved and accepted will help the autistic child more than anything else.
Don’t give up. It’s impossible to predict the course of an autism spectrum disorder. Don’t jump to conclusions about what life is going to be like. Like everyone else, people with autism have an entire lifetime to grow and develop their abilities.
The information above was taken from the following two websites, which you should visit if you want more information:
Become an expert. Figure out what triggers “bad” or disruptive behaviors and what elicits a positive response. What does the autistic child find stressful? Calming? Uncomfortable? Enjoyable? If you understand what affects the child, you’ll be better at troubleshooting problems and preventing situations that cause difficulties.
Accept your child, quirks and all. Rather than focusing on how the autistic child is different from other children and what he or she is “missing,” practice acceptance. Enjoy the special quirks, celebrate small successes, and stop comparing your child to others. Feeling unconditionally loved and accepted will help the autistic child more than anything else.
Don’t give up. It’s impossible to predict the course of an autism spectrum disorder. Don’t jump to conclusions about what life is going to be like. Like everyone else, people with autism have an entire lifetime to grow and develop their abilities.
The information above was taken from the following two websites, which you should visit if you want more information: