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April is World Autism Awareness Month

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Autism, or autism spectrum disorder (ASD), refers to a broad range of conditions characterized by challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviors, speech and nonverbal communication. According to the Centers for Disease Control, autism affects an estimated 1 in 44 children in the United States today.

There are many subtypes of autism, most influenced by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Because autism is a spectrum disorder, each person with autism has a distinct set of strengths (skills) and severe challenges.

 

Some people with ASD may require significant support in their daily lives, while others may need less support.  Several factors may influence the development of autism, and it is often accompanied by sensory sensitivities and medical issues such as gastrointestinal (GI) disorders, seizures or sleep disorders, as well as mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression and attention issues.

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Signs of autism usually appear through developmental delays in early childhood.  But, not every child who has a development delay is diagnosed with autism.  If you have concerns about your child's developmental delay, get your child screened by their healthcare provider.  

The M-CHAT (Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers) can help you determine if a professional should evaluate your child. 

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Early intervention is key.  Even if your child is diagnosed with autism he or she can still thrive.  A diagnosis of autism is an important turning point in a long journey to understand how your child perceives the world around them as well as how they learn and grow.  Get the support and resources you need to help you understand autism.

 

Autism Speaks has many resources for families whose children have received a diagnosis.

These include Autism Speaks First Concern to Action Tool Kit and First Concern to Action Roadmap.

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source: www.autismspeaks.org

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By Dietra Myers