Facts about Autism
- Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a developmental disability that can cause significant social, communication, and behavioral challenges.
- Looks do not set ASD apart from non ASD people
- They can either be severely challenged or gifted
- Asperger syndrome is not called Autism Spectrum Disorder
- Signs usually appear before the age of 3 years of age
- Boys are 4 times more likely to have autism than girls
- ASD affects 1 in 68 kids
- Individuals with autism often suffer from numerous co-morbid medical conditions which may include: allergies, asthma, epilepsy, digestive disorders, persistent viral infections, feeding disorders, sensory integration dysfunction, sleeping disorders, and more
- THERE IS NO CURE, Early Interventions and treatment can help tremendously
- no two people with autism are alike
- the rate of autism has grown over the last 20 years!
- AUTISM IS THE FASTEST GROWING DEVELOPMENTAL DISORDER
- Early intervention is the key to progression, there is hope
- You are not alone, reach out to other parents, the struggle is REAL (MCAC)
References: https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/autism/facts.html
http://nationalautismassociation.org/resources/autism-fact-sheet/
Signs and Sypmtoms
- Rather be Alone
- Do not like loud noises or certain pitches
- Will not point at objects to show they have interest
- Not look at objects when others point to them
- Only want to be hugged or touched when they are ready
- Repeat actions over and over
- Not able to "pretend play"
- lack of empathy or other peoples feelings
- Unaware when people talk to them
- Very interested in people watching, but want nothing to do with others
- trouble adapting to routine changes
- Have an over-reaction to their 5 senses
- lose skills they once had
References: https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/autism/facts.html