Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) impacts an individual throughout their lifetime. ASD is referred to as a “developmental condition”, meaning that someone is born with ASD and symptoms are often first noticed in early childhood. ASD can impact an individual’s social skills, communication, relationships, and self-regulation. ASD occurs along a “spectrum” meaning that each individual’s experience and presentation is unique.
There is no known single “cause” for ASD; however, it is generally accepted that ASD is caused by differences in brain structure or brain function (e.g., how a part of the brain is formed or what a part of the brain does). What is known about ASD is that it is NOT caused by vaccines, parenting styles, or nutrition. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), ASD impacts 1 in 44 children in the United States.
ASD is characterized by differences in two areas 1) social communication and 2) restricted, repetitive patterns of behavior, interests, or activities. Differences in social communication can include lack of verbal communication skills, not understanding nonverbal communication, difficulties with the back-and-forth of communication, having a tough time making or keeping friends. Restricted, repetitive patterns of behavior, interests, or activities can include repeating sounds, having a preference for specific phrases, difficulties with transitions or unexpected changes, highly specific interests, high or low sensitivity to sensory stimuli. Research has shown that early diagnosis and intervention lead to positive outcomes later in life.
Contact us to schedule an evaluation.
Resources
Autism Speaks First 100 Days Kit
Referrals
Social Skills Groups
West Metro Learning Connections, Inc.
Books