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Autism Spectrum Disorder

What is Autism? - official definition

Autism is a neuro-biological disorder of unknown origin. It is a developmental disability that is usually diagnosed in the first three years of life.

It affects the functioning of the brain, and it is estimated to affect as many as 1 in 150 children and adults in the  United States (and Canada).                            

Autism affects boys 4 times more than girls. Autism is found in families of all racial, ethnic, and social classes of families.

Autism affects social interaction and communication skills. Many autistic children also have some sensory impairment. This is evident by their odd stereotypic behavior, and possible sensitivities to touch, sight, smell, or sounds.  The vast majority of autism cases have no known cause. (Source: www.Autismonline.org) 

Watch this short video/essay entitled "WHAT IS AUTISM?"  (featuring my beautiful daughter) for an overview of what Autism is...

 

About the video~ I know when I tell people that my daughter has autism they don't know what t is exactly, or they think of pop culture references like the movie rain man. This features my daughter Eowyn, and I hope it gives an overview of the disorder. Please share it with others ~

Quick Facts

  • Autism affects 1 in 150 children, 30 years ago it was 1 in 10,000
  • 4 out of 5 children with autism will be boys
  • There is no one known cause for autism, the only genetic cause is called FRAGILE X,
  • Some people believe autism is caused by vaccinations, heavy metals, and dietary issues (more later), there are many theories, but nothing is conclusive at this time.
  • There is no cure for autism. 
  • There are treatments available. Early intervention is key because although the earlier therapy is started the more successful it can be. 
  • Although there are savants (geniuses) within the autistic population, most people with autism are not like the movie character rain man. Only 10% of the autistic  popluation  are  savant.

Research and Information ~ There are various organizations trying to answer the BIG questions like  - What Causes Autism? To learn more and get involved check out our research and information page.  -  Click Here!

 

Treatment Options ~ Autism is treated in a variety of ways. There are nonstandard medical treatments used because autism is a spectrum disorder and every child is different. (Biomedical, Educational, Sensory..)  for links and more information click here !

Organizations  ~  Are you looking to connect with others? Click here to find out how to  get in contact with non-profit groups, groups that can further your education about autism, groups that provide you with a chance to meet others on the same  jouney as you... Click here to learn more... 

Advocacy 101 ~ Sharing information about autism can be scary sometimes, what do you say? Especially when you are talking to your child's teacher, or someone in the media? Here are our resources to help you be as prepared as you can for any event from the beginning of the school year (check out the autism speak's community guide with booklets for everyone from the principal to the bus driver) to information for a booth at a trade show or fundraiser....click here to read more...

Educational Resources~ For anyone who works with children on the spectrum here are online training courses and resources to help you work with these special children.

Just for Kids ~ Here are some sites and resources for the young and young at heart.

 Visit Our T-Shirt Store...for quirky slogans like these - text reads "I have Autism, and I think you are weird too." 

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