What Is Autism Spectrum Disorder

• Autism
  
• Aspergers Syndrome
  
• PDD-NOS
  
• Rett Syndrome
  
• Childhood Disintegrative Disorder
  
• other Pervasive Developmental Disorders
  

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a mysterious, lifelong, communication and behavioural disorder. Today 1 in 150 children will be diagnosed with an Autism Spectrum Disorder. Those affected with ASD may experience challenges in communication and language, problems with social interactions, unusual and problematic behaviour and sensory processing difficulties.

Autism Symptoms Checklist

Autism symptoms vary from child to child and time to time in severity and manner. Not every characteristic appears in every child.

• unusual eye contact
• lack of meaningful speech
• resists change in routine
• difficulty mixing with other children
• indicates needs by gestures
• inappropriate laughter
• marked physical overactivity or extreme passivity

Persons with ASD have a wide range of intellectual abilities.

Other common characteristics include problems with sleeping, eating, and toileting.

Autism Treatments

Austism Spectrum Disorders are treatable - early diagnosis and intervention are vital to the future development of the child. Never has the future looked so bright for autistic children. With new research advancements and new treatment options such as intensive behaviour intervention, sensory integration, and auditory training, along with public awareness and dedicated educational personnel, our autistic children can reach new heights.

Quote from
David W. Eastman
1963-1988.

An accident claimed David's life at the age of 25. David, a non-verbal, autistic adult will be remembered by his poetry which gives insight into the thoughts and feelings of a person with autism.