April is National Autism Spectrum Awareness Month
If you’ve met one person with Autism, you’ve met one person with Autism. Simply put, Autism looks different on everyone diagnosed with it! This is one of the main reasons Autism is classified as a spectrum disorder: some are affected mildly and some more severely.
Autism, also known as ASD or Autism Spectrum Disorder, is a developmental disability resulting in some parts of the brain developing faster and some parts slower. No single cause of these brain abnormalities has been pinpointed; but, there is consensus that they occur either before, during or right after birth. Like most developmental disorders, it occurs in all racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic groups. Diagnosis is not based on a medical test but rather on observed unusual or delayed behaviors. The common denominator for all those with Autism is that they are different in the way they see, feel and connect with the world.
Some early signs and symptoms of Autism:
Not speaking and/or understanding others
Not moving as expected
Not making eye contact
Not playing/interacting with peers or adults
Being prone to emotional outbursts
Showing sensitivity to touch
Showing sensitivity to certain noises, sights, textures, smells, and tastes
Being unable to accept “no”
Being unable to accept routine changes
Being obsessed with certain things like letters, numbers, toys, rituals, or activities.
While there is not a cure for Autism, treatment is available and recovery is possible. Our awareness goal should be to have Autism diagnosed by agethree as early intervention is critical to treatment success. The only research-based treatment approach that has been proven effective, specific to Autism is Applied Behavior Analysis. So, it is very important to let your doctor know as soon as you suspect you child might have Autism.
As we focus on Autism Spectrum Disorder month in April, let us all keep in mind that different is not less. Different just gives us all a chance to practice acceptance and inclusion. We all have something to learn from everyone we meet. Join me in continuing to embrace and celebrate our differences.
These excellent resources and others can all be found on The Wellness Council Community Resource Directory – www.WellnessGCV.org – Search ‘autism.’
www.AutismSpeaks.org (free online screening and information)
www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/autism/facts.html (information and resources)
www.AutismSociety.org (information, support and resources)
www.NationalAutismAssociation.org (information, support and resources)
www.NationalAutismResources.com (teaching material – home & classroom, etc.)
www.Autism.TAMU.edu (free parenting classes, parent coaching and more)
Loueva Hatfield, M.Ed., is the Founder and Director of Hatch Learning Habitat and Consulting Firm (www.hatchlearning.com). She has spent the last thirty-five years working with those diagnosed with Developmental Disabilities including those with ASD.