1 in 54
American children are diagnosed with autism.
3.5 million
Americans are living with ASD.
ASD
can be reliably diagnosed as early as 18 months.
What is Autism Spectrum Disorder?
ASD refers to a broad range of conditions characterized by challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviors, speech, and nonverbal communication. Each person diagnosed with ASD has a distinct set of strengths and weaknesses that affect their ability to learn, think, problem-solve, and communicate.
What is Meant by “Spectrum” in ASD?
Each child diagnosed with ASD is as unique as their symptoms. One child with autism may be completely different from another child with autism; autism is a neurological disorder that manifests itself differently in each patient. Some children may be high-functioning and some may be low-functioning, and anywhere on the “spectrum” in between.
How is ASD Diagnosed?
A diagnosis for Autism Spectrum Disorder is typically made on developmental milestones and behaviors. There is no conclusive test to diagnose autism; it is based purely on observation of behaviors alone. In order for a child to be diagnosed with ASD, they must meet a specific criteria surrounding the deficits in social communication, interpersonal interactions, andr restrictive or repetitive behaviors.
Can Autism Be Cured?
There is no known cure for ASD, but it is treatable through proven and effective Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) Therapy and early interventions.
What is the Difference Between ASD & ADD/ADHD?
While children with ADD/ADHD may have trouble focusing or show excessive fidgeting, they don’t typically have repetitive behaviors the way that children with ASD will have. Additionally, children with ADD/ADHD don’t have the same difficulties with social interactions or communication. It is possible for children to have both disorders, in fact, the disorders co-occur in 18% of children with one or the other.
What Causes Autism Spectrum Disorder?
ASD is caused by abnormal brain development, but there is no clear answer yet as to what causes this abnormal development. Genetic factors may play a small role, but other than that there is no single known cause of Autism.
Is ASD Hereditary?
While Autism has a tendency to run in families, the inheritance pattern is somewhat unknown. People with gene changes associated with ASD generally inherit an increased risk of developing the condition. Research concerning this topic is ongoing, but suggests that ASD can be a combination of genetic, non-genetic, and environmental influences.
How Common is ASD?
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that 1 in 54 children are diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder. This includes 1 in 37 boys and 1 in 151 girls.
What Do I Do if My Child is Diagnosed With Autism Spectrum Disorder?
Receiving an ASD diagnosis for your child can be frightening and overwhelming. However, the best thing that you can do is educate yourself about the disorder as well as your child’s unique symptoms, before finding support, resources, and treatment options. At Children’s Milestone in Laurel, we have a guide just for parents to help you understand this unique disorder and how you can give your child the best love and care possible.
Get in Touch With Us Today
At Children’s Milestone in Laurel, we collaborate with families of children with autism to focus on your child’s needs based on their unique strengths and weaknesses. If you’re interested in learning more about our programs and the ABA Therapy that we provide in homes, schools, and throughout our community, get in touch with us today!