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By: Jakole Jones Senior Capstone 2012

Autism is a complex developmental disability that typically appears during the first three years of life. It is widely recognized as a neurodevelopment disorder that affects the functioning of the brain. It is a spectrum disorder. Children with autism are unable to interpret the emotional states of others, failing to recognize anger, sorrow or manipulative intent. It impacts the normal development of the brain in the areas of social interaction and communication skills. Children with autism typically have difficulties in verbal and non-verbal communication, social interactions, and leisure or play activities. Stereotypic (self-stimulatory) behaviors may be present. In some cases, aggressive and/or self-injurious behaviors might be present It is not a behavioral, emotional or conduct disorder. It is not a mental illness. There are no medical tests that can be used to diagnose autism.

Social Interaction & Relationships Failure to establish friendship with children the same age. Lack of interest in sharing enjoyment , interest, or achievement. Activities Unusual focus on pieces . Focus on parts of toys . (Wheels on a car etc.) A need for sameness and routines. ( eat bread before salad, takes the same route to school than short cuts).

Verbal and Nonverbal Communication Avoid eye contact Act as if deaf Develop language, then abruptly stop talking Fail to use spoken language, without compensating by gesture.

Behavioral Interventions research suggests that early, intensive behavioral interventions may improve outcomes for children with autism and help the children achieve their maximum potential. Sensory Integration integration and interpretation of sensory stimulation from the environment enhances cognition.

Diet people with autism are more susceptible to allergies and food sensitivities than the average person. The most common food sensitivity in children with autism is to gluten and casein.
Vitamin Therapy parents have reported that they have tried B6/magnesium and/or DMG, often with good or even spectacular results.

Use visuals Avoid long strings of verbal instruction Encourage development of childs special talents Use childs fixations to motivate school work Use concrete, visual methods to teach number concepts Let child use a typewriter instead of writing Protect child from sounds that hurt his/her ears

Place child near a window and avoid using fluorescent lights Use weighted vests to calm nervous system Interact with child while he/she is swinging or rolled in a mat Dont ask child to look and listen at the same time Teach with tactile learning materials (e.g., sandpaper alphabet) Use printed words and pictures on a flashcard Generalize teaching

Find programs for your child Take care of yourself Decide how to deal with others Keep daily routines as normal as possible Know that you are not alone Most importantly, keep your sense of humor

Seek the assistance of other parents Rely on positive resources in your life (e.g., church, counselors) Take it one day at a time Learn the terminology Seek information (e.g., internet, support groups, library) Do not be intimidated Maintain a positive outlook

For more help visit the DePelchin Childrens Center http://www.depelchin.org/

UNITED STATES
More children will be diagnosed with autism this year than with AIDS, diabetes & cancer combined. While there is no medical detection or known cure for autism, thousands of children have shown significant improvement resulting from early diagnosis and use of effective interventions. Autism is four times more prevalent in boys than girls.

UNITED KINGDOM

2/3 of adults in England have autism and do not even have enough support to meet their needs . 1/3 of adults are experiencing sever mental health difficulties because of the lack of support. 40% of children have been bullied at school. 50% are not in the school their parents believe best supports them.

http://autismspeaks.player.abacast.com/asdvide oglossary-0.1/player/autismspeaks

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