What is Autism?
What Is Autism Spectrum Disorder? Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex developmental condition involving persistent challenges with social communication, restricted interests, and repetitive behavior. While autism is considered a lifelong disorder, the degree of impairment in functioning because of these challenges varies between individuals with autism. Diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorders Early signs of this disorder can be noticed by parents/caregivers or pediatricians before a child reaches one year of age. However, symptoms typically become more consistently visible by the time a child is 2 or 3 years old. In some cases, the functional impairment related to autism may be mild and not apparent until the child starts school, after which their deficits may be pronounced when amongst their peers. Tips For Parents:
Autism Class at Jackson Elementary School
This is a video of the Structured Autism Classroom at Jackson Elementary School which I created for a grant request by a student. It was videotaped by my daughter Becca, in December 2009, and shows the classroom structure, explains TEACCH (Treatment and Education of Autistic and related Communication handicapped CHildren) as and PECS (Picture Exchange Communication System) , the 3 criteria associated with the diagnosis of Autism, my classroom philosophy and my education.
Autism Communication Tips
Helpful communication tips for family, friends and teachers about supporting children with Autism. Created by Sophia Cormack (Speech and Language therapist)