Understanding Autism

March 27, 2010 12:49 PM

We've had this on our site for a while but in honor of Autism awareness month, April, we've refreshed it and put back on top!

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WHAT IS AUTISM?
Autism is a developmental disability that affects how the brain functions, specifically those areas of the brain that control social interaction and communication skills. Boys are more likely to develop autism, and most children are diagnosed by the age of 3. Autism is a member of a group of disorders called Autism Spectrum Disorders, or ASDs. Autism Spectrum Disorders are part of a larger group called Pervasive Developmental Disorders, or PDDs. Asperger's Disorder is probably the best-known other member of the ASD family.


Boy in a tree.jpgWHAT ARE SOME COMMON SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS?
Children and adults with autism typically have difficulty in both verbal and nonverbal communication. People with autism may have difficulty relating to the outside world and may have unusual reactions to the people and objects around them. People with autism may demonstrate aggressive behavior that may cause injury to themselves or others. The disorder also may cause sensitivity to the senses of sight, hearing, touch, smell, taste, and other senses too.


PEOPLE WITH AUTISM ARE PEOPLE FIRST!
Sometimes people with Autism are referred to as "Autistic." Many people these days are dropping this in favor of "person-first" language. That's why we prefer to say "people" or "children" WITH Autism.


SOME GOOD NEWS ABOUT AUTISM
Specialized therapy including Occupational (OT), Speech (ST or SLP), and even sometimes Physical therapy (PT) can provide intervention that helps children to develop appropriate motor, social, play, and learning skills. The therapist aids the child in achieving and maintaining abilities in normal daily tasks such as getting dressed and playing with other children.

What can our therapists do?

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  • Evaluate a child (at home!) to determine if his or her skills are appropriate for the child's age, such as motor movements, self-care (i.e. dressing, toileting), and play skills.
  • Provide intervention (in your home!) to help a child appropriately respond to information coming through the senses.
  • Take children on community outings to build skills in the real world.
  • Intervention may include developmental activities, sensory integration, and play activities.
  • Facilitate play activities that promote interaction and communication with others.
  • We take Insurance and Medicaid so parents can focus on what really matters - their child's progress!

What can parents and families do?

  • Join a support group for parents and families of children with autism. Families of people with autism or any other special needs can experience high levels of stress and anxiety because of the child's challenging behavior and the financial demands.
  • Collaborate with the child's therapist and other medical and educational professionals to encourage improvement in social skills and daily tasks.
  • Implement home programs as directed by the child's therapist. Here's an article about sensory integration at home, specifically for food and drink.


BLOGGING ABOUT AUTISM

We are always adding new content about Autism that we think is relevant and important - check back often!

A Guide for Families following a Diagnosis of Autism


Dynamic Therapy won a 2009 Mom's Voice! Award in the category of "Best Pediatric Therapy" on www.MomsOutLoud.com, now dallas.todaysmama.com!