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FAQ
The following questions are ones we are asked on a regular basis by concerned family members. Hopefully the answers, although general, will give you some of the information you are seeking.
What is autism?
Autism is a lifelong developmental disability. It affects communication, behavior, and socialization, and is sometimes described as seeing a toddler lose skills that s/he once had, such as talking, pointing, or eye contact.
What are the symptoms?
Some symptoms include, but are not limited to: inconsistently responding when name is called, toe-walking, hand flapping, loss of speech, lack of eye contact, or sensitivity to lights, sounds, touch.
Are there different levels of autism?
There are many different levels of autism. Some possible levels include, but are not limited to, some children excelling in academics but may be unable to make friends. Other children may be affectionate toward others but may not be able to speak. Still other children may have advanced language skills but may be aggressive toward themselves or others.
Who is most susceptible?
Autism is widespread across races and religions. It occurs in more boys than girls, by a ratio of 4:1.
How does someone get diagnosed?
Autism is usually diagnosed between the ages of 2 and 3 years old. (Although some people are diagnosed as early as infancy and as late as adulthood!) Specialists such as a neurodevelopmentalist or a pediatric neurologist diagnose autism. The diagnosis process usually involves observation of the child, parent input, developmental checklists, and diagnostic tools.
Are there other terms to describe autism?
Other diagnoses related to autism include Pervasive Developmental Disorder (PDD), Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), PDD-NOS (Pervasive Developmental Disorder Not Otherwise Specified), High Functioning Autism (HFA), Asperger's Syndrome, and Rett Syndrome.
What cures autism?
Although there is no cure, it has been shown that intensive therapies help teach children with autism in a way that conventional education cannot. Early detection and early intervention are key to the treatment of autism.
Should the family be involved?
Family involvement is vital to the success of any intervention. Without the family carrying over learned skills on a daily basis, a child with autism will have a difficult time maintaining or generalizing skills s/he has learned during intensive therapy. In other words, all the therapy in the world will not be effective if the child’s family doesn’t carry it over into daily life. So, the more involvement the better! Always be present during therapy sessions. Ask the instructors any and all questions. Work with your child while the instructor watches and gives feedback.
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