Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a developmental disorder that consists of several conditions which used to be diagnosed separately: autistic disorder, pervasive developmental disorder not otherwise specified (PDD-NOS), and Asperger Syndrome. “Spectrum” refers to the wide range of symptoms, skills, and levels of disability in functioning that can occur. People diagnosed with ASD often have problems with communication, social, and behavioral/emotional skills.
Communication challenges and differences:
Social Interaction challenges and differences:
Unusual behavior/emotional challenges and differences:
Signs of ASD typically occur in early childhood and last throughout a person's lifetime.
Currently, no cure is available for ASD, however, research shows that early intervention treatment can improve a child's development. Information adapted from the CDC.
If you have concerns about ASD, please contact your child's primary care physician. Learn more about the autism spectrum diagnostic testing process.
Here is a five part newsletter series that cover topics from early identification to, communicating with people diagnosed with ASD. This series will offer you tons of resources and information.
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