What is autism?
Autism is a development disorder that’s categorized by repetitive, limited behaviors, as well as impaired social interaction, and limited communication skills. Typically, autism runs on a spectrum. This means that autism, or autism spectral disorder (ASD) can be associated with intellectual disabilities, difficulties with motor coordination, problems with attention and physical health issues, and an inability to complete basic personal hygiene and self-care tasks.
How does autism happen?
While researchers do not have enough concrete data to pinpoint the cause of autism, there have been many hypotheses over the years. For example, many researchers believe that a diet high in gluten introduces or exacerbates the presence of autism. However, that finding has little to back it up. another theory looks to the immune system. A more solid and well-researched theory attributes the disorder to genetics, as it affects the way the brain is organized.
What are the symptoms of autism?
Typically, autism is diagnosed within the first three years of a child’s like, as it emerges between the ages of two and three. According to researchers, the earlier a diagnosis is, the better chances of intervention and effective treatment are.
Here are some of the tell-tale signs of autism:
- Problems with social interaction, such as an issue developing nonverbal communication skills, abnormal body posture and facial expressions. This also includes a difficulty in understanding others’ feelings.
- A delay in learning to speak, as well as repetitive usages of the language they do use.
- A lack of interest in typical play behaviors. Also, children with autism are prone to self-stimulation in the form of hand gestures and rocking.
My child has autism. Now what?
As previously mentioned, early intervention is key to helping you child with autism live as normal of a life as possible. For many parents, private schools that function as special needs schools are a great option, as it will allow children to be surrounded by compassionate professionals and classmates that are on similar intellectual levels. Private schools also offer a plethora of benefits when seeking help for children with autism.
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