April is one month with many health-related dates to remember. Today, the spotlight is on autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The common term is Autism, which conversationally refers to the whole spectrum, including Asperger’s Disorder and Pervasive Developmental Disorder – Not Otherwise Specified ([PDD-NOS]). 

There is no known cause for Autism https://autismsociety.org/the-autism-experience/, but when diagnosed, children especially can enjoy an entire and productive childhood and later adult life. 

 

What are some of the early identifying signs of Autism? 

The child is not achieving expected developmental milestones 

They may present as developmentally disabled 

The child may have sensory processing issues (noise, sound, touch, etc.) 

May present with vision or hearing impairment 

It may be nonverbal, nonspeaking, altered speech patterns, or word usage 

Have difficulty making and keeping friends 

Unable to engage in the typical back-and-forth exchange of regular conversation 

 

What should you do if you think your child is autistic? 

Get support. You are not alone. In fact, “statistics for 2024 shows Autism affects 1 in 36 children in the US, and that autism spectrum disorder (ASD) has increased by 312% since 2000” abacustherapies.com/facts-about-autism-comprehensive-overview-for-2024/ 

Contact The Autism Society’s National Helpline to learn about resources and services in your area.  

Speak with a trained Information & Referral (I&R) Specialist about desired resources and support options. While the Helpline can’t provide direct services, the I&R Specialist will connect you to resources and providers that can. 

Remember, your child is unique and exceptionally talented, with much to offer.  

Both the past and present are rich with autistic individuals. Dan Akroyd, Albert Einstein, Charles Darwin, Michaelangelo, Bill Gates, Elon Musk, and many others are among these. 

The Autism Society’s #CelebrateDifferences campaign, in honor of Autism Acceptance Month, affirms its pledge to ensure everyone in the Autism community is connected to the support they need when they need it. It ensures that every person with ASD is celebrated as unique, implacable, inimitable, and irreplaceable. 

 support 

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Disclaimer: This is not a medical consultation. It should not replace the instructions to manage your specific medical condition given by your doctor or medical provider. 

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