What is an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)?

1 out of every 150 Children are affected
with an Autism Spectrum Disorder

Autism Spectrum Disorders are lifelong neurological disorders. They generally appear before the age of three and are among the most common developmental disabilities in the world. The ASD spectrum includes; Autistic Disorder, Asperger Syndrome, PDD-NOS and Rett Syndrome). Each individual with an ASD is unique. However there are common early characteristics that may be observed:

Difficulty speaking and understanding language
Poorly developed social skills
Repetitive behavior such as spinning objects or rocking
Difficulty with changes to surroundings or routines
Inability to interact socially with others

The prevalence rate for Autism Spectrum Disorders has increased by 15-20 times in the past 10 years. The specific causes of Autism Spectrum Disorders remain a mystery, although most scientists believe there is a biological cause that affects the workings of the brain. Autism Spectrum Disorders cross barriers of race, ethnicity and social class.

Autism is a part of our world,
not a world apart.