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What is autism?
Autism is a disorder that affects the way people communicate with each other. The brain of a child with autism works differently than that of other children. Because of this, the child develops differently. Parents often worry about autism if their toddler doesn't talk like other children in the same age group.
Of every 1,000 children, two to six have autism. Boys are four times more likely to have it than girls.
What kinds of problems do children with autism face?
Autism affects every child differently, but there are some common traits. Children with autism may:
Communication
- Talk late or not at all
- Point or use other motions to indicate needs
- Repeat words or phases, but not understand their meaning
- Speak loudly or in flat tones
Social skills
- Prefer to be alone
- Be interested in others, but not know how to interact
- Dislike being held or touched
- Have poor eye contact
- Be poor listeners, and have one-sided conversations
- Have trouble understanding feelings - those of others as well as their own
Behaviors
- Enjoy routine and become upset with change
- Be sensitive to sounds, textures and other things experienced by the senses
- Be unusually attached to one interest or item
- Have tantrums or show aggression
How will I know if my child has autism?
Talk to your doctor if you feel your child isn't developing normally. (An example would be if your child doesn't babble or wave bye-bye by age 12 months.) Your doctor will watch your child's behavior and look for normal developmental milestones. Finding autism early helps you to get a head start on treatment. It also means better progress for your child.
Treatment: children younger than three
Young children are referred to early intervention programs. These are available in every state. These programs focus on specific problem areas, usually including speech and behavioral therapies. Children learn social skills and are rewarded for good behavior.
Children with coordination or balance problems can work with physical therapists. Early intervention programs train parents to work with their children at home.
Ways to work with your child
- Have set routines, at home and away.
- Give your child rewards for good behavior. For example, let your child play with a favorite toy when he or she does well.
- Show your child affection in as many ways as possible. All children do better with lots of nurturing.
Treatment: age three and older
Special education is usually available through public schools and private centers. Along with special education, your child will probably work on language and behavior. Children with autism are often part of a regular classroom.
Medicines
There is help for your child's behavior problems. Your child can function better in school and in other social situations with the help of medication. Medications for anxiety and depression can help with repetitive behaviors. They can also improve social skills, like making eye contact. If your child is hyperactive, attention deficit disorder (ADD) medicines can help.
What will happen to my child?
Although people don't "get over" autism, they can live meaningful and successful lives. Many adults live on their own and work at highly-skilled jobs, like computer programming. Others need assistance throughout their lives. Their success as adults depends on their intelligence and personality, and how they get along with others.
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This article was reviewed and updated June 2007.
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