Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
There are five classifications on the Autism Spectrum:
Autism
Asperger syndrome
Rett syndrome
Pervasive Development Disorder Not Otherwise Specified (PDDNOS)
Childhood Disintegrative Disorder
ASDs are neurological disorders that affect a child's ability to communicate, understand language and social cues, participate with or relate to fellow peers, adjust to changes in routine or familiar surroundings, and control overactive or repetitive body movements or behaviors. Some or all of these characteristics can be found within all five classifications on the spectrum, ranging from mild to severe.
Currently there is no known cause of Autism; however, national awareness is continuously increasing. The following signs are common ones to look for in developing children:
Autism
Asperger syndrome
Rett syndrome
Pervasive Development Disorder Not Otherwise Specified (PDDNOS)
Childhood Disintegrative Disorder
ASDs are neurological disorders that affect a child's ability to communicate, understand language and social cues, participate with or relate to fellow peers, adjust to changes in routine or familiar surroundings, and control overactive or repetitive body movements or behaviors. Some or all of these characteristics can be found within all five classifications on the spectrum, ranging from mild to severe.
Currently there is no known cause of Autism; however, national awareness is continuously increasing. The following signs are common ones to look for in developing children:
- Lack of or delay in spoken language
- Repetitive use of language and/or motor mannerisms
- Little or no eye contact
- Lack of interest in peer relationships
- Lack of spontaneous or make-believe play
- Persistent fixation on parts of objects