About Autism
A Different Way of Seeing the World
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a complex neurological disorder that affects brain development and has a lifelong effect on various abilities and skills. There is no known cause of autism. Individuals with autism often exhibit specific behaviours such as:
People with autism may experience difficulties in social, motor, intellectual, and emotional development. They may also experience delayed speech, and have problems with communicating |
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Why "Spectrum?"
In 2013 the DSM-V categorization of autism changed to include Asperger's, Rett syndrome, childhood disintegrative disorder, and PDD under the designation of ASD. This means a much wider variety of severity and functioning ability.
ASD is also considered to be on a spectrum because it affects each person differently. People with autism may be anywhere from mildly impaired (high-functioning), to severely impaired (low-functioning) and completely nonverbal. As teachers it's essential that we recognize the many forms autism can take in the classroom. Although there are some common characteristics associated with autism, it is crucial that we avoid generalizations. Educators must remember that no child with autism is the same and we must get to know the unique abilities and struggles of the child. Variations occur in social communication skills, levels of functioning, age of onset, language abilities and assistance needed.
Signs to look for:
- Lack of, or delayed speech
- Repeating language or mannerisms (flapping hands, twirling objects)
- Not giving any, or very little eye contact
- Continuous fixation on parts, or objects, rather than engaging in spontaneous play
- Lack of interest in socializing with others
Benefits of Early Identification:
- Positive benefits of early diagnosis and intervention -ages 2-3
- Children who get early intervention do better than those who do not
- Children who's intervention is delayed may be more likely to experience poorer academic achievement, and increased risk of developing behaviour and emotional problems
- Elementary school teachers might be the first ones to recognize signs of Autism
- Prevalence of ASD:
- In the U.S., 1 in 68 children (1 in 42 boys and 1 in 189 girls) have Autism Spectrum Disorder
- Autism is 5x more common in boys than girls
- ASD has been dramatically increasing, likely due to increased awareness and diagnosis.
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Rosie King TEDMED Talk 2014.
Rosie King, a self-diagnosed teenager from the UK with Asperger's Syndrome, explains how her autism has allowed her to embrace her individuality. She thanks her autism for her vivid imagination and says that she wouldn't change it for the world. King asks us to consider what it means to be "normal" and what this means for people who don't fit into the mould. A truly inspiring young woman, King stresses the importance of celebrating uniqueness in all shapes and sizes, including those with autism spectrum disorder. |
Works Cited
http://www.autismspeaks.ca/about-autism/what-is-autism/
http://www.tedmed.com/talks/show?id=292940
http://www.autism-society.org/what-is/
http://shp.missouri.edu/vhct/case4108/id_benefits.htm
http://www.tedmed.com/talks/show?id=292940
http://www.autism-society.org/what-is/
http://shp.missouri.edu/vhct/case4108/id_benefits.htm