Autism or autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex developmental disability; refer to a broad range of conditions characterized by challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviors, speech, and nonverbal commutation. ASD is defined by a certain set of behaviors and is a “spectrum condition” that affects individuals differently and to varying degrees.
There is no known single cause of autism, but increased awareness and early diagnosis/intervention and access to appropriate services/ support lead to significantly improved outcomes. Some of the behaviors associated with autism include delayed learning of language; difficulty making eye contact or holding a Conversation; difficulty with executive functioning, which relates to reasoning and planning; narrow, intense interests; poor motor skills’ and sensory sensitivities. Again, a person on the spectrum might follow many of these behaviors or just a few, or many others besides. The diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder is applied based on the analysis of all behaviors and their severity.
Autism’s hallmark signs usually appear by age 2 to 3. Often, it can be diagnosed as early as 18 months. Some associated development delays can appear even earlier.
Early Intervention Can Change A Life
Research has made clear that high-quality early intervention can improve learning, communication, and social skills, as well as underlying brain development.
