What is Autism?
What is Autism Spectrum Disorder?
Autism is not a single disorder. It is a group of closely-related, complex developmental brain disorders that share a core set of symptoms, commonly known as Autism Spectrum Disorder.
Commonly known Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD):
- PDD-NOS (Pervasive Developmental Delay – Not Otherwise Specified)
- Autism or Autistic Disorder
- Asperger’s Syndrome
- Rett’s Syndrome
- Childhood Disintegrative Disorder
Having ASD makes it challenging for children to relate and communicate with the world around them. The condition is a result of neurological disorder that prevents various areas of the brain from working together, thus delaying development of a person’s communication and social interaction skills. Every child diagnosed with ASD has their own unique abilities, symptoms and will face their own unique challenges
Autism cannot be cured. Most people with ASD will always have some difficulty relating others. But early intervention programs have been shown to have the best results for children and their families who are faced with this condition. As a parent, educating yourself will help you get a handle on the terminology and make it easier to communicate with the team of doctors, teachers, therapists, etc., who are working with your child.
Learn More about Autism:
What is ABA? What is Applied Behavior Analysis?
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is widely recognized as a safe and effective treatment for children with autism. ABA principles and techniques cultivate basic skills such as making eye contact and imitating desired behavior as well as complex skills such as making conversation with and learning to understand the perspective of others.
ABA is based on data collection combined with continual analysis such that the treatment team is able to update the treatment plan as needed, thus creating the most effective program for the child. Lessons are broken down to their simplest elements. Children are presented with stimulus through repetition. Positive reinforcement is used to recognize correct responses and behaviors, incorrect responses are ignored.