Community Magazine December 2013

2 COMMUNITY MAGAZINE WHAT IS AUTISM? WHAT IS AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDER? Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and autism are both general terms for a group of complex disorders of brain development. These disorders are characterized, in varying degrees, by difficulties in social interaction, verbal and nonverbal communication and repetitive behaviors. ASD can be associated with intellectual disability, difficulties in motor coordination and attention and physical health issues such as sleep and gastrointestinal disturbances. Some persons withASD excel in visual skills, music, math and art. Autism appears to have its roots in very early brain development. However, the most obvious signs of autism and symptoms of autism tend to emerge between 2 and 3 years of age. IFYOUR CHILD EXHIBITS ANY OFTHE FOLLOWING, PLEASE DON’T DELAY INASKINGYOUR PEDIATRICIAN OR FAMILY DOCTOR FORAN EVALUATION: reach for the stars l e a r n i n g c e n t e r Early detection of autism allows for early intervention with behavior therapies that can improve outcomes. Current American Academy of Pediatrics guidelines call for screening all toddlers at 18 and 24 months, the age at which existing screening methods are best able to identify children with autism. Physicians have lacked validated autism screens for younger children – until now. • No big smiles or other warm, joyful expressions by six months or thereafter • No back-and-forth sharing of sounds, smiles or other facial expressions by nine months • No babbling by 12 months • No back-and-forth gestures such as pointing, showing, reaching or waving by 12 months • No words by 16 months • No meaningful, two-word phrases (not including imitating or repeating) by 24 months • Any loss of speech, babbling or social skills at any age