Myths About Autism
Myth: People with Autism are like Rainman.
The movie Rainman was based on a character portraying Savantism, which is a more rare form of Autism. Savantism is estimated to effect about 10% of people with Autism to a certain degree, but is hardly an accurate account of the way most people on the spectrum interact or behave.
Myth: Autism goes hand in hand with mental retardation.
Although Autism and MR can co-exist, it is felt that more empirical evidence is needed in order to identify a percentage of persons affected by both. To date, there is no scientific evidence that correlates the incidence of Autism with mental retardation.
Myth: Children with Autism do not speak.
While speech delays are common in kids with ASD, it is wrong to assume that as a general population they do not speak. Most children with Autism can talk, and others use alternative methods of communication such a picture exchanges, signing or electronic communication devices, rather than verbal speech.
Myth: Children with Autism are unaffectionate.
This myth is by far the hardest for most parents to deal with, since children with Autism are usually very affectionate and bonded with their family members. Relationship building with peers is more difficult for children with ASD, however; affection is something most kids with Autism have no trouble displaying.
Facts About Autism
- 1 of 150 children are diagnosed with Autism
- Boys are four time likely to be affected by Autism
- A new case of Autism is diagnosed every 20 minutes
- 80% of individuals with Autism learn to talk
- More children will be diagnosed with Autism this year, than with AIDS, Diabetes and Cancer combined.
TOP
Know The Signs
The following list of early warning signs does not indicate your child has Autism. It is important that parents understand Autism comes in many forms, and a child with Autism may possess none or all of these things. Knowing the signs will empower you and make you more knowledgeable when addressing the possibility of Autism in your child.
- Does not babble, point, or make meaningful gestures by 1 year of age
- Does not speak one word by 16 months
- Does not combine two words by 2 years
- Does not respond to name
- Appears to be in their "own little world"
- Loses language or social skills at any time
- Lack of eye contact
- Plays with toys inappropriately, eg. spins wheels of cars rather than
push along the floor
- Lines up, or sorts objects excessively
- Lack of joint attention, eg. bringing toys to show you, or looking back to
reference an action
- Lack of smiling
- Appears to be deaf at times
TOP
Regressive VS Classic Autism
There is still much to be learned about the causes of Autism and how it originates. Unfortunately, it is known that children are at risk of Regressive Autism up until they reach 36 months. A child who suffers a regression develops typically in comparison to peers, then begins to lose skills and may begin to display autistic tendencies.
Parents should be vigilant when watching their children's development, and trust their instincts when suspecting a problem. Keep in mind that all children are different and unique individuals that develop at their own pace. If you suspect Autism in your child, ACT Now Nevada can guide you in the right direction for screenings and treatment.
Please contact us today!
