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Autism
A neurological disorder that begins in childhood and affects three important developmental areas: social interaction, communication, and creative play. Autism is a spectrum disorder, meaning each individual is affected differently and some function more normally than others. It is estimated that one in 150 children may have autism. Children of all races and ethnicities are equally likely to be diagnosed with autism; however, boys appear to be four times more likely than girls to develop it. Early intervention is considered key in helping children learn to adapt in society. A child under age three is eligible for federally funded early intervention treatment, either at home or in a preschool setting.
School aged children are guaranteed an appropriate education under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act. Treatment varies for each child but should be tailored to meet the needs of the child based on qualified evaluation. Generally speaking, various individual and group therapy methods are used to help the child learn to communicate, self-help, and read social cues in order to become self-reliant and able to establish meaningful relationships.