Autism spectrum disorder is a developmental disability that affects children and adults and has been increasing throughout the years. More children are being diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder which affects the brain as it develops through adulthood. Developmental disabilities make it difficult for socializing, learning, physical movement, and the language area of the brain. Yet, someone with autism can live a healthy happy life with family and with friends. Depending on the level of the autism spectrum disorder, children can learn at their own pace and their learning style.
There
are three levels that teachers and professional educators consider when it
comes to autism. The first level is considered mild, which does not interfere
with school, work, or with socializing to form relationships. The second level
is a challenge because a child at this level needs speech therapy or to learn
how to socialize with their family, friends, and classmates. The third level of
autism is more severe which needs more therapy for language skills, writing,
reading, and other skills with limitations of their abilities. It requires
nonverbal and verbal communication therapy.
One out of thirty-six
children have autism but can live a normal life with proper speech therapy, language,
and educational resources. ASD can be screened and diagnosed beginning at eighteen
months or at twenty-four months. Children can also be screened for stuttering,
hearing, sight, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Parents must
recognize any behavior changes, trouble paying attention, impulsive behavior,
and repetitive movements, not smiling and other facial expressions. As well as
sleep disturbances and being nervous when there is too much sound around them.
It is necessary to know about the special education services that are offered in the schools for autism and other developmental disorders. Children with developmental disorders are visual learners but may need to learn other learning styles depending on the level of the disability. The whole month of April is National Autism Awareness Month where it is encouraged to wear blue, a puzzle ribbon, and donating to the Autism Society. Blue light bulbs can be used to display on your front porch, garden, and creating a sensory garden at home. Also participate in your child’s school activities especially if they have a workshop for autism awareness.
Acceptance is the first step as a parent who is struggling to understand autism spectrum disorder. Additionally, it is important to have acceptance as a society and understand that everyone has different abilities to have influence in the world. As well as not labeling anyone because of a disability. Moreover, everyone needs to educate themselves about developmental disabilities, learning disabilities, and intellectual disabilities. Here are more resources about autism spectrum disorder.
How to Succeed as a College Student with Autism-The Mighty:
How to Succeed as a College Student With Autism (themighty.com)
Screening and Diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder-CDC:
Screening and Diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder | CDC
SPARK-Spark for Autism:
High-Functioning Autism-Asperger's, Autism Levels & More-Healthline:
High-Functioning Autism: Asperger's, Autism Levels & More (healthline.com)
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