INFOGRAPHIC: Why is Early Detection and Diagnosis So Important?
What Is Autism?
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a developmental disability that can cause significant social, communication and behavioral challenges. About 1 in 44 children has been identified with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) according to estimates from CDC’s Autism and Developmental Disabilities Monitoring (ADDM) Network. People with ASD have abilities that very significantly. Autism affects each person differently, making it truly a spectrum disorder. People with autism may behave, communicate, interact, and learn in ways that are different from most other people. Some people with ASD need a lot of assistance whereas others live very independently with little to no support. Individuals with autism typically do not have any identifiable characteristics that set them apart from other people. Some children show autism symptoms within the first 12 months. In others, symptoms may not show up until 24 months of age or later. Some children with autism gain new skills and meet developmental milestones until around 18 to 24 months of age, and then they stop gaining new skills or lose the skills they once had.
Signs and Symptoms
People on the autism spectrum often struggle with social interactions and with communication as well as repetitive and restrictive behaviors.
Learn more about the signs and symptoms of Autism Spectrum Disorder, here.
Learn more about important milestones that your child should reaching, here.
Evaluating your Child
Are you seeing the signs of autism in your child, but don’t have an evaluation yet? Early detection and diagnosis is crucial to improved outcomes and increased success and independence in the long run. You can view our list of early signs and symptoms of autism in babies, toddlers, and young children. Then, you can connect with Lighthouse’s network of professionals that have the expertise to fully evaluate your child for autism.
Together, we can unlock your child’s potential
Related News
07/31/2023
How To Handle Socially Inappropriate Behavior in Public
Handling inappropriate behavior from autistic children can be challenging, especially in public settings. With the right strategies and understanding, it’s possible to effectively manage and address these behaviors in a way that supports the child’s needs and promotes their well-being. How To Handle Socially Inappropriate Behavior in Public Handling inappropriate behavior from autistic children can […]
07/31/2023
Overcoming Stereotypes
Autism stereotypes are common and can have significant social consequences for autistic children. Misconceptions hinder the acceptance and inclusion of autistic children. Challenging these stereotypes is vital for creating a more understanding and supportive society. Overcoming Stereotypes We are all prone to prejudices based on stereotypes, especially when it comes to autism. Whenever someone mentions […]
07/31/2023
Neurodiversity
Neurodiversity appreciates variations in how our brains work, celebrating the unique experiences of individuals beyond supposed “neurotypical” norms. It rejects the idea of “fixing” conditions like autism, ADHD, and dyslexia, understanding them as different ways of being. Neurodiversity We’ve heard the term often enough, but what is neurodiversity exactly? A simple definition states that neurodiversity […]
