Educating Susan to Assist Others Blog: 2012-12-30

Friday, January 4, 2013

Autism Speaks Canada

All information below is to inform individuals about the resources available on

the Autism Speaks Canada Website. Please visit the website for comprehensive

details.

What is Autism?

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... Read on at link below.

http://www.autismspeaks.ca/about-autism/what-is-autism/

Developmental Milestones

Milestones enable parents and physicians to monitor a baby's learning, behaviour, and development. While each child develops differently, some differences may indicate a slight delay and others may be a cause for greater concern. The following milestones provide important guidelines for tracking healthy development from four months to five years of age... Read on at link below.

http://www.autismspeaks.ca/about-autism/early-warning-signs/developmental-milestones/

Learn About the Symptoms

Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are characterized by social-interaction difficulties, communication challenges and a tendency to engage in repetitive behaviors. However, symptoms and their severity vary widely across these three core areas. Read on at link below. http://www.autismspeaks.ca/about-autism/what-is-autism/learn-about-the-symptoms/

Associated Medical Conditions

http://www.autismspeaks.ca/about-autism/what-is-autism/associated-medical-conditions/

Facts and Stats

Did you know? ...

Autism now affects 1 in 88 children and 1 in 54 boys (March 2012 statistic)

The 2012 numbers reflect a 78% increase in reported prevalence in the last 6 years

Autism prevalence figures are growing

Boys are four times more likely than girls to have autism

There is no medical detection or cure for autism

http://www.autismspeaks.ca/about-autism/facts-and-stats/

Early Warning Signs

Research now suggests that children as young as one year old can show some early warning signs of autism. The most important thing you can do as a parent or caregiver is to learn the early signs of autism and understand the typical developmental milestones your child should be reaching at different ages. If you have any concerns about your child's development, don't wait. Speak to your doctor about screening your child for autism. While validated screening for autism starts typically only as young as 16 months ... Read on at link below.

http://www.autismspeaks.ca/about-autism/early-warning-signs/

How is Autism Diagnosed

The Modified Checklist of Autism in Toddlers (M-CHAT) is a list of informative questions about your child. The answers can indicate whether he or she should be further evaluated by a specialist such as a developmental pediatrician, neurologist, psychiatrist or psychologist. Read on at link below

http://www.autismspeaks.ca/about-autism/how-is-autism-diagnosed/