Autism is a brain development disorder that impairs social interaction and communication, and causes restricted and repetitive behavior, all starting before a child is three years old. This set of signs distinguishes autism from milder autism spectrum disorders (ASD) such as Asperger syndrome. Experts feel that Autism is transmitted as a hereditary disease, but the genetics of autism are complex and how this process occurs is poorly understood.

According to the Autism Society of America, at www.autism-society.org, last year the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention issued their ADDME autism prevalence report, concluding that the prevalence of autism had risen to 1 in every 150 American children, and almost 1 in 94 boys. The society, which recognizes April as National Autism Awareness Month, says the number of people known to have autism has increased dramatically since the 1980’s, likely due in part to changes in diagnostic practice; the question of whether actual prevalence has increased is unresolved.

Parents usually notice signs in the first two years of their child’s life. Children do not “outgrow” autism, but studies show that early diagnosis and intervention lead to significantly improved outcomes. Children with autism can display a wide range of symptoms, which can vary in severity from mild to disabling. Some of the most common problems faced by children with autism include:

• Difficulty in using a language socially. Children with Autism find it really difficult to use a language socially. They take everything literally and often do not understand slang and jokes.

• Trouble with social understanding. A child suffering from classical autism is unable to grasp any kind of social interaction and often suffers from withdrawal symptoms. The child tries his best to understand, but most of the time, their “social naiveté” results in some misunderstandings.

• Lack of spontaneous or make-believe play. Children with autism find it really difficult to imagine. They struggle hard to make out what can happen next. They often have an unreasonable insistence on following routines in detail. They also have a general lack of interest in peer relationships.

• Repetitive use of language and/or motor mannerisms. A child with autism often has repetitive body movements, or patterns of behavior, such as hand flapping, spinning, twirling of objects and head-banging.

• Unique ways of playing with toys. Kids with autism often display unusual ways of playing, such as playing with toys by lining them up a certain way.
• Little or no eye contact. Autistic children avoid eye contact and find it difficult to participate in conversations, even when the child has the ability to speak. They have difficulty with nonverbal communication, such as gestures and facial expressions.

Living with autism can involve a lot of stress for the individual as well as family members. The treatment provided varies from one person to another. Some kids with mild autism will grow up and be able to live on their own. Those with more serious problems will always need some kind of help. Doctors, therapists, and special teachers can help kids with autism adjust or even overcome many difficulties. The earlier a kid starts treatment for autism, the better.

Source: http://www.autism-society.org.

For more information on autism, including ways to better explain this disorder to children, visit www.kidshealth.org. The KidsHealth site includes thousands of in-depth features, articles, games, and resources – all developed by experts in the health of children and teens. The site has separate areas for kids, teens, and parents, each with age-appropriate content.