Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

Any of a group of developmental disorders marked by impairments in the ability to communicate and interact socially and by the presence of repetitive behaviors or restricted interests. Cause
Scientists arent certain what causes ASD, but its likely that both genetics and environment play a role.

Symptoms
Resists snuggling ` Makes little eye contact Shows little or no expressions No or less pointing to objects Difficulty to recognize what people or thinking

6 Teaching strategies for ASD

Create a classroom routine Use preparatory commands and commands of execution to cue transitions Give fewer choices Uses appropriate technology Treat them like any other kid as much as possible Find their thing but be aware of aversions.

Say no single words by 15 months

Responds to sounds May refer to self as you May have a good rote memory

Resource Guide

Autism Society of America 10015 Old Columbia Rd Columbia, MD 21046 410-290-6231 www.howard-autism.org Families for Intensive Autism treatment P.O. Box 341643 Bethesda, MD 20827-1643 301-419-8037 www.fiatmd.org Maryland Asperger Advocacy and Support Group www.aspergers.org

Treatments
An evaluation by an SLP should be completed to determine social skills and communication needs. An appropriate treatment plan will then be established to meet the childs needs. Treatment may include any combination of speech and language approaches, augmentative and alternative communication, and behavioral interventions. It is also good to have the child hearing tested to make sure their hearing is not gone.

Statistics
1% of the population of children in the U.S. ages 3-17 have an autism spectrum disorder. 1 to 1.5 million Americans lives with an autism spectrum disorder. Fastest-growing developmental disability growth rate 10-17% annual growth The cost of autism over the lifespan is 3.2 million dollars per person. Only 56% of students with autism finish High school.

References
www.autism-society.org www.autismspeaks.org www.nimh.nih.gov

By: Blair Lenz