What is Autism?
Autism is a neurological, developmental disorder that affects the way individuals think, interact, and behave. The three core areas of impairment in autism are:
* Language and Communication
* Social Interaction
* Behavior - Restricted and Repetitive Patterns of Behavior
Autism is considered a spectrum disorder - this means that individuals diagnosed with autism exhibit a range of functioning levels and abilities. Some individuals with autism may also have intellectual disabilities whereas others may have IQ's within the superior range. The autism spectrum includes individuals with autism and Asperger's Syndrome as well as Rett Syndrome, Childhood Disintegrative Disorder, and PDD NOS (Pervasive Developmental Disorder - Not Otherwise Specified). Many individuals with autism also have challenges with sensory integration and may show signs of under- or over-sensitivity in a variety of sensory areas.