DEFINITION:
The Autism Society of America defines autism in the following way:
Autism is a complex developmental disability that typically appears during the first three years
of life and is the result of a neurological disorder that affects the normal functioning of the
brain, impacting development in the areas of social interaction and communication skills. Both
children and adults with autism typically show difficulties in verbal and non-verbal
communication, social interactions, and leisure or play activities. One should keep in mind
however, that autism is a spectrum disorder and it affects each individual differently and at
varying degrees - this is why early diagnosis is so crucial. By learning the signs, a child can
begin benefiting from one of the many specialized intervention programs.
Autism is one of five disorders that falls under the umbrella of Pervasive Developmental
Disorders (PDD), a category of neurological disorders characterized by “severe and pervasive
impairment in several areas of development.”
The five disorders under PDD are:
Autistic Disorder
Asperger's Disorder
Childhood Disintegrative Disorder (CDD)
Rett's Disorder
PDD-Not Otherwise Specified (PDD-NOS)
COMMUNICATION THERAPY:
Given the vast differences across the autism spectrum, some children with autism are able to
communicate through speech, but others may require an Augmentative/Alternative
communication system. Such systems can include communication boards, sign language, PECS
(Picture Exchange Communication System), etc.
Your speech-language pathologist may recommend using one, or several systems, in order to
find the communication method which will be best for your child and your family.
