by Ian Sheldon

Autism is a condition, usually more common in male children, that impairs verbal interaction with others. This might make the child seem withdrawn from society and they might find it difficult to mix and make friends with other children.

There are different ‘levels’ of autism, and in its most extreme form it may be that the child has to live with medication and supervision for the rest of his or her adult life.

For adults autism can be a struggle, especially when it remains undiagnosed. However they are urged to seek advice and assistance because in most cases there is no reason why, with a little bit of support, the child can’t live a normal or near-normal life.

Here are 5 facts about autism:

1. Autism is a condition, often life long, that causes children to be less responsive to stimulation in the environment they are in. This means that they might not be able to smile or share emotion.

2. It is possible that children who suffer from autism might show signs of abnormal behavior such as temper, staring into space or objects or simply rocking whilst sitting.

3. Autism can affect the child’s ability to learn. This means that they might have difficulties with some of the tasks we take for granted as part of growing up such as toilet training.

4. Autism can cause difficulties with communication. For example language might appear immature and stilted. It is also common for children to show what appears to be a lack of imagination and therefore struggle to interact with other children during play.

5. Autism can cause a child to become resistant to change. An autistic child can become focused and obsessive about a particular item or action. If change occurs, this may impact the behavior of the child, as discussed in point 2.

The important thing to remember for parents of autistic sufferers is that they are not alone. There are many avenues that can be taken that provide support and assistance for both the family and the learning development of the child. It is important that the children are given equal opportunities to integrate with society as much as possible.

About the Author
High Grange is a specialist of Autism School for Children and Young People with Autistic Spectrum Disorder and associated learning, communication and behavioral difficulties.