Defining Autism
Autism is a complex developmental disability that impacts normal development of the brain in the areas of communication skills and social interaction. Difficulties experienced by both children and adults with autism include:
- Communication (verbal and non-verbal)
- Social skills
- Making and maintaining eye contact
- Paying attention
- Self-help skills (toileting, grooming, feeding, etc.)
- Transitions
Autism is referred to as a “spectrum” disorder by experts because the symptoms and characteristics of autism can present themselves in a wide variety of combinations, from mild to severe.