What is Autism?

The first National Autism Awareness Month was declared by the Autism Society in April 1970. The

aim of this month is educate the public about autism.

Autism is a complex mental condition and developmental disability, characterized by difficulties in the way a person communicates and interacts with other people. Autism can be be present from birth or form during early childhood (typically within the first three years). Autism is a lifelong developmental disability with no single known cause

. Parents usually notice signs in the first two years of their child's life. Autism appears to have its roots in very early brain development. The signs and symptoms of autism vary widely, as do its effects. Some autistic children have only mild impairments, while others have more obstacles to overcome. However, every child on the autism spectrum has problems, to some degree, in the following three areas:

1. Communicating verbally and non-verbally

2. Relating to others and the world around them

3. Thinking and behaving flexibly

Early Signs And Symptoms of Autism in Children And Toddlers 

• Doesn’t make eye contact (e.g. look at you when being fed).
• Doesn't smile when smiled at.
• Doesn't respond to his or her name or to the sound of a familiar voice.
• Doesn’t follow objects visually.
• Doesn't point or wave goodbye or use other gestures to communicate.
• Doesn’t follow the gesture when you point things out.
• Doesn’t make noises to get your attention.
• Doesn’t initiate or respond to cuddling.
• Doesn’t imitate your movements and facial expressions.
• Doesn’t reach out to be picked up.
• Doesn’t play with other people or share interest and enjoyment.
• Doesn’t ask for help or make other basic requests.

There are different opinions among doctors, parents, and experts about what causes autism and how best to treat it, and much that we still don’t know. But on one fact, everyone agrees: early and intensive intervention helps. For children at risk and children who show early signs, it can make all the difference.