What is Autism?
Autism is a lifelong neuro-developmental disability that affects the development of the brain in areas of social interaction and communication.
People with autism have difficulty communicating and forming relationships with people, as well as developing language and in using abstract concepts. It also impacts on their ability to make sense of the world around them.
Autism is often referred to as the ‘hidden’ disability because people who are on the autism spectrum show no significant physical difference to their peers. Typically, it is their behaviour that appears different to others.
Although autism will affect each person differently, some common characteristics can include:
Communication
- Difficulty expressing wants/needs/emotions
- Difficulty understanding non-verbal cues & gestures
- Literal interpretations
Social Interaction
- Lack of interest in interaction
- Limited use of gestures
- Difficulty understanding others perspectives
- Difficulties with conversational turn-taking
- Difficulty making eye contact
Behaviour
- Insistence on same & reliance on routines
- Intense and limited interests
- Stereotyped or repetitive movements such as rocking, flapping hands, walking in lines
- Over or under sensitivity to sensory experiences (e.g. sounds, smells, lights, etc.)
What is ASD?
Autism is also referred to as autism spectrum disorder, or ASD. This is because the symptoms and characteristics of autism can present themselves in a wide variety of combinations and can range from mild to severe. Two people with the same diagnosis can act very differently from one another and have varying skills.
Our therapists have been specialising in supporting children and families living with ASD for over two decades, and are available to provide a range of services to help your child reach his or her potential.
Early Intervention for Autism and Autism Spectrum Disorder
For children with Autism and/or Autism Spectrum Disorder, early intervention is important to ensure that behavioural development is supported effectively.
For more information on early intervention please visit Early Intervention for Autism.