What is Autism?

                                            I have realized this week that I have just written about our journey with Autism but haven't really discussed exactly what Autism is. The Autism Speaks Website defines Autism as : "Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and autism are both general terms for a group of complex disorders of brain development. These disorders are characterized, in varying degrees, by difficulties in social interaction, verbal and nonverbal communication and repetitive  behaviors. Autism statistics from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) identify around 1 in 68 American children as on the autism spectrum–a ten-fold increase in prevalence in 40 years. Careful research shows that this increase is only partly explained by improved diagnosis and awareness. Studies also show that autism is four to five times more common among boys than girls. An estimated 1 out of 42 boys and 1 in 189 girls are diagnosed with autism in the United States. Each individual with autism is unique. Many of those on the autism spectrum have exceptional abilities in visual skills, music and academic skills. About 40 percent have average to above average intellectual abilities. Indeed, many persons on the spectrum take deserved pride in their distinctive abilities and “atypical” ways of viewing the world. Others with autism have significant disability and are unable to live independently. About 25 percent of individuals with ASD are nonverbal but can learn to communicate using other means."
                          Each individual is different....no two people are a like.  Each one has different gifts, needs, sensory issues. People who have Autism are actually extremely intelligent and some of the most famous people are on the spectrum. I have read that people such as Mozart, Tim Burton, Susan Boyle, Daryl Hannah as well as Dan Aykroyd have either been suspected of having Autism or they have officially been diagnosed and have chosen to share it publicly in order to raise awareness. The video that I am sharing in this blog is probably one of the best explanations of Autism that I have heard. Please take the time to watch it as I believe it will be helpful in understanding exactly what Autism is, how people who have it see the world and how they view it and how all of us can learn to communicate and include them in our daily lives. Please also share this with your teens as they can learn to be a blessing to those friends that they may have in school that are on the spectrum.  This can be educational to them on how to befriend and understand other students on the spectrum. We all can learn so many things from these beautifully gifted individuals.  Enjoy!  :)