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People with Asperger syndrome generally develop spoken language in the same way as typically developing children but have a tough time with social communication.

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When you meet someone who has Asperger's syndrome, you might notice two things right off. He's just as smart as other folks, but he has more trouble with social skills. He also tends to have an obsessive focus on one topic or perform the same behaviors again and again.

Doctors used to think of Asperger's as a separate condition. But in 2013, the newest edition of the standard book that mental health experts use, called The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders ( DSM-5), changed how it's classified.

Today, Asperger's syndrome is technically no longer a diagnosis on its own. It is now part of a broader category called autism spectrum disorder (ASD). This group of related mental health issues shares some symptoms. Even so, lots of people still use the term Asperger's.

The condition is what doctors call a "high-functioning" type of ASD. This means the symptoms are less severe than other kinds of autism spectrum disorders.

The DSM-5 also includes a new diagnosis, called social pragmatic communication disorder, which has some symptoms that overlap with Asperger's. Doctors use it to describe people who have trouble talking and writing, but have normal intelligence.

Symptoms

They start early in life. If you're a mom or dad of a kid who has it, you may notice that he can't make eye contact. You may also find that your child seems awkward in social situations and doesn't know what to say or how to respond when someone talks to him.

He may miss social cues that are obvious to other folks, like body language or the expressions on people's faces. For instance, he may not realize that when somebody crosses his arms and scowls, he's angry.

Another sign is that your child may show few emotions. He may not smile when he's happy or laugh at a joke. Or he may speak in a flat, robotic kind of way.

If your child has the condition, he may talk about himself most of the time and zero in with a lot of intensity on a single subject, like rocks or football stats. And he might repeat himself a lot, especially on a topic that he's interested in. He might also do the same movements over and over.

He also may dislike change. For instance, he may eat the same food for breakfast every day or have trouble moving from one class to another during the school day.

Continued

How You Get a Diagnosis

If you notice signs in your child, see your pediatrician. He can refer you to a mental health expert who specializes in ASDs, like one of these:

Psychologist. He diagnoses and treats problems with emotions and behavior.

Pediatric neurologist. He treats conditions of the brain.

Developmental pediatrician. He specializes in speech and language issues and other developmental problems.

Psychiatrist. He has expertise in mental health conditions and can prescribe medicine to treat them.

The condition is often treated with a team approach. That means you might see more than one doctor for your child's care.

The doctor will ask questions about your child's behavior, including:

What symptoms does he have, and when did you first notice them?

When did your child first learn to speak, and how does he communicate?

Is he focused on any subjects or activities?

Does he have friends, and how does he interact with others?

Then he'll observe your child in different situations to see firsthand how he communicates and behaves.

Treatment

Every child is different, so there isn't a one-size-fits-all approach. Your doctor might need to try a few therapies to find one that works.

Treatments can include:

Social skills training. In groups or one-on-one sessions, therapists teach your child how to interact with others and express themselves in more appropriate ways. Social skills are often best learned by modeling after typical behavior.

Speech-language therapy. This helps improve your kid's communication skills. For example, he'll learn how to use a normal up-and-down pattern when he speaks rather than a flat tone. He'll also get lessons on how to keep up a two-way conversation and understand social cues like hand gestures and eye contact.

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). It helps your child change his way of thinking, so he can better control his emotions and repetitive behaviors. He'll be able to get a handle on things like outbursts, meltdowns, and obsessions.

Parent education and training. You'll learn many of the same techniques your child is taught so you can work on social skills with him at home. Some families also see a counselor to help them deal with the challenges of living with someone with Asperger's.

Continued

Applied behavior analysis. It's a technique that encourages positive social and communication skills in your child -- and discourages behavior you'd rather not see. The therapist will use praise or other "positive reinforcement" to get results.

Medicine. There aren't any drugs approved by the FDA that specifically treat Asperger's or autism spectrum disorders. Some medications, though, can help with related symptoms like depression and anxiety. Your doctor may prescribe some of these:

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)

Antipsychotic drugs

Stimulant medicines

With the right treatment, your child can learn to control some of the social and communication challenges he faces. He can do well in school and go on to succeed in life.

Sources

SOURCES:

American Academy of Pediatrics: "New DSM-5 includes changes to autism criteria."

American Psychiatric Association: "Autism Spectrum Disorder," "Social (Pragmatic) Communication Disorder."

Asperger/Autism Network: "Asperger Syndrome Diagnosis in Children."

Autism Society: "Asperger's Syndrome."

Autism Speaks: "Answers to Frequently Asked Questions about DSM-5," "Asperger Syndrome," "Interventions and Treatment Options," "Social Communication Disorder: Parents Seek Guidance."

National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke: "Autism Spectrum Disorder Fact Sheet."

Nemours Foundation: "Asperger Syndrome."

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When you meet someone who has Asperger's syndrome, you might notice two things right off. He's just as smart as other folks, but he has more trouble with social skills. He also tends to have an obsessive focus on one topic or perform the same behaviors again and again.

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High-functioning autism (HFA) is neither an official diagnosis nor is there an agreed-upon definition of what the term means. In the broadest sense of the term, high-functioning autism may mean any of the following:

A person with relatively mild symptoms which, despite their mildness, are significant enough to merit an autism spectrum diagnosis.

A person with autism whose IQ is higher than 70

A person with autism who is successfully navigating a typical school or work environment

A person who is able to mask symptoms of autism successfully so they have in expected ways and can "pass" for neurotypical

A person who, at one point, had an Asperger syndrome diagnosis

Adding to the confusion is the fact that many people with autism may be bright and accomplished yet have severe symptoms (such as anxiety and sensory dysfunction) that significantly impact their daily functioning.

HFA vs. Asperger Syndrome

Until 2013, many people who might be said to have high-functioning autism were diagnosed with either Asperger syndrome or PDD-NOS (pervasive developmental disorder not otherwise specified). But there are differences that set the two diagnoses apart:

Asperger syndrome was a distinct diagnosis which described a person of average or higher-than-average intelligence and age-appropriate language skills who also had significant social and communication challenges.

PDD-NOS was a catch-all diagnosis. Often understood to mean the same thing as "high functioning autistic," it really incorporated individuals at all functional levels whose symptoms didn't fully correlate with classic autism.

Perhaps more significantly, people with Asperger syndrome do seem to share certain personal characteristics that are not shared by all people with higher IQs and autism. For example, anxiety is often a symptom of Asperger syndrome but not one shared by everyone who might be described as having HFA.

As of 2013, with the publication of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition ( DSM-5), neither PDD-NOS nor Asperger syndrome is an official diagnostic category in the United States.

HFA and Level 1 Autism

With the release of DSM-5, instead of separate diagnoses, there is just one big group of people diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD)

But people with autism are still very different from one another. So, to clarify these differences, the DSM-5 also includes functional levels. People who are bright and verbal are generally given the diagnosis of level 1 ASD.

Still, the distinction doesn't offer a clear characterization of what level 1 ASD actually is. For example:

People with level 1 ASD can show affection, complete daily tasks, and use age-appropriate language, reading, and math skills. On the other hand, they can't hold eye contact, maintain a conversation, engage in play, or pick up on social cues.

People with level 1 ASD can have significant speech and language delays but are able to take part in an inclusive academic program because of their age-appropriate academic skills.

People with level 1 ASD can have relatively mild speech and social delays but have severe sensory issues which make it impossible for them to take part in an inclusive academic program.

People with level 1 ASD can have severe anxiety, learning disabilities, and sensory challenges but have age-appropriate speech and exceptional abilities in music, math, and engineering.

With a level 1 ASD diagnosis, the possible combinations of strengths and challenges are almost endless. This not only makes the characterization of behaviors difficult, it can leave you confused as to what level of skilled support is needed.

Determining the Appropriate Support

While few people with high-functioning autism need help with using the toilet or basic hygiene, they may very well need a good deal of support in other settings. For example, a very bright individual with severe sensory issues, anxiety, and perseveration might actually have a more difficult time in the workplace than a less intelligent individual with less anxiety and fewer sensory issues.

What's more, a "lower-functioning" individual might spend most of his day in a supported setting where the possibility of dangerous interactions is almost zero. Meanwhile, the high-functioning individual may need to navigate a world full of complex and hazardous situations.

While it may be reasonable to think that people with high-functioning autism need less support, they are often faced with greater challenges in a real-world setting compared to a lesser-functioning people in institutional care.

Navigating the Challenges

Autism is a puzzle-not because individuals with autism are so puzzling, but because the ever-changing definitions of autism mean we cannot come to a final conclusion.

And not only are the definitions changing but so are the social expectations that make high functioning autism so challenging. In the past, face-to-face communication was the key to personal success; today, many people with social challenges are more than capable of interacting with others online, making friends through social media, and even holding down a job at a distance.

Some businesses like Google are hiring high-functioning autistic people because of their unique abilities, while others cannot imagine hiring a person with compromised social skills.

If this leaves you feeling that the definition of high functioning autism is clear as mud, you're not alone. At least now, however, you understand why the term is so tough to nail down-and you know you're in good company.

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Why High Functioning Autism Is Hard to Define

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High-functioning autism (HFA) is neither an official diagnosis nor is there an agreed-upon definition of what the term means. In the broadest sense of the term, high-functioning autism may mean any of the following: A person with relatively mild symptoms which, despite their mildness, are significant enough to merit an autism spectrum diagnosis.

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Those individuals may, however, have significant problems with social communication. They may also have problems coping with too much sensory input (loud noise, bright lights, etc.).

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Mild autism is an unofficial term commonly used to refer to a diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder level 1. Mildly autistic people have less noticeable traits (that they often mask) and have low support needs. However, challenges can include social interaction, reading social cues, understanding body language, and deciphering facial expressions.

Because these traits can be subtle, mild autism is often missed during early intervention screenings in childhood. As a result, people with the condition tend to be diagnosed at an older age, possibly adulthood.

This article discusses mild autism in adults and children. It describes traits of autism with low support needs, how they are often overlooked, and how they may eventually be diagnosed.

What Are Traits of Mild Autism?

The term "mild autism" can be confusing unless you know that autism is a spectrum disorder with traits that range from the least to most intense.

Autistic people with mild traits, those with intense challenges, and autistic people in between are all diagnosed with ASD. However, their diagnoses are further classified by level. There are three, each of which is defined by the amount of support a person may need.

Level 1 autism describes people who need the least support for the activities of daily life. This is what some call mild autism.

In general, people with ASD have challenges with social communication, usually resist changes in their routine, and can be hypersensitive to noise, smell, touch, and other sensory experiences.

Autistic people with low support needs may have advanced academic abilities, but struggle with social skills, sensory challenges, or organization. Children and adults can exhibit different signs.

Support needed for a person with level 1 autism might include:

Building self-control

Controlling emotions

Being flexible

Developing back-and-forth communications skills

Understanding non-verbal communication

Reducing anxiety

How much support autistic people with mild traits need depends on many factors and varies from person to person, even though they have the same level-1 diagnosis.

Also Known As

Mild Autism Traits in Children

Autistic children with low support needs can have many neurotypical behaviors. When traits do appear, they can be slight and easy to overlook, or considered simple differences in personality or temperament.

Doesn't make eye contact: Autistic kids may seem very shy and look away from people when speaking or being spoken to, either often or consistently.

Seems distant: They can sometimes seem to be "in their own world" and may not seem to hear people who are speaking to them.

Attached to routine: A specific way of doing things often brings feelings of security. Any change to this routine can cause them to react in an emotional way.

Limits in adapting to change: Age-appropriate schoolwork or tasks may not be problematic, but a child may have a hard time changing activities or trying new ways of doing something.

Difficulty seeing another's perspective: It may be hard for an autistic child to understand what other people are thinking or feeling.

Challenges adjusting to different social situations: Autistic children might become upset in new social situations and not understand social "rules" and expectations.

Trouble developing and maintaining relationships: Autistic children often struggle with imaginative play, making friends, or sharing interests.

Repeating the same actions, activities, movements, or words: Autistic children may line up objects or do other activities over and over again, even if there is no obvious reason for doing so.

Limited range of interests, but in-depth knowledge: An autistic child might only care about a few things, but they'll know everything there is to know about them.

Extremely sensitive or indifferent to sensations: An autistic person can be extremely sensitive (hyperreactive) to the feel of material on their skin, be unable to stand loud noises, or have strong reactions to other sensory experiences. Others may not notice changes in sensation (hyporeactive), such as extreme heat or cold.

Some of these traits may be more obvious than others. It's also important to consider that autism traits and their expression can be affected by the child's location (e.g., at home or school), as well as who is with them (e.g., friends and family or strangers).

Autism traits may become more obvious as a child gets older. For example, an autistic preteen might be unable to keep up socially with their peers. This isn't always the case, however.

Mild Autism Traits in Adults

Autistic people with low support needs may not receive a diagnosis until they become adults-or at all. Signs of autism in adults may be difficult to see because autistic people with mild traits often adopt coping skills to suppress these traits, making them less obvious.

Some autism traits in adults include:

Difficulty relating to others: You may have a hard time putting yourself in "other people's shoes."

Difficulty making and maintaining friendships: Autistic adults have trouble understanding and following social rules, and can sometimes be seen as "rude" or inconsiderate. This can make it difficult to establish and maintain friendships.

Challenges with back-and-forth communication: An autistic person can find it hard to hold a conversation and use or understand body language, eye contact, and facial expressions.

Trouble expressing yourself verbally: You may say things that seem blunt, or have trouble describing what you are thinking or feeling.

Strong need for planning and routine: Autistic adults like structure and may have a rigid routine. They may have a need to plan out the details of everything they do.

Disliking change: Change can make an autistic adult feel very uncomfortable or emotional.

Experiencing anxiety in social situations: You might have difficulty adjusting to a new social situation or to situations where there is a lot of sensory input, such as a crowded store.

Having intense interests in very specific subjects: Autistic adults can become "hyperfixated" on certain subjects or activities.

Can an Autistic Person Have a "Normal" Life?

Why Mild Autism Traits May Go Undiagnosed

Autistic people with low support needs are more likely to fly under the radar and not be diagnosed until they are older. There are several reasons for this, some of which include their sex, how they adopt masking strategies, the difficulty with diagnosis, and more.

Assigned females are more likely to have mild autism traits that go undiagnosed until they are older. Autistic girls are less likely to engage in repetitive behaviors and don't act out as much as autistic boys.

They're also more likely to be seen as shy and withdrawn. If caregivers and teachers consider these behaviors "expected" for girls, it can contribute to the delay in autism diagnosis.

Masking and Coping Skills

Masking is when someone suppresses or covers up autism traits in order to "fit in" better with those around them. Examples of this include imitating the way others speak or carry themselves, and practicing statements before saying them.

Autistic people with low support needs are often better able to mask their autism traits than those with intense traits and high support needs. They can be successful in their efforts, though this usually ends up causing distress.

Autistic people with low support needs also tend to adopt coping skills to help them in settings like school and work. For example, a child may fidget with something under their desk throughout the day to feed their need for stimulation. This may go unnoticed or not be paid much mind if it is.

Difficulty With Diagnosis

Autism with low support needs can be hard to diagnose in anyone. But since children typically have several grown-ups monitoring them (caregivers, teachers, coaches, healthcare practitioners, and so on), getting to the point where an evaluation is actually done may be harder for autistic adults.

Usually, a person will need to see a psychologist or psychiatrist who specializes in adult autism. This might not happen if someone is unaware they are exhibiting signs or they do not want to acknowledge them.

Misdiagnosis

Sometimes an autistic person with mild traits may get a diagnosis-just not an autism diagnosis.

Autistic adults with low support needs may have been previously misdiagnosed with:

Anxiety

Depression

Obsessive-compulsive disorder

Psychosis

Personality disorders

Other neurodevelopmental disorders

These mental health diagnoses in adults with undiagnosed autism may actually be a sign of autistic burnout.

What Is Autistic Burnout?

How Mild Autism Is Diagnosed

Pediatricians, school staff, and parents may notice mild autism traits in a child that prompt an evaluation. This is done by an ASD specialist such as a child psychologist, child psychiatrist, pediatric neurologist, or developmental pediatrician.

Adults who may have autism must be evaluated by a psychologist or psychiatrist, but this requires them to take the initiative to make that appointment.

Diagnosing Mild Autism Traits in Children

The specialist will go over your child's medical and developmental history. Your child's intelligence, behavior patterns, and social and communication skills can be tested.

Tests used to help diagnose autism can include:

If your child is in school, you can also inquire about having your child evaluated through the school district.

Diagnosing Mild Autism Traits in Adults

The process of getting an autism diagnosis as an adult can be difficult and may vary from provider to provider.

Your healthcare provider will likely assess you based on:

Their observations about your autism traits

Your own observations about your autism traits

Screening questionnaires such as the Ritvo Autism Asperger Diagnostic Scale-Revised (RAADS-R)

Support services for autistic adults can be lacking, and many people have strong emotions after being diagnosed.

Mild Autism and Treatment

The recommended treatment for autistic people with low support needs usually depends on age. Autistic children and teens need support that differs from what autistic adults need.

As with any level of ASD, the most helpful treatments for autistic people with low support needs often involve a variety of therapies. The type of support that's needed, as well as how much is needed, may change over time.

Treatments for Children

Autistic children often need a very structured routine. Their caregivers can work with a team of professionals to ensure their child has the support they need at school and at home.

An education plan that's tailored to an autistic child's needs is also necessary. They may also benefit from:

Possible treatments for autism with low support needs include:

Behavioral therapy: This type of therapy uses rewards to teach autistic children expected or preferred behaviors.

Play or developmental therapy: This therapy uses play-based activities to build an autistic child's emotional and communication skills.

Speech therapy: Speech therapy for autistic children with low support needs is usually focused on conversation skills and learning to understand body language.

Occupational therapy: Occupational therapy is often helpful for sensory challenges that many autistic children face.

Physical therapy: Many autistic children have low muscle tone and struggle with physical activities.

Specific condition treatment: Autistic kids also need to be treated for any other physical or mental health conditions they have. For example, seizures, gastrointestinal disorders, sleep disorders, anxiety, and obsessive-compulsive disorder commonly co-occur with autism.

Treatments for Adults

Structure and predictability are also important for autistic adults. Examples of what this might include are:

Accommodations at work, such as scheduled breaks, written (rather than verbal) instructions, and earplugs or headphones to reduce sensory overload.

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to develop coping skills, which in turn helps them manage relationships and deal with frustrations at work and in life.

Occupational therapy that focuses on problem-solving skills, building self-esteem, managing sensory challenges, and taking charge of home and finances.

Speech therapyto help build communication skills and the ability to interpret body language.

As with autistic children, autistic adults also need treatment and support for any other conditions they have-for example, going to therapy or taking medication to help them cope with anxiety.

Mild autism is diagnosed as level 1 autism spectrum disorder. It means a person does not have intense autism traits and needs a lower level of support than other autistic people often do.

Autistic people with low support needs still have a hard time communicating and interacting with others. They can also find it difficult to change their routine and can be sensitive to sounds, pain, tastes, or other sensations. But generally, they are able to carry out the tasks of daily living well.

There's no separate diagnosis for mild autism, but providers may develop a treatment plan to align with level 1 autism traits and support needs.

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Could You or Your Child Have Mild Autism?

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Autistic people with lower support needs are often overlooked. Learn these mild autism traits and how to get diagnosed.

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People with "severe autism" are often non-verbal and intellectually disabled, and may have very challenging behaviors.

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There is no such diagnosis as "severe autism." When the term is used, therefore, it's really just a way of describing a person's level of functioning and need. Severe autism is sometimes called low-functioning autism, classic autism, "Kanner's" autism (after the person who first described autism as a unique disorder), or profound autism. Simply put, it describes those autistic people with the most significant symptoms.

Challenges of Severe or "Level 3" Autism

Another way to describe severe autism is to talk about the level of support required for a person with the diagnosis to function safely. The current diagnostic manual (DSM-5) provides three levels of autism, with more support required at each level. People with severe autism would usually be diagnosed as having "Level 3" autism spectrum disorder, meaning they need a great deal of support.

It is not unusual for a person with severe autism to require 24/7 support and supervision.

Severe autism can be much more debilitating and challenging than other types of autism. That's because (1) people with severe autism have many of the same issues as anyone else on the spectrum, but to a much greater degree; and (2) people with severe autism often have major symptoms that are relatively rare in higher functioning autism. These two sets of issues can make it virtually impossible for a person with severe autism (or his family) to function well in typical settings ranging from school to the grocery store to the doctor's office.

More Severe Versions of Common Autistic Symptoms

To qualify for an autism spectrum diagnosis, a person must have symptoms significant enough to impair daily life. Every autistic person must have social, communication, and sensory challenges that make life more difficult; even so-called "high functioning" autism can be very challenging. But those challenges rise to a very different level for people with "severe" autism. For example:

1. Speech and language challenges. While everyone with an autism spectrum disorder has a difficult time with social skills and communication, people with severe autism are most likely to be entirely unable to use spoken language. They may also appear to take no notice of the people around them.

2. Sensory dysfunction. Many people on the autism spectrum have sensory dysfunction (they're too sensitive or not sensitive enough to light, sound, touch, taste, or smell). People with severe autism tend to be extremely sensitive, to the degree that going out into crowds, bright lights, or loud noises can be overwhelming.

3. Cognitive challenges. Many people with autism have high IQs. Some have IQs at or near 75, the cutoff for what used to be called mental retardation. Generally speaking, however, people with severe autism have low to very low IQs, even when tested using non-verbal testing tools. It's important to know, however, that appearances can be deceiving: Some people with severe autism have learned to communicate using sign, spelling boards, or other tools. Some of those people are quite articulate, and they make it clear that at least some individuals with severe autism are more capable than they appear to be.

1. Repetitive behaviors. Most people on the autism spectrum have repetitive behaviors and self-stimulatory behaviors. Higher functioning individuals may flap their hands, rock, or flick their fingers. Often, they can control these behaviors for a period of time when necessary. People with severe autism are likely to have many such behaviors, and those behaviors can be extreme and uncontrollable (violent rocking, door slamming, moaning, etc.).

2. Physical symptoms. People with severe autism may have physical symptoms that sometimes appear with less profound autism. These may include sleeplessness, epilepsy, and, according to some sources, gastrointestinal issues. Because of their difficulties with communication, such issues can go undetected or undiagnosed. The result of undiagnosed physical illness can be behavioral issues that are actually caused by physical pain.

Unusual Challenges That Affect People with Severe Autism

According to some researchers, the extreme behaviors seen in severe autism are very often the result of either frustration, sensory overload, or physical pain. Because people with severe autism have such a hard time communicating their needs verbally, they may find expression in behaviors that can be frightening to their caregivers and others. If the behaviors can't be addressed or managed, they can actually be dangerous; in many cases, it becomes impossible for parents or siblings to live safely with a severely autistic teen or adult.

1. Self-injury. While self-injury can occur among people with milder forms of autism, behaviors such as head-banging and pica (eating non-food items) are far more common among people with severe autism.

2. Aggressive and anti-social behaviors. Aggression is relatively rare in autism, but it is certainly not unheard of, particularly among people with more severe autism (or among people with autism and other issues such as severe anxiety). People with severe autism may act out by hitting, biting, or kicking. They may also have behaviors, such as fecal smearing, door banging, etc., which require a quick and effective response.

3. Wandering and eloping. "Eloping" (running away with no obvious cause and no particular destination) is also common among people with severe autism. Unlike higher functioning individuals, people with severe autism don't have the tools to communicate with first responders. This can, of course, increase the likelihood that the individual will wind up in a dangerous situation. In some cases, special locks, alarms, and identification tools are necessary to ensure the safety of a person with severe autism.

Treatments for Severe Autism

There are no treatments that cure severe autism as a disorder. There are, however, a wide range of medical and non-medical options for addressing individual symptoms of severe autism. Some of these are really nothing more than good common sense.

Check for physical issues and food intolerance. Few people with severe autism have the ability to describe physical symptom or problems. Thus, it's a good idea to start by checking whether a child with severe autism has physical symptoms that may be exacerbating problem behaviors. It's not uncommon, for example, to discover that a child's apparently aggressive behavior is actually a response to severe gastrointestinal pain-pain which can be treated through dietary changes. Once the pain is gone, the person finds it much easier to relax, engage, learn, and behave appropriately.

Teach communication skills. Many children with severe autism are non-verbal. Even if they learn to use spoken language, some have a hard time asking or answering questions and may repeat sounds without assigning meaning to them. On the other hand, many of those same individuals who cannot speak are able to communicate through the use of sign language, picture cards, digital talking boards, and keyboards. Communication, of course, is the key to any kind of engagement and learning.

Provide a highly structured, low-stress environment. For some people with severe autism, a very regular routine along with low lights, few loud noises, predictable foods, and supports for daily activities can be extremely helpful.

Non-medical therapies. Children with severe autism often respond well to applied behavior analysis (ABA), a form of behavioral therapy which is often provided at no charge by school and early intervention programs. Sensory integration therapy can be helpful, as severe autism often comes with serious sensory challenges. Other useful therapies include speech, occupational therapy, physical therapy and, sometimes, play therapy.

Medications. Treatments for severe autism usually include medications for anxiety and related issues. Anti-psychotic drugs can also be effective, as can anti-depressants. It's important to carefully monitor your child's responses to drugs, as-in some cases-side effects or interactions can cause as many problems as they solve.

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Article Sources

Doyle, Carolyn, et al. Pharmacologic treatments for the behavioral symptoms associated with autism spectrum disorders across the lifespan. Dialogues Clin Neurosci. 2012 Sep; 14(3): 263-279.

Ghaeli, Padideh et al. "Effects of Risperidone on Core Symptoms of Autistic Disorder Based on Childhood Autism Rating Scale: An Open Label Study." Indian Journal of Psychological Medicine 36.1 (2014): 66-70. PMC. Web. 29 Dec. 2016.

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There is no such diagnosis as "severe autism." When the term is used, therefore, it's really just a way of describing a person's level of functioning and need. Severe autism is sometimes called low-functioning autism, classic autism, "Kanner's" autism (after the person who first described autism as a unique disorder), or profound autism.

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Just a Little Bit of Autism

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Autism is a spectrum disorder, meaning a person can be a little autistic or very autistic, and individuals can have varying symptoms. The term broad autism phenotype describes an even wider range of individuals who exhibit problems with personality, language, and social-behavioral characteristics at a level that is considered to be higher than average but lower than is diagnosable with autism. Individuals who meet the criteria of the broad autism phenotype are identified through a test called the "Social Responsiveness Scale."

It is theorized that parents who are a part of the broad autism phenotype are more likely than other parents to have multiple children with autism. Some studies seem to support this theory.

Traits That May Suggest You Have a "Touch" of Autism

To be diagnosable, symptoms of autism must actually interfere with an individual's ability to take part in or complete activities of daily life. The symptoms must also have been in existence from an early age. So, for example:

Social communication difficulties are always present in autism. Many people have social communication difficulties that make it tough to find friends, build romantic relationships, or function well at parties. People with autism aren't merely socially awkward, though: they may find it literally impossible to pick up on social cues, ask and answer questions appropriately, or even use spoken language at all.

Over- or under-responsiveness to sensory input is now a criterion for diagnosing autism. Many people have sensory challenges, and a surprisingly large number are actually diagnosable with sensory processing disorder. Most people with autism, however, don't simply over-react to noise or light. Rather, they may find it impossible to attend movies, ride the subway, or even go to the mall because of their intense response to light and sound. Alternatively, they may only be able to calm themselves when they are wrapped tightly in a blanket or otherwise being "squeezed," jumping, etc.

A need for repetition and a preference for routine are included in the criteria for autism. Many people like doing, seeing, eating, or watching the same things over and over again, and many prefer predictable routines. People with autism, however, may open and close a door over and over again, listen to the same song ten times in a row, or have no interests outside of a particular television show or movie. They also can become extremely anxious and overwhelmed when required to change plans or adapt to a new situation.

People who fit into the Broad Autism Phenotype have all of these traits at a mild level. In essence, they are more likely than their typical peers to have sensory and social challenges, prefer repetition and routine, and have "passions" that keep them focused on just one intense area of interest.

How the Broad Autism Phenotype Is Diagnosed

Several different people have developed questionnaires to evaluate individuals for "BAP." People using the questionnaire are asked to rank themselves on a scale of 1-5 on such statements as:

I like being around other people

I find it hard to get my words out smoothly

I am comfortable with unexpected changes in plans

I would rather talk to people to get information than to socialize

Answers to these questions are compared to a norm and, at least in theory, provide a quick answer to the question "am I just a touch autistic?"

Unfortunately, the results of these evaluative questionnaires vary radically. According to the Kennedy Krieger Institute, in one study of parents with autistic children:

"The researchers used three different assessment tools. They found that a small percentage of the parents had the BAP, but how many parents depended on the tool used. The percentage of parents with the BAP ranged from almost none to 12 percent, depending on the test.

"What explains these differences between assessment tools? It may be that each one measures a different concept of the BAP. Another explanation may be found in the way each assessment was conducted. One assessment was completed by the parent herself, another by her partner, and the third by a researcher."

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Article Sources

Losh M, Childress D, Lam K, Piven J. Defining Key Features of the Broad Autism Phenotype: A Comparison Across Parents of Multiple- and Single-Incidence Autism Families. Am J Med Genet B Neuropsychiatr Genet. 2008 Jun 5;147B(4):424-33.

Sarris, Marina. What Does It Mean to Have Just a Hint of Autism? Interactive Autism Network at Kennedy Krieger Institute. Web. December 11, 2014.

Sasson, N. J., Lam, K. S. L., Childress, D., Parlier, M., Daniels, J. L. and Piven, J. The Broad Autism Phenotype Questionnaire: Prevalence and Diagnostic Classification. Autism Res, 2013. 6: 134-143. doi:10.1002/aur.1272.

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Autism is a spectrum disorder, meaning a person can be a little autistic or very autistic, and individuals can have varying symptoms. The term broad autism phenotype describes an even wider range of individuals who exhibit problems with personality, language, and social-behavioral characteristics at a level that is considered to be higher than average but lower than is diagnosable with autism.

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Explaining Autism

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Share the amazing by celebrating and supporting the uniqueness of every child, including those on the autism spectrum.

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How Autism Feels, From the Inside | Op-Docs

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Top 10 Autism Websites Recommended by Parents

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Top 10 Autism Websites Recommended by Parents

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By Maureen Higgins, Eden II Marketing Intern

Searching for autism information on the web can be overwhelming. The word "autism" alone results in over 64 million hits on Google. So, where do you turn to for the most relevant information and resources when there are so many different options? We polled parents of Eden II participants, asking them this question, and these were the top 10 results:

1. www.autismspeaks.org -One of the leading autism science and advocacy organizations. Autism Speaks provides a comprehensive resource guide for all states. The site also boasts an impressive list of apps that parents may find useful, including games that focus on communication and social skills.

2. www.autism-society.org -Another great site that includes helpful resources for those with autism, family members, as well as professionals. Autism Society also gives updates on the latest autism news and press releases.

3. www.disabilityscoop.com - Sign up for Disability Scoop's e-mail news to receive the most current updates on developmental disabilities. Disability Scoop's experts have been cited by multiple online news sites, including USA Today and People.com.

4. www.autismnj.org -Run by a network of professionals and parents, Autism New Jersey strives to provide New Jersey residents affected by autism with the most up to date information, including info on Health Care and insurance mandates in New Jersey.

5. www.autism.com - The Autism Research Institute focuses on researching the causes of autism, as well as developing safe and effective treatments for those currently affected by the disorder.

6. www.autismweb.com - Managed by parents, AutismWeb includes great insights on different autism teaching methods. The site also provides a forum where parents can go to share their stories, give updates on their children's progress, and share recipes that may be useful for picky eaters.

7. www.ahany.org - The Asperger Syndrome and High Functioning Autism Association website offers some great resources for those with higher functioning autism. Ahany also provides a great list of summer programs and day camps in New York, as well as useful questions to ask when choosing a camp or summer program for your special needs child.

8. www.autismhwy.com -Started by a woman whose son was diagnosed with autism, Autism Highway is both informative and fun. Easy to navigate, Autism Highway provides an extensive list of Autism related events and specialists. In addition, Autism Highway includes many fun games that children are sure to enjoy!

9. www.autismbeacon.com - Also started by the parent of a child with autism, Autism Beacon strives to supply the best resources for autism treatments. Autism Beacon presents a lengthy range of articles on autism, including sensitive topics such as bullying and sexuality.

10. www.autism.healingthresholds.com - Healing Thresholds includes information on many different therapy treatments for children with autism. The site focuses on the top 12 used by parents, but also includes useful information on nearly 100 additional therapies.

11. Potty Training a Child with Autism using ABA - Potty training an Autistic child can be daunting for parents and caregivers because of the unique challenges the child faces. For this reason, traditional approaches to toilet training may not always be effective. This is where applied behavioral analysis (ABA) comes into your potty training program.

12. ASAT - The Association for Science in Autism Treatment (ASAT) provides a well-respected, comprehensive website that tackles the array of considerations surrounding autism treatment. ASAT is the go-to source for research summaries of the full array of autism treatments for families and professionals.

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Top Autism Websites Recommended by Parents - Eden II Programs

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By Maureen Higgins, Eden II Marketing Intern Searching for autism information on the web can be overwhelming. The word "autism" alone results in over 64 million hits on Google. So, where do you turn to for the most relevant information and resources when there are so many different options?

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Autism is a pervasive neuro-developmental condition which effects a person's ability to communicate and interact with others. People with autism may have a difficult time understanding 'typical' social cues and social behaviors, and they may face challenges engaging with those around them - either by using words or non-verbal behaviors. Affecting 1 in every 68 people in the United States, Autism is one of the fastest growing neurological conditions in the world. Although, due to the widespread emphasis on early detection and intervention, the condition is commonly associated with young children. While many young individuals with Autism (who have access services) learn to develop skills and strategies to address various challenges they face living in a predominantly neurotypical society, children with autism become adults with autism and do not simply "grow out" of the condition. Autism is a spectrum condition and manifests differently and to varying degrees in every individual.

Although these are some of the most common signs and symptoms, please note that every individual on the autism spectrum is unique and manifests a different set of behaviors. As you may have noticed we frequently use the terms "may" "might" "frequently" "usually" quite a bit, in an effort to emphasize the individuality of the condition. As well, while many symptoms are common in both adults and children, others present themselves differently throughout the lifespan.

Delay and/or difficulty in learning language or lack of functional communication.
Children on the autism spectrum disorder typically have some degree of impairment in communication. For example they may not respond to their name, initiate interaction with others, or demonstrate age-appropriate language development.

Individuals with autism may often engage in repetitive body movements.
Hand-flapping, tapping, spinning/rocking their body, or looking at things out of the corner of their eye.

Marked impairments in interpreting and reciprocating non-verbal gestures.
May demonstrate difficulties in identifying and interpreting various facial expressions and body-language such as foot tapping, stares, discomfort, raised eyebrows, etc.

May focus on restricted interests.
This can include preoccupation with certain topics or having things a certain way-like wanting to learn everything about vacuum cleaners or lining things up in a certain order.

Lack of interest or deficits in developing and maintaining peer appropriate relationships and delayed development of social skills.

As stated, while some individuals on the spectrum prefer solitude, many desire to make friends, interact socially but may lack the functional ability to do so (aka hidden curriculum).

Many people on the spectrum may appear shy, standoffish, or unaware of those around them. Do not take this as a

Autism looks different for every person and affects everyone differently-that's why it's called a "spectrum". Autism may also be recognized differently in different cultures. While autism is a condition that affects all populations and countries at the same rate, sometimes social behaviors vary from culture to culture. For example, eye contact expectations are different from country to country. Lack of eye contact can be a common sign of autism in the United States, whereas other cultures might not notice it as much. Access to diagnostic tools and awareness of autism symptoms (like eye contact) can affect rates of autism in other countries, and service provision.

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is the application of the laws and scientific principles of behaviorism to produce positive, meaningful change. ABA therapy is an effective therapy for helping individuals with autism lead meaningful lives, and become happy, engaged members in their communities.
Hi, and thank you for visiting this page! I'm Archibald C. Brechin (Archie) an autistic-self advocate and intern at the Global Autism Project. I wrote this description not only to describe and promote awareness of the autism spectrum, but also to inspire hope in individuals, parents, family members, and educators who are new to the diagnosis and don't know what to expect. At age three I was formally diagnosed with autism, and that moment would forever, overtly shape the course of my life. Due to the overwhelming love and support from my dedicated community of family members, educators, friends, and service providers I was able to thrive not in spite of my condition, but because of it! My interests in self-advocacy, languages, international social work, and cross-cultural engagement lead me to this fabulous change-making organization, the Global Autism Project. If you have any questions, don't hesitate to contact me at archie.brechin@globalautismproject.org .

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Autism is a pervasive neuro-developmental condition which effects a person's ability to communicate and interact with others. People with autism may have a difficult time understanding 'typical' social cues and social behaviors, and they may face challenges engaging with those around them - either by using words or non-verbal behaviors.

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18 Interesting Games And Activities For An Autistic Child

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18 Interesting Games And Activities For An Autistic Child

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Every child loves to be involved in some activities, and kids with autism are no exception! If your child has been diagnosed with autism, there are various activities that you can use as a tool to help mix in a social circle.

What Is Autism Spectrum Disorder?

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurobiological health condition that affects normal brain development. It affects a person's communication skills and also leads to several behavioral and social challenges.

The 'spectrum' in ASD means the ASD symptoms and the severity of these symptoms may differ for each person. Some people with ASD may have exceptional learning and problem-solving abilities while others may struggle with simple learning tasks. ( 1)

You have to involve autistic children in activities to bridge the gap between them and their surrounding environment. Below are a few indoor and outdoor games and activities you can teach your autistic toddlers and younger kids.

Fun Indoor Activities For Autistic Children:

These autism games and activities can improve social skills as they help strengthen the bond between your child and people around her. You can create fun-filled and engaging activities with a little effort from your side:

1. Create A Shredded Flower Bouquet:

This is a creative activity that involves ripping and shredding of paper to create a beautiful composition to use as a decorative element. Autistic kids who require special needs will love the sensory touch of handling paper and playing with shapes and colors.

Watercolor paper - 11" * 17"

Flesh colored paper

Bright colored construction papers

Green colored construction papers - various shades

Glue stick

Scissors

Pencil

1. Take a flesh colored paper and let your little one trace his or her hand and arm. Cut out the trace.

2. Keep a watercolor paper in a portrait style.

3. Now lay the paper hand across the bottom of the watercolor paper and see to it that the fingers touch the end of the paper.

4. Cut the arm part and glue it on the watercolor paper.

5. Now help your child cut and tear long thin stems of green papers, then leaf shapes including small and big, flat and round, and thin and long.

6. Place the stems in between the fingers, a few overlapping the thumb and most going beneath the fingers.

7. Apply glue and then paste the stems at the bottom. Do not stick at the top.

8. Now try to make the fingers hold the flowers by folding the fingers under and glue them. Or you can even snip the fingers off to show an effect of bent fingers.

9. Paste the leaves on and around the stems.

10. Now cut or rip the colored paper to various petal shapes.

11. Paste the petals. Try to overlap the stems and petals as much as possible so that the activity looks beautiful.

2. Underwater I Spy Alphabet Bottle:

Sparkling water is one such activities for children with autism social skills to attract. Here is a great alphabet bottle activity that helps to keep your little one focused and engaged. Your kids can recognize letters in a creative manner through the shiny floating sequins.

3. Paint With Ice:

Kids love swirling the paint on paper to create beautiful patterns. It helps them to improve their color observation and recognition skills. This is an interesting learning activity for toddlers and preschoolers with autism.

Liquid egg tempera paint
Craft sticks
Ice cube tray
Plastic wrap
Paper

1. Ask your child to pour paint into the ice tray and let herself analyze how many colors of cubes she wants.

2. Have her keep a craft stick into the middle of each cube. If the sticks cannot stay standing, cover the tray with a plastic wrap and then poke them through the wrap.

3. Now let her keep the tray in the freezer until the color cubes form.

4. Once the water freezes, ask your little one to choose one color cube.

5. Holding the craft stick, she can swirl the paint cube on the paper. It leaves a beautiful stream of paint on the paper.

6. Ask her to take different cubes and repeat the same.

7. You can discuss things like how the paint transformed when kept in the freezer, what is happening when it is on the paper, how does it melt and more.

4. Practice Paint Chip Storytelling:

Narrating a story is just like painting a picture where words are used instead of paint. Here, your little tot takes the help of paint chips and words to narrate a story. This helps to improve her narrative and imaginative abilities.

Color sample cards that have interesting names

Pen and paper

Glue

Dictionary

While your little one reads aloud the story, you can understand her creative skills, suggest new words, point out the language and discuss it so as to improve her creative skills.

5. Making Shapes:

These are beautiful matching learning activities for children with autism to introduce to the concept of puzzles. A craft stick contains only a half shape, and you need to find the other half and place them side by side to complete the shape.

20 craft sticks

Markers of different colors

1. Place two craft sticks next to each other. Ask your child to draw a shape such that when you split those two sticks, the shape is equally present on the two.

2. Let your little one create as many stick pairs as possible.

3. Now ask her to mix all the sticks.

4. Your child can find the sticks and join them to create the correct shapes.

Let your kid take up the shapes of a square, circle and triangle and whatever is easy. Help your little one understand the concept of symmetry so that she draws symmetric shapes.

6. Sculpt Clay Snowflakes:

You can have your child make sparkling snowflakes and thus experience the winter from your home. Sculpting clay is an amazing way to boost your little one's motor skills and improve the sensory experience of pulling, kneading and squishing.

Air-dry white clay

Glitter in opal and silver shades

Clay molding tools like craft sticks, pencil erasers and a spoon

Egg tempera paint

Thin paint brush

1. Help your kid prepare the clay to create sculptures. Let them start pulling and kneading it. Once it turns soft, add glitter and tell her to knead again.

2. Once that is mixed properly, help her mold the clay into snowflakes. Encourage her to design a variety of shapes by using modeling tools as well.

3. Let her add color by using tempera paint. Leave it for a while to dry.

Teach your kid about the symmetry of hexagon by this activity.

7. Make Number Rubbings:

Children love crayons, and you can put this art by introducing them to rubbings. It helps to improve eye-hand coordination and works the small muscles of hands.

Paper

Black color marker

Blank paper - 10 pieces with one number on each

Objects with different textures - 10, can be leaves, coins, sandpaper, etc.

Pencil

Safety scissors

Lined paper

Crayons

1. Draw one to ten umbers on blank papers, one number on each sheet. Draw blocked, big and outlined numbers for easy coloring.

2. Help your child make a design by placing a texture below the paper and rubbing a crayon on it.

3. Sit with your child and explain her to do textures corresponding with the number page. For instance, if it is page 2, ask her to draw two different textures and make a design of it.

It is a great fun activity for kids with autism that teaches math. It helps kids connect numbers with objects to represent the number.

8. Finding Toys:

Here is another activity that helps improve your child's sensory skills by touching and feeling various things.

1. Take a large plastic tub and fill with beans or beads.

2. Hide as many toys as you can inside the box.

3. Now ask your little one to put her hand into the box and take out the toy by feeling each one.

9. Finger Painting:

It is a bit messy but helps your child learn much about colors. It makes your little one feel different textures by touch and will help lower sensory issues.

Place tiny blobs of paint of various colors on paper. Then ask your kid to mix those paints using her fingers.

Create words, numbers, shapes and various other patterns in the paint and keep a white paper on the top to create a stamp of finger painting.

10. Song Time:

If your child with autism cannot speak, she would have at least gifted with humming, or playing instruments like keyboards, piano or drums. Try singing a song and ask her hum or create a new tone with any instrument. It will improve her sensory simulation.

[ Read: Activities For Teenagers With Autism ]

No matter what activities for kids with autism you have in mind, the primary challenge lies in choosing the right activity and engaging them in it. Encourage his or her performance in every activity as these autism activities would help your kid connect and communicate with others in a better way!

Fun Games For Autistic Child:

Children with autism go through various difficulties every day. They have difficulty in understanding human relationships and intimacy. You can take them out and soak them in the sun and notice a significant change in their behavior. Try the below outdoor and indoor games for autistic kids of all ages.

Outdoor Games for Autistic Children:

1. Obstacle Course:

Outdoors provide significant obstacle courses. You can make your little one run around a bush, jump over a stick, down the slide and hug a tree. You do not require any equipment, and it will greatly enhance your kid's obstacle course options. Be as creative as you can.

2. Hide N' Seek:

This game can never turn old. People love playing it indoors, but outdoor playing is great. Children giggle and laugh when they see someone hiding behind a tree. You can integrate counting, visual perception and turn-taking into the game.

3. Head To The Playground:

Who will not love a playground? It is a perfect area for children to improve their motor skills, balance, confidence, social skills and vestibular orientation. There is no need for panic or hover for their safety. Just stay close in reach and encourage them to go around different slides and swings.

4. Water Therapy:

Wait for the rains to arrive and then you can send them outside. You should not bother whether they are with raincoats or not. Just let them get soaked or handover an umbrella. Give them a broom to slosh away the water and buckets to collect it. The rains will offer a sensory integration episode.

5. Rolling Along:

Bicycles, skateboards, and scooters encourage balance, linear acceleration and motor planning, which are all essential for sensory processing. Make sure they wear pads and helmets all the time. Teach them to pedal the bike by lowering their seat for their feet to touch the ground. Once they learn walking and pushing, you can ask them to raise the seat.

Do not leave your kids unattended.

Give them proper shoes

Apply sunscreen all over their exposed skin

Indoor Games For Autistic Children:

1. Colored Beans:

Lima beans or pinto beans

Tupperware or Glad ware container/bag

Food color

Paper towel

2. Rainbow Ice Excavation:

A few bits and pieces in different colors or rainbow colors

Large container or vase

Water

3. Balloon Paint Stamping:

As a parent, it can become a strenuous part of everyday life. Keeping the communication open with your partner, loving your child unconditionally and being proud of him or her, are some ways that will help both you and your child make the best of the situation.

We would like to know if you know of more activities for young children with autism, please do share them with us.

Recommended Articles:

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18 Interesting Games and Activities For An Autistic Child

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Every child loves to be involved in some activities, and kids with autism are no exception! If your child has been diagnosed with autism, there are various activities that you can use as a tool to help mix in a social circle. Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurobiological health condition that affects normal brain development.

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Autism — what we know (and what we don't know yet)

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Autism — what we know (and what we don't know yet)

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Autism — what we know (and what we don't know yet) | Wendy Chung

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What Symptoms Do All Autistic People Have in Common?

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What Symptoms Do All Autistic People Have in Common?

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The autism spectrum includes an incredibly wide range of people, with an amazingly broad range of abilities and challenges. If you ask for general information about autism, you're likely to be told: "when you know one person with autism, you know one person with autism." This diversity means that it can be surprisingly difficult to craft a meaningful 30-second description of the disorder. That, however, does not mean that people with autism have nothing in common.

The Breadth of the Autism Spectrum

Symptoms of people with autism range from relatively mild to very severe. In addition, not all people share all of the same symptoms. There is no single autistic personality and no single treatment that is effective for all people with autism. The diagnostic criteria for autism include "qualifiers" including:

With or without accompanying intellectual impairment

With or without accompanying language impairment

Associated with a known medical or genetic condition or environmental factor

In addition to these qualifiers, there are also symptoms that are not listed in the diagnostic criteria but which are more common among autistic people than among the general population. For example, many (but not all) people with autism have sleep disorders, gastrointestinal issues, mood disorders, and/or seizure disorders.

Because there are so many differences among autistic people, it can be very tough to describe a "typical" person with autism. Here are just a few of the more obvious differences among people on the spectrum:

Some people on the spectrum have no spoken language, but others talk a mile a minute.

Some are very engaged (often too engaged) with other people, while others would be happy to spend most of their lives in complete solitude.

Some have no problem with crowds or noise while others are upset by the buzz of a fluorescent light bulb.

Some autistic people are capable of making complex plans and solving multi-faceted problems while others need help thinking through basic tasks of daily life.

Some autistic people have aggressive and/or self-aggressive behaviors, while others are gentle and slow to anger.

Symptoms All Autistic People Share

significant difficulties in the areas of social communication

repetitive behaviors

an over-focus on specific areas of interest

unusual responses to sensory input (sound, light, taste, etc.)

These differences must have been present before age three (though they may not have been obvious at the time), and they are significant enough that they impair the individual's ability to take part in ordinary activities of life. It is very possible to have relatively mild symptoms in one area and severe symptoms in another.

Social Communication Difficulties Across the Spectrum

Social communication is a very broad concept. It incorporates not only the ability to talk, but also the ability to converse, ask and answer questions, send and receive non-verbal body language, intuit hidden meanings buried between the lines, and much more.

Some people with autism have very severe deficits in this area (they can't speak at all, or use spoken language in very limited ways). Others may be able to answer complex academic questions or speak at length about an area of interest, but have no idea how to converse with someone who doesn't share their interests. In either case, however, social communication deficits have a significant impact on daily life.

Repetition and Perseveration Across the Spectrum

People with autism like to do the same thing over and over again, in the same way. For some people, that may mean following the same routines, watching the same movies, or talking about the same subject. For others, it may mean flushing the toilet or making the same sound over and over again. In either case, however, repetition and perseveration have a significant negative impact on daily life.

Sensory Challenges Across the Spectrum

People with autism react differently from most people to sensory input. Some people have extreme reactions to certain sounds, smells, etc., and are unable to be in a public space. Others have milder responses. Some prefer quiet and dim lights and avoid touch while others love loud music and crave deep pressure. Either way, for most autistic people, sensory challenges get in the way of enjoying ordinary life experiences.

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All People with Autism Share These Symptoms

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The autism spectrum includes an incredibly wide range of people, with an amazingly broad range of abilities and challenges. If you ask for general information about autism, you're likely to be told: "when you know one person with autism, you know one person with autism."