Autism Awareness

Autism has been increasing in numbers during the past 40 years. Over the past ten years, we’ve all had an opportunity to learn more about autism. Ten years ago, autism’s estimated prevalence was 1 in 166. Today it’s 1 in 68 – an increase of more than 100% in one decade, according to Autism Speaks. Although Autism is increasing in numbers, some people are still unfamiliar with what this disorder means or how it may affect their children if they were to become diagnosed. Autism is a childhood brain disorder that can likely be diagnosed by age 2 and affects the social abilities, communication, and motor skills of children with the disease. The fact that Autism is a disorder means that it can have a variety of effects on different people. According to Autism Society, each child that is diagnosed may display different symptoms, but common symptoms may include:

Lack of or delay in spoken language
Repetitive use of language and/or motor mannerisms (e.g., hand-flapping, twirling objects)
Little or no eye contact
Lack of interest in peer relationships
Lack of spontaneous or make-believe play
Persistent fixation on parts of objects

Autism costs a family about $60,000 a year on average. We ask that you show your support by donating money to the cause, educating your family and friends, asking your political representatives to support autism legislation, or volunteering your time to children suffering with the disease. Any of these things can make a real difference in the lives of children with autism. There is currently no medical detection or cure for autism, but creating awareness and educating others is always an important first step.

As a parent, it’s important for you to be aware of what you should look for in the early signs of autism. The following bullets may indicate that your child is at risk, but it’s important to ask your pediatrician or doctor for an evaluation. Each child is different, your child may experience some of these signs, none of these signs, or all of these signs; but some things you may want to look out for may be:

No joyful expressions by six months
No sharing of sounds or facial expressions by nine months
No babbling by 12 months
No hand gestures by 12 months
No words by 16 months
Many children develop normally up to age 24 months and then lose some or all of the above skills

Learn more about these signs on Autism Speaks. Again, your child may not experience any of these symptoms, but if your child seems to be developing different than other children, you may want to consult your doctor.If your child is diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder, you’re not alone. There are many resources available to you including Autism Speaks and the Autism Society.

Autism Speaks has resources for families who have recently received a diagnosis. These resources include Autism Speaks 100 Day Kit and the Asperger Syndrome and High Functioning Autism Tool Kit. In addition, their Video Glossary provides information about a wide range of treatments and behavioral interventions that may be suitable for your child. Within the glossary, you can also download descriptions of these treatments and interventions.

The core of the Autism Society’s mission is to provide information, resources and support to families affected by autism. The Autism Society has a national call center that provides one-to-one response to thousands of individuals each year. They also offer online courses about autism in general and on environmental health, and link to additional online learning opportunities provided by other autism organizations.

The Ward’s Apparel family can empathize with the many struggles these families face, as their grandson Jeff has autism. When Jeff was diagnosed in 1993 autism’s prevalence was 1 in 10,000 so their family has seen the growing impact of autism and the importance of education for families.

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