Autism Spectrum

 

According to the most recent findings from the Centers for Disease Control, one in 88 children in the US has an ASD (autism spectrum disorder). Although researchers aren’t sure why, this is a 78% increase since 2002, and the rate continues to rise.

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Autism does not affect all children to the same degree, so scientists often utilize the term autism spectrum when describing how an individual is affected by the disease. Children on the lowest end of the spectrum, the most severely affected, may be non-verbal, intellectually-disabled, and prone to self-injury. On the opposite end of the spectrum are children who are highly intelligent, some of whom possess unique talents and abilities. Many of these children are further diagnosed with the ASD subtypes of Asperger Syndrome or Pervasive Developmental Disorder, Not Otherwise Specified (PDD, NOS). These children often exhibit difficulty with communication and social interactions, along with some type of repetition in interests and behaviors. 

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Knowing where a child falls on the autism spectrum is very useful for determining the appropriate therapies and educational environment. Christi/STEPSS Academy accepts children at all levels of the spectrum, and we are committed to helping each child reach his or her full potential.

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