Autism refers to a broad spectrum of conditions, like communication trouble and repetitive behavior, which often require extensive learning assistance during childhood. 

You may see this under another name, Autistic Spectrum Disorder, a term that encompasses an array of symptoms affecting speech, behavior, and nonverbal communication. It's sometimes difficult to comprehend, but we’d like to shine some light on it and show you how the Center for Natural Integrated Learning helps children cope with autism.

How Common is Autism?

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) estimates that roughly one in 44 children exhibit signs of autism in the United States.

It manifests in many subtypes and symptoms, making it a problem that’s vulnerable to misdiagnosis or confusion with other conditions. Alas, many children who suffer from autism also struggle with gastrointestinal (GI) disorders, insomnia, seizures, anxiety, depression, and difficulty paying attention in school.

The signs of autism may become most obvious when the child reaches two or three years old. However, parents may detect problems even during early infancy when a child doesn’t respond to stimuli like other babies. An early diagnosis, which may happen as soon as 18 months old, can make a significant impact on the child’s quality of life.

Symptoms of Autism & Autism Spectrum Disorder

Let’s look closer at some of the many symptoms that correspond with an autism diagnosis.

• The child has trouble responding to his/her name.
• They appear to lack facial expression or struggle to maintain eye contact.
• They exhibit delayed speech.
• Simple questions or instructions pose significant difficulty.
• The child engages in repetitive movements like spinning or arm flapping.
• They’re sensitive to light, sound, or touch.
• You may also notice self-harming actions like head banging or biting.
• They have pickier dietary preferences (even for children) or refuse to eat foods of a certain shape or texture.
• Autistic children also spend lots of time stacking or organizing their toys.

Our Caring Environment for Children with Autism

Of course, some of these symptoms can present a challenge for a child’s social and educational growth. Researchers agree that the best way to prevent problems later in a child’s life is to identify the condition and intervene early. The best way to do that is to a) obtain a proper diagnosis, and b) follow physician guidance, and c) intervene with personalized education.

That last part is where education professionals, like Laurel Ann Colgate, can help. While Autism may not be a condition a person can outgrow, there are ways to train children to cope with symptoms, and live prosperous adult lives.

So, if you have a child diagnosed with autism, and would like educational support, please visit the Center for Natural Integrated Learning, Inc. We help children cope with and thrive amid learning disabilities like autism and dyslexia. Contact us anytime to learn more at 941-264-3727.