A new autism diagnosis (ASD) is a lifelong condition that affects how people communicate, think, behave, and relate to others.
It is also called autistic disorder, pervasive developmental disorder, or Pervasive Developmental Disorder.
Understand What It Means To Have An Autism Diagnosis
An ASD diagnosis does not mean that your child will never learn or develop normally.
In fact, children with ASD often show signs of normal development early in life.
However, there are some differences between typical development and ASD.
These differences can affect communication, social interaction, and behavior.
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) defines ASD as a developmental disorder characterized by three core symptoms:
impaired social interactions, repetitive behaviors, and restricted interests.
Learn About The Different Types of Autism
There are three main categories of (ASD): autistic disorder, Asperger syndrome, and pervasive developmental disorders not otherwise specified (PDD-NOS).
Each category has its own characteristics and symptoms.
Find Out How To Help Your Child Learn New Skills
If your child has ASD, there are many things you can do to help them develop social skills, improve communication, and learn new skills.
You can also find support groups for parents of children with ASD.
New Autism Diagnosis Handbook
Know When To Seek Professional Help/Autism Resources
It’s normal to feel overwhelmed learning that your child has ASD.
However, seeking out professional help early will give you more options for treatment and help your child reach his full potential.
If you’re wondering if your child has (ASD), there are many signs that could indicate he does.
Some of these include:
difficulty communicating, repetitive behaviors, lack of social skills, and trouble making friends.
If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to talk to your doctor right away. He’ll be able to determine whether your child needs further testing and/or therapy.
Be Prepared For School Changes
School systems often require parents to fill out paperwork before starting school.
This includes forms that ask questions about your child’s medical history, allergies, immunizations, and any other concerns.
If your child has special needs, you should also discuss them with the school system.
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that children be screened for (ASD) at age 2 years old.
If your child shows signs of ASD, he or she should receive early intervention services. These services include speech therapy, occupational therapy, behavioral therapy, and social skills training.
Printable Autism Checklist For Parents
