Autism Spectrum Disorder
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) refers to a group of complex disorders that affect the development of the brain. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1 in every 68 American children are diagnosed with ASD along with tens of millions worldwide (1). ASD, which is regarded as “the fastest-growing serious developmental disability” in America, has varying levels of intensity (2). Despite this variation, Autistic children still exhibit noticeable commonalities including spontaneous abnormal behavior and lack of clear communication.
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How Can We help?
Currently, there is no cure for autism. Visits with occupational therapists, and also attending specially designed schools, have been the most prominent methods of dealing with autism. Another promising method, called mainstreaming, involves educating autistic children in mainstream schools rather than specially designed ones. This experience can allow autistic children to “...learn to interact with their peers and to control and modify their behaviors” (5). Temple Grandin of Colorado State University, a professor whose personal experience of living with autism has taught her much, has stated that integration in mainstream school is of crucial importance, and could lead to significant day-to-day improvement in the Children’s lives (6).