The Autistic Spectrum in Children
Be Involved. Act Now. Champion Autism. is a San Diego-based nonprofit that provides resources for parents with autistic children. We also aim to educate the public about autism spectrum disorder and raise funds for programs geared towards affected families. Autism, also known as autism spectrum disorder, is an extremely complex developmental disability. It’s typically characterized by a specific set of behaviors that appear during early childhood, between the ages of two and three. The autism spectrum is exhibited by certain symptoms that can create challenges with socialization, repetitive behaviors, speech and nonverbal communication.
Since autism is a spectrum disorder, this condition can cause some distinct characteristics and behavioral differences that affect each individual in a unique way and to different degrees. So, what is autism spectrum disorder? Continue reading to learn more about this condition and how it affects those who have it.
Typically Exhibited Signs of Autism
Because the symptoms of the autistic spectrum show themselves early on, it’s important to be aware of what they are. Autism is a disorder that impacts the nervous system, and while it varies in severity it can impair communication and social interactions. If you notice the typical signs exhibited in toddlers, you can find support for you’re your child earlier on and help them as they develop. These are a few of the autism spectrum symptoms you may see in childhood:
- Avoids eye contact
- Prefers to be alone
- Grapples with understanding others’ emotions
- Is nonverbal or has delayed language development
- Repeats words or phrases
- Displays repetitive behavior like flapping, rocking or spinning
- Has selected, almost obsessive interests
- Little to no interest in creating peer relationships
While symptoms of the autistic spectrum in children are not something they can simply outgrow, studies have shown that an early diagnosis can lead to a significantly improved outcome. That’s why it’s so important to look for the signs and provide support as soon as possible. Our nonprofit in San Diego, CA, is dedicated to educating parents about the disorder and what they can do to alleviate symptoms. If you’ve wondered what the autism spectrum disorder is and what to do about it, you can learn more about lessening symptoms and associated side effects at Champion Autism.
Therapy for Autism Spectrum Disorder
Every case involving the autistic spectrum in toddlers is different, so every therapy plan needs to be personalized to attend to the specific needs of the child. Depending on the child, some forms of care will include behavioral therapy, medication or both. Many treatments involve a therapist coming to a patient’s home to perform treatment in a comfortable place. With the right combination of remedies, autism spectrum disorder symptoms can be managed well. Family members should also be involved, so they can receive instruction on how to help their child cope.
It’s common for the autism spectrum in children to include sleep disturbance, seizures or gastrointestinal issues. The treatment options available to you also address these medical issues in-depth. A properly conducted regimen can greatly assist with attention, learning and other behaviors that result from autistic spectrum disorder. Your autistic child can develop skills and habits that will allow them to have a better quality of life.
Find More Resources with Champion Autism
If your child is displaying signs of the autistic spectrum, you can find the support and resources you need at Be Involved. Act Now. Champion Autism. Our Access to Care Program (ATC) and Allay Autism Program (AAP) allow families to participate in and receive financial aid for programs that provide the psychological and behavioral treatment their children need. Call our San Diego office at (888) 815-2676 for more information. You don’t have to do this alone. We’re here right along with you.
