Autism continues to be one of the most prevalent topics in our community. While autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is not new, more children than ever are classified as autistic, partly explained by improved diagnosis and awareness. While there is no cure for autism, research shows that early diagnosis and intervention improve chances that the child will benefit from treatment.
Check out the Q&A below to learn more about this unique condition, and where you and your family can go for support and treatment.
What is autism and how common is it?
According to Autism Speaks, the world’s leading autism science and advocacy organization, Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and autism are both general terms for a group of complex disorders of brain development. These disorders are characterized, in varying degrees, by difficulties in social interaction, verbal and nonverbal communication and repetitive behaviors. Currently, one in 88 children is estimated to be on the autism spectrum.
Over the last five years, scientists have identified a number of rare gene changes, or mutations, associated with autism. A small number of these are sufficient to cause autism by themselves. Most cases of autism, however, appear to be caused by a combination of autism risk genes and environmental factors influencing early brain development.
What are the signs of autism?
The following red flags may indicate your child is at risk for an autism spectrum disorder.
•No big smiles or other warm, joyful expressions by 6 months or thereafter
•No back-and-forth sharing of sounds, smiles or other facial expressions by nine months
•No babbling by 12 months
•No back-and-forth gestures such as pointing, showing, reaching or waving by 12 months
•No words by 16 months
•No meaningful, two-word phrases (not including imitating or repeating) by 24 months
•Any loss of speech, babbling or social skills at any age
If your child exhibits any of the above signs, please don’t delay in asking your pediatrician or family doctor for an evaluation.
How is autism diagnosed?
If you are concerned your child is at risk for autism, please speak with your physician. He/she may recommend setting up an appointment with a specialist, who can evaluate your child.
Where can Orange County families go for treatment?
In partnership with UC Irvine, Chapman University College of Educational Studies and CHOC Children’s, The Center for Autism & Neurodevelopmental Disorders (formerly For OC Kids) is a leader in education, assessment, diagnosis and care coordination for children with autism and other neurodevelopmental disorders. In a first-of-its-kind public/private partnership, the Thompson Family Foundation and the Children and Families Commission of Orange County in 2012 provided $14.8 million to create a new vision, led by Dr. Joseph Donnelly, pediatric neurologist and director of The Center for Autism & Neurodevelopmental Disorders. This investment allowed The Center to expand from a medical focus to a multi-disciplinary practice, offering a full range of treatment services.
What types of treatment does The Center offer?
The Center offers a complete range of high-quality diagnostic and treatment services to children, adolescents and young adults from birth to age 22, including Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), social skills classes, psychology, psychiatry, occupational therapy, speech and language therapy, and a wellness program. It strives to serve all children and families, and accepts most types of insurance.
What types of resources does The Center offer for parents?
The Center offers a multitude of parent education classes and support groups, including monthly technology workshops, individualized education program (IEP) planning seminars, and an autism education series. Additionally, The Center is home to F.A.S.T. (Families and Schools Together), a unique program designed to build bridges with schools and help parents navigate the educational system.
The Center for Autism & Neurodevelopmental Disorders is located at 2500 Red Hill Ave, in Santa Ana. For more information, please call 949-267-0400 or visit www.thecenter4autism.org.
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It’s so great that the resources available to children with autism have increased so much over the years, as you said. My niece was recently diagnosed with autism, and as you said, she doesn’t do a lot of big smiles or facial expressions on her own. It’s good to know that the cause is usually genetic, and I think I can see some of those traits in my sister, as well.