Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurological condition which impairs communication, social interaction, and certain behavior. It includes Aspergers Syndrome, Autism, PDD-NOS (Pervasive Development Disorder-Not Otherwise Specified), and everything in between. Every child on the spectrum is different, which makes diagnoses and treatment complicated at times. However, with early intervention and therapy, ASD symptoms can improve greatly. ASD has no "cure" and no known causes. What we do know is that its prevalence is increasing at amazing rates. According to an article on www.autismspeaks.org, the CDC estimates that 1 in every 110 children born in the US are on the Autism Spectrum (and 1 in every 71 boys). This rate has increased by an estimated 600% in the past two decades.
Receiving an Autism diagnosis for your child can be confusing and frightening, but help and support are available. Please take a moment to read the information on this website, and take advantage of the resources. Most importantly, remember that you are not alone in your journey.
Autism Specific Resources:
www.angelfire.com - Site to help siblings of kids who have autism meet each other
www.autisminternetmodules.org - Autism internet modules
www.autismoutofthebox.com - Autism out of the box
www.autismspeaks.com - Autism Speaks
www.autismoregon.com - Autism Society of Oregon
www.oregondevdisgroupaso.ning.com/ - Central Oregon Online Autism Support Group
www.vanderbilt.edu/csefel/index.html - Center on the Social and Emotional Foundations for Early Learning
www.oregondevdisgroupaso.ning.com/ - Central Oregon Online Autism Support Group
www.vanderbilt.edu/csefel/index.html - Center on the Social and Emotional Foundations for Early Learning