autism 101 by asnv (last updated june 2015)
TRANSCRIPT
Autism 101:An Introduction to
Understanding Autism
1990 2000 2005 2010 2012 20140
0.5
1
1.5
2
Percent of Children with Autism
There are similarities found across the spectrum including:- Difficulty in communications- Deficits in social functioning- Restricted interests- Repetitive behaviors- Difference in processing sensory input
VS
Where a person is on the spectrum CAN CHANGE due to a variety of reasons including development, circumstances, and targeted interventions.
Autism is a spectrum disorder, meaning that it can range in severity and won’t look exactly the same in any two people with autism
What is Autism?
Basic Facts About Autismo One in 68 children is affected.
o Lifelong developmental disorder
o Children and adults can learn and improve
o Early intervention is important
o Genetic link, can run in families
o More common in males (approximately five times more common)
o Looks different at different ages, developmental delay
o Frequently occurs with other diagnoses (this is called co-morbidity)
o Autism costs a family $60,000 a year on average
10 Myths about People with Autism
All people with autism1. Are savants (Rain Man stereotype)2. Don’t have feelings, have no empathy3. Don’t build relationships, can’t get married or
have families4. Are violent and a danger to society5. Have no language skills6. Can’t have jobs7. Can’t go to school or be in standard classrooms8. Are entirely dependent on a caretaker9. Are miserable and suffering10. Need help and want a cure for autism
The truth? Every person with autism is a unique individual. Everyone has different needs, wants, abilities, strengths, lifestyles, and goals.
http://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/actearly/
The earlier the diagnosis, the earlier supports can be provided! A lot of frustration, worry, social discomfort, and exclusion can be avoided.
Act Early.
o Lack of social engagement (eye contact, cuddling, smiling
back, pointing at objects to show interest, prefers to play
alone)
o Unusual responses to sensory input (Stares at lights, only
eats certain foods, cover ears)
o Repetitive body movements – rocking, spinning, or
flapping
o Difficulty with change or transition
o Communication impediments - Stops using speech or sign
language (regressive autism); May be non-verbal or hyper-
verbal; Echoes words or phrases (echolalia)
Every individuals shows different symptoms, and having some of these symptoms doesn’t necessarily mean the person has autism. It’s very important to get an official diagnosis from a licensed professional!
Warning!
How to support someone with autism
1. Sensory issues2. Anxiety / Trauma3. Visual supports4. Literal language5. Behavior is communication6. Time for breaks – for you and them
7. Transition points
8. Choice – empowerment9. Won’t vs. Can’t 10. Having autism means your brain works
differently.
Be Patient.
Listen.Avoid sudden change.If you don’t know, ask.Assume Competence.
Top Tips
Ten things to think about in supporting individuals with autism
Build RapportOne of the best ways to build a connection? No mystery here – just like
in any other relationship that’s important to you,
it helps to show a genuine interest in the
other person’s activities or fascinations!
How to Support Autistic Individuals
Consider the Environment
Sensory issueso Ordero Noiseo Smellso Temperatureo Safetyo Fears
Many individuals with autism process sensory input differently. For example, they may be especially sensitive to it and easily overwhelmed, or could focus exclusively on one strong sense and be unaware of the rest.
Golden Rule: R-E-S-P-E-C-To Use a soft voiceo Gently say hello and call them by
nameo Be calmo Give them spaceo Do not touch or hug without
permissiono Allow time for a responseo You may not get a responseo Do not expect eye contacto Help the person learn that he is safe
with youo Be patient; it may take a long time to
feel that you are making a connection
o Accept the person’s quirkso If the person is having a hard time,
ask how you can helpo If you’re speaking to a child, ask the
parents for some tips
o “Person first” language means referring to the person before their autism, such as “individual with autism”
o “Identity first” language means referring to autism first, such as “an autistic person”
o “Neurotypical” (NT) refers to an individual with neural functioning that is perceived as normative or typical, e.g. someone without autism
o “Neurodiverse” (ND) refers to a community or group of individuals with distinct neurological or cognitive features
o Not everyone agrees about what kind of language is most respectful
Practicing Verbal Respect
We recommend that you ask what language the person prefers. And then use what language they feel comfortable with, not the language you prefer.
TRY THIS!
Autism AcceptanceInitiated by the Autism Society of Northern Virginia’s autistic board member, autism acceptance as an unambiguously positive response to the negativity frequently associated with autism.
Autism Acceptance is actively offering autistic individuals the supports they need to be fully included as valuable members of our families, schools, workplaces, neighborhoods and faith communities.
How Are We Doing?
o VA ranks 41st out of 51 states (and DC) on disability inclusion
o Autistic adults struggle with employment, housing, bullying and social isolation.
o The waitlist for long-term services has over 10,000 people on it and the wait for services averages 8-10 years
Our MissionTo build community for all impacted by autism through
education, advocacy and support
We believe that no individual should walk this journey alone.
What do we do?
SUPPORT
EDUCATE
ADVOCATE
Provide all affected by autism with knowledge, resources, & acceptanceLunch Bunch ● Autism 101 ● Online support group ● Monthly Newsletter
Safety trainings ● Resource directory ● The Autism Partnership (TAP) Program
Provide resources and community for autistic individuals and their familiesSocial nights ● YouToo Tennis ● Mini-grant program ● Assistive Technology Program ● START Robotics
Build a welcoming, inclusive, & supportive region Autism Advocate Forums● Workplace presentations ● Acceptance Walk ● Arts for Autism ● Local, state, and federal advocacy
The Autism Society of Northern Virginia is here for YOU!
We advocate, inform and…share the journey
Contact [email protected]