Five Facts About Autism in Children

If you are a parent or caregiver to an autistic child, these facts may already be well known to you, but we want to spread awareness and understanding about this disorder.  It’s our belief that if we can expand public knowledge about autism, we can create a better loving and caring environment for families who have been affected.  Here are some basic facts we’d like to share.



First, autism is a spectrum disorder. That means that it is an umbrella for many different forms of the disease, people diagnosed with autism can be a little autistic or very autistic; they can show severe signs or mild symptoms. The most significant and common symptom of autism is difficulty with social communication, for example social awkwardness and avoiding eye contact or verbal communication, but keep in mind, if you know one autistic child it does not mean you know them all.  Each is different and unique in their own way.



Second, there is currently no cure for autism, but medical science is making great strides in the understanding of this disorder. Those diagnosed with autism simply perceive their surroundings differently from most people. Children with autism may receive many types of treatments, ranging from biomedical, sensory, behavioral, developmental or even arts-based. Depending upon the child, certain treatments will be more successful than others. There is no definitive cure. Autism is typically a lifelong diagnosis; however through early detection and treatment, many diagnosed with autism can learn coping skills to help them manage their difficulties and even build on their unique strengths.

​

Third, no one knows what causes autism. There have been numerous news stories about possible causes of autism, ranging from mercury in infant vaccines to genetics to the age of the parents and everything in between. The fact remains that there is no concrete research that proves or disproves any of these theories.  Many believe autism is caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors, but truthfully no one knows for certainty.



Fourth, families and caregivers of autistic children need our love and support.  Autistic children and adults need our acceptance and understanding. Regardless of the severity of symptoms, autism is challenging for everyone involved, it can be overwhelming to the entire family. Families may be under a great deal of stress, and they need all the non-judgmental help they can get from friends, extended family, and service providers. This is a passion of The Red Door Learning Montessori.  We want to reach out to families and children diagnosed with autism, among other learning challenges, and provide them with the support they need to improve their quality of life.  It is our desire to provide a learning safe haven for these children so the can flourish in their talents and skills.  We encourage you to reach out to those you know who may be affected by autism.

​

Fifth, it may seem to some that autism is a wholly negative diagnosis, but we disagree. We believe every autistic child has a talent and gift to offer the world.  We are always amazed at the stories we see each day of autistic children and adults whose perception of the world is so unique and beautiful that it enhances our own ideas and concepts. 

​

Please join us as we reach out to children, families, and caregivers affected by autism.  Take these facts with you so that you can have more understanding and acceptance of their life.