What is Autism?

What is autism?

Autism is a brain difference. It means people think and feel in ways that are special and different. Everyone with autism is unique. They might like certain things a lot or find some sounds and lights too strong.

Some people with autism may need extra help. Things like pictures or apps can be useful to understand or talk.

What are the signs of autism?

Here is how you can tell if someone might have autism:

• They might find it hard to talk to other people.
• They might like to do the same thing over and over.
• They might like to be alone a lot.
• They might not like loud noises or bright lights.
• They might have a strong interest in a particular topic.

It’s important to remember that everyone is different. Some people with autism might have some of these signs, while others might not.

Talking to a doctor can help understand better. Using pictures and simple words can make it easier to talk about autism.

How do doctors know if someone has autism?

Doctors find out if someone has autism by talking with them and their family. They ask questions and watch how the person plays, talks, and acts.

Sometimes, doctors use special tests to help them understand more. They might also talk to teachers or other people who know the person well.

If you want to know more, there are books and videos that can help. Parents and teachers can also help explain things.

Can autism be fixed?

Autism is something you are born with. It is not an illness like a cold. So, it cannot be "cured" or "fixed". People with autism think and feel differently. That's okay! There are ways to help people with autism, like special learning tools and talking to someone who understands.

Why do some people have autism?

Autism happens because of differences in the brain. Scientists are not sure why these differences happen. It might be because of genes, which are like codes in our bodies that come from our parents. Other things, like the environment around us, might also play a part.

Some supportive tools to help understand more about autism are books, videos, or talking to a doctor. You can also find people who know a lot about autism to ask your questions.

Is autism caused by genes?

Some parts of autism can be passed down from parents. This means it can run in families.

Not only genes cause autism. Many things can make autism more likely.

Using pictures and videos can help understand more about autism. Talking with someone who knows a lot can also help.

Do vaccines cause autism?

What are some ways to help people with autism?

There are different ways to help people with autism. These are called therapies. Here are some common ones:

• Speech therapy: This helps with talking and understanding words.
• Occupational therapy: This helps with everyday skills like dressing and playing.
• Behaviour therapy: This helps with learning good habits and listening.
• Social skills classes: This helps with making friends and talking to people.

It is important to talk to doctors or teachers who know about autism. They can help find the best way to help.

Can grown-ups have autism?

Yes, they can. Autism is something you are born with. It is not just for kids. Some people find out they have autism when they are grown-ups.

If you want to learn more, you can:

• Talk to a doctor or a helper.
• Look at easy books about autism.
• Ask someone you trust to help you find information.

Are more boys or girls autistic?

What is the autism spectrum?

The autism spectrum is a way to describe different kinds of autism. Autism is something that can make it hard to talk, play, or learn like others. Everyone with autism is different, so the spectrum shows all the different ways people have autism.

If you want to learn more, try using pictures, watch videos, or ask an adult to help explain.

How does autism affect talking and understanding others?

Some people with autism find it hard to talk with others. They might not speak much or find it tricky to understand what others mean.

Here are some ways autism can affect talking and understanding:

• Finding the right words can be hard.
• Understanding jokes or sarcasm isn't easy.
• They might not look at your face when talking.
• They like to talk about their favorite things a lot.

Tools that might help:

• Use pictures or drawings to help explain things.
• Try using clear and simple words.
• Be patient and give them extra time to understand.

How do sensory problems affect people with autism?

Some people with autism have strong reactions to sights, sounds, smells, tastes, touch, or movement.

This can make them feel upset or uncomfortable. For example, loud noises can hurt their ears, or bright lights can be too much for their eyes.

Supportive tools can help. Noise-canceling headphones can make things quieter. Sunglasses can help with bright lights.

If something feels too much, a quiet place can help them feel better.

Can people with autism live on their own?

Some people with autism can live on their own, but others might need some help. It depends on the person and what they need.

Here are some things that can help:

• Learning skills: People can learn important skills like cooking, cleaning, and taking care of money.
• Support from others: Family, friends, or helpers can give support and advice.
• Using technology: Phones, computers, or special apps can help remember things and stay organized.

Everyone is different, and that's okay. Getting support and learning new things can help people with autism live more independently.

How are autism and Asperger's syndrome different?

Autism and Asperger's syndrome are both conditions that affect how people understand and interact with the world. Here is a simple way to see how they are different:

• Autism: People with autism may have trouble talking, playing, or doing everyday things. They might like to do the same things over and over. Some may need more help and support.
• Asperger's Syndrome: People with Asperger's usually talk and play more easily than those with autism. They might have strong interests in specific topics and like routines. They need less help.

If you or someone you know has questions, it's good to talk to a doctor or an expert. They can help understand and provide support.

Using pictures or stories can also help to understand better. There are special tools and apps that make learning easier too.

How does early help support children with autism?

Early help means giving support to children with autism as soon as possible. This is important because:

• It can make it easier for them to learn and grow.
• It helps them talk and play with others.
• It can make them feel happier and more comfortable.

Here are some things that might help:

• Going to special classes or games that teach skills.
• Working with therapists, like speech or play therapists.
• Being patient and giving lots of praise when they do well.

Using simple pictures or charts can also help them understand better. It's good to start helping as soon as you can!

What is applied behavior analysis (ABA)?

Applied behavior analysis, or ABA, is a way to help people learn new things and behave in better ways. It can help children and adults. Some people use ABA to become better at school or home.

If you want to learn more about ABA, you can ask teachers or caregivers. They may use pictures, simple words, and games to make learning fun and easy!

Can you test for autism?

How can families help someone with autism?

How common is autism?

Autism is something that some people have from when they are very young.

Today, we know more kids have autism than we used to think. Experts say that out of every 100 kids, about 1 or 2 might have autism.

If you want help to learn more, you can ask a teacher or use a tool like picture cards or storybooks.