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Autism
Understanding the Disorder By Lisamarie Sanders
Getting Help
Early diagnosis leads to early intervention, which has been shown to be most effective in helping autistic children. The ASA recommends preschool programs that emphasize "early, appropriate and intensive educational interventions for young children." Programs should also offer some degree of inclusion, instruction based on the interests of the child, extensive use of visuals to go along with instruction and a highly structured schedule of activities. Parent and staff training programs are also very important. The ASA suggests, "In addition to appropriate educational supports in the area of academics, students with autism should have training in functional living skills at the earliest possible age." This includes learning how to cross the street safely or how to ask for assistance when needed. An effective program should also "be flexible in nature, rely on positive reinforcement, be re-evaluated on a regular basis and provide a smooth transition from home to school to community environments."
The Cure
"At this time, there is no cure for autism," says Dr. Aiello. However, early intervention can lessen the effects of the disorder. Although the majority of autistic individuals will continue to exhibit some of the signs of autism to some degree throughout their entire lives, the ASA assures, "With appropriate intervention, many of the associated behaviors can be positively changed, even to the point in some cases, that the child or adult may appear to the untrained person to no longer have autism."
