In Ontario, there are an estimated 100,000 individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Yet, most of the public, including many professionals in the medical, educational, and vocational fields, are still unaware of how autism affects people and how they can effectively work with individuals with autism (autism.net). The word Autism means “self”. It is a term that was introduced in 1943, by Dr. Leo Kanner, who used it to refer to individuals who failed to relate to other people and their environment. It is a lifelong disability that is not curable, however, does respond well to intervention.
A person with Autism may experience difficulties in communication, leisure play, emotional and/or social interaction. Signs, symptoms, and characteristics can present themselves in a range from mild to quite severe. They may exhibit a variety of behaviours such as repetitive movements, attachment to objects, resistance to change, aggression, self-injurious behaviours, as well as extreme sensory sensitivity (hearing, sight, taste, touch, and smell). Of these difficulties, communication and social interaction are the most fundamental symptoms.
Recent studies have demonstrated the successful use of visual aids and strategies improve communication, reduce or eliminate undesired behaviours and teach appropriate social skills, assisting individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders and those with related learning difficulties to participate successfully in daily life. Research has proven that individuals with ASD typically use visual processing as their dominant information processing mode, and because of that strength they usually possess a heightened interest in visual material – (Furth, 1981)
Autism is referred to as a ‘spectrum disorder’. The phrase Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) encompasses a broad definition of autism including Pervasive Developmental Disorder Not Otherwise Specified (PDDNOS), Rett’s Syndrome, Asperger Syndrome, and Childhood Disintegrative Disorder. Research suggests that Autism is a physical neurological disorder of the brain which manifests during the first 3 years of a child’s life. Approximately 1% of the population has an Autism Spectrum Disorder. 1 in 68 children is diagnosed with Autism which affects males 4 times more than females.
There is currently no specific cause known for Autism, however, researchers, worldwide, are searching for an answer. Some research suggests that there is a genetic basis to the disorder while observing that in many families there appears to be a pattern of autism or related disorders. At this time researchers believe that there is not necessarily one gene directly linked to autism rather than its genetics is highly complex and involves several gene combinations. Other factors that are being considered are diet, immunization, and exposure to environmental substances.
Join The Conversation
Are you supporting an individual with Autism? What is the most challenging thing you deal with? Leave me a comment here, and join the conversation on Facebook where I asked, “The most challenging thing I deal with supporting an individual with Autism is_____________.”
Workshop Presentation - Visual Aids and Strategies
Contact Vizually Speaking today to learn how Visual Aids and Strategies can decrease the undesired behaviour(s), improve communication, promote independence and increase self-confidence. Through our dynamic presentation you will:
✓ Uncover the importance of using Visual Aids and Strategies.
✓ Discover the benefits of Visual Aids and Strategies.
✓ Learn how to overcome communication barriers.
✓ Promote independence and decrease undesired behaviours.
✓ Be introduced to NEW resources.
EVERYONE benefits from Visual Aids!
Vizually Speaking understands Autism Spectrum Disorders providing a service to assist the needs of an individual in your care within the spectrum. We support and train families and caregivers in designing, creating and implementing individualized visual aids and strategies. Contact us today for a FREE consultation.
