Updated February 2026
Autism is a spectrum disorder. In other words, the symptoms and characteristics of autism can present themselves in a wide variety of combinations, from mild to severe. Although autism is defined by a certain set of behaviours, children and adults can exhibit any combination of the behaviours in any degree of severity. Two children, both with the same diagnosis, can act very differently from one another and have varying skills.
Vizually Speaking understands that finding time in today’s highly demanding world to create customized visual aids and strategies can be a great challenge. Vizually Speaking is committed to working collaboratively, providing step-by-step support and assisting in the development and implementation of customized visual aids and strategies.
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Workshop Presentation - Visual Aids and Strategies
EVERYONE benefits from Visual Aids!
Contact Vizually Speaking today to learn how customized Visual Aids and Strategies can decrease undesired behaviour(s), improve communication, promote independence, and increase self-confidence. Through our dynamic presentation, you will:
✓ Uncover the importance of using customized Visual Aids and Strategies.
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✓ Support independence and decrease undesired behaviours.
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In North America, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) was historically classified as a Pervasive Developmental Disorder in the DSM-IV, published in 1994. The DSM-5, which was published in 2013, updated the classification and replaced the Pervasive Developmental Disorders category with a single umbrella category of Autism Spectrum Disorder. This change aimed to create a more unified framework and provide clearer diagnostic criteria. The diagnosis of ASD involves careful evaluation by trained professionals, incorporating observations, parental input, and a detailed assessment of behavior. While individuals with ASD share common features related to communication and social interaction, the severity and range of symptoms can vary widely from person to person. It’s essential to recognize that no two individuals with ASD are the same.
Autistic Disorder is characterized by challenges in social interaction, communication, and imaginative play that become evident before the age of three. It also involves repetitive behaviours, as well as limited interests and activities.
Childhood Disintegrative Disorder, also known as Heller’s Syndrome, is characterized by typical developmental milestones during the first two years of life, followed by a profound and significant loss of previously acquired skills across multiple domains, including language, social interaction, and motor functions.
Pervasive Developmental Disorder – Not Otherwise Specified (PDD-NOS), commonly known as atypical autism, was diagnosed when a child displayed significant impairments in social and communicative behaviours but did not fully meet the criteria for a specific autism spectrum diagnosis.
Asperger’s Disorder is characterized by difficulties in social interactions and the presence of restricted interests and repetitive behaviours, while maintaining language development within normal limits and typically demonstrating average to above-average intelligence. In the DSM-5, Asperger’s Disorder is now integrated into the broader Autism Spectrum Disorder category. But the core characteristics remain consistent with that description.
Rett’s Disorder: a progressive disorder which, to date, has occurred only in girls. A period of normal development followed by the loss of previously acquired skills and loss of purposeful use of the hands replaced with repetitive hand movements beginning at age 1-4 years.
Therefore, there is no standard “type” or “typical” autistic person. Families may encounter a variety of terms to describe different presentations within the spectrum, including phrases like “autistic tendencies,” “autism spectrum,” “high-functioning” or “low-functioning autism,” and terms like “more-abled” or “less-abled.” Regardless of the specific diagnosis, individuals on the autism spectrum can thrive and make meaningful progress through tailored education, appropriate support, and customized visual aids and strategies. (autismontario.com)
Vizually Speaking understands that finding time in today’s highly demanding world to create customized visual aids and strategies can be a great challenge. Vizually Speaking is committed to working collaboratively, providing step-by-step support and assisting in the development and implementation of customized visual aids and strategies.
Contact us today for your FREE consultation.
