Families living with autism have an insatiable appetite for any and all autism facts. From new scientific studies to how-to blogs, there you simply can’t get enough. This makes most autism parents highly knowledgeable on the disorder. However, what about everyone outside the family?
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Friends, distant relatives, teachers, and so on all may have a few common misconceptions about the 3.5 million people living with autism. Let’s face it, they everyone else outside the family will not stay up till the early morning reading lengthy medical publications.
Spreading some autism knowledge to everyone outside your immediate family is beneficial. It is important for all to be aware of the disorder and know how to interact with an autistic child.
Here are 5 essential autism facts to spread the word and cut down many of those common misconceptions.
1. Autism is in Fact a Spectrum Disorder
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) means that each autistic child or person is unique. Due to the spectrum, autistic loved ones can be very verbal, bright, nonverbal, and more cognitively challenged. Explain to everyone outside the family what your child can or can’t do to help them understand the spectrum better.
2. People with Autism are Not All Like “Rainman”
When someone hears autism, they may think of the movie Rainman. This is common, but it is very important that everyone outside the family know that Rainman is a movie about one unique form of autism. Not all autistic people are Rainman. Set the stage for learning to help people understand that the disorder is different for everyone diagnosed.
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3. What is Asperger Syndrome?
Asperger Syndrome (AS) is a very high functioning form of autism. In fact, the term Asperger Syndrome is no longer in use, but those who have this specific form of the disorder are living life to the fullest.
People with AS can communicate well, but simply have issues in social situations. So just because your friends can communicate with your autistic child doesn’t mean there isn’t deeper emotions happening. In fact, many people living with AS experience anxiety, sensory dysfunction, and more.
4. Treatments Do Exist; Just Not a Cure
There is presently no cure for autism. However, there are treatment plans that have shown results. Some people living with the disorder can have marked improvements in their daily life with treatment. Treatments for autism include, medical and behavioral, or developmental arts-based programs.
Since each case of autism is unique, treatment plans are not a one size fits all. Your friends and extended family may be calling you with the latest and greatest treatment, but it may not help your loved one. Remember, they are just trying to help and show you and your family that they care.
5. Children Don’t Usually Outgrow Autism
Some people outside of your immediate family may not see autism as a lifelong disorder. Children with autism may not even seem like they have autism to those outside the family, especially people who only see your child every so often.
It is important to let everyone know that this is in fact a lifelong diagnosis, in most cases. Sure, your child will improve with treatment, but the disorder is still there. Friends may see your child on a great day and think he or she is cured. Not the case, and let them know in order to raise more awareness about the disorder.
Raise Awareness with Autism Facts!
It is important to continue educating everyone outside the extended family with autism facts. The spectrum creates unique cases and the need for awareness is vital. Start today by sharing and pledging to our Kickstarter campaign to help keep those living with autism safe, from anywhere, and at anytime.
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