A public service announcement on behalf of committed parents like you aimed at providing resources for understanding the hurdles to finding a solution to the unique needs of each child. Research has indicated that early intervention (birth-age 3) is the most beneficial time for treatment for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders.

• Unable to cope with change in routines

• Falls more than usual• Seems socially

awkward/misunderstands social situations

• Sees things in “black and white” no grey areas

• Odd speech pattern or repetative phrases

• Overly sensitive to lights/smells/sounds

• What is It? A developmental disorder that affects a person's ability to socialize and

communicate effectively with others.

Annually 500,000 Americans are diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder. (CDC 2005) (p.1)

The diagnosis of autism spectrum was added as a special education exception in 1991 and is now the sixth most commonly utilized diagnosis in the United States.

51-91 percent of children with autism spectrum conditions, developmental concerns had been recorded before 3 years of age.

The median age of earliest autism spectrum diagnosis is between 4.5 to 5.5 years

A person with Asperger Syndrome have only moderate social and communication impairments and often grow up to be productive members of society

She behaved independently and somehow separate from other kids like something was off or not right.

She would have occasional outbursts over fixations of objects or circumstances.

She appeared clumsy and unaware of what she was doing always spilling or breaking things without realizing the consequences of her actions.

My daughter Emily was diagnose with Aspergers approximately a year after her sixth birthday. However, with ongoing speech/occupational therapy and medication she has a bright future with every day as a struggle and a blessing.

Emily is on the left with her sister

diagnosis of autism at age 2 can be reliable, valid, and stable. Despite research evidence, many children do not receive a final diagnosis until much later

Do not have as many opportunities for enriching classes due to limited classroom aid support/ limited willingness by general education teachers.

High ability in regards to functional tasks, but have difficulty with comprehension or problem solving skills.

Talk to your health care practioner, your local schools and the leaders of education in your community about getting your child tested.

It doesn’t take very long, its inexpensive, and it helps further the education and research.

Most importantly it offers your child the chance to have a wonderfully functional future.

Talk with national groups aimed at supporting parents and providing unbiased information.

National Autsim Society http://www.nationalautismassociation.org/

Autism Societyhttp://

www.nationalautismassociation.org/

Angel, D. (2009) Parenting Aspergers Resource Guide. Retrieved from: http://www.parentingaspergers.com/?hop=lifestar20  Borgman, S. (2011). Have You Seen These Autism Spectrum Statistics?. Prospering with Aspergers. Retrieved from: http://www.myaspergers.net/autism- statistics/ Mayo Clinic. (20100. Asperger's Syndrome. Mayo Clinic. Retrieved from: http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/aspergers-syndrome/DS00551

WebMD. (2008). Asperger's Syndrome - Symptoms. Healthwise. Retrieved from:

http://www.webmd.com/brain/autism/tc/aspergers-syndrome-symptoms