You may hear people use the term, “on the spectrum” when they’re referring to those they believe suffer from autism. A lot of myths around the condition persists despite the advances that experts have made in recent years concerning better education around autism. Answering the question, “What is the autism spectrum?” means you’re getting into a deeper understanding of the condition. Parents should understand that a diagnosis of an autism spectrum disorder in their child doesn’t mean they can’t have a bright future in front of them. If your child or loved one has recently received a diagnosis of autism from their doctor, it’s time to reach out for expert-level help. To learn more, contact Camp Worth today.
Under One Umbrella
Autism spectrum disorder refers to the various conditions exhibited by those dealing with problems related to social skills, repetitive behaviors, and communication issues. People asking the question, “what is the autism spectrum?” should understand that there is no one kind of autism. Some former classifications used for this purpose include:
- Autistic Disorder
- Asperger’s Syndrome
- Childhood Disintegrative Disorder
There’s no consensus around what causes the disorder. A variety of environmental and genetic factors likely play a role in the development of autism spectrum disorder in children. Some people may only have mild symptoms, while others experience severe difficulty when it comes to learning, thinking, and solving everyday problems.
Common Signs of Autism Spectrum Disorder
After you learn the answer to the question, “What is the autism spectrum?” the next step is learning about the symptoms that go along with this diagnosis. Children with autism spectrum disorder typically start showing signs of this condition by the time they are around two to three years old. Parents should watch for atypical developmental delays in how their child communicates and interacts with others.
When looking for the signs of an autism spectrum disorder, it’s essential to understand the symptoms parents should look for when it comes to the possibility of their child having an autism spectrum disorder.
Common signs of the condition include:
- Being non-verbal by the age of two
- Regularly avoiding eye contact with people around them
- Losing previously acquired verbal skills
- A lack of interest in communicating with or interacting with others
- Problems expressing empathy for others
- Exhibiting repetitive behaviors like flapping or rocking
- Having intense reactions to external stimuli, like loud sounds, textures, or lights
Parents dealing with children diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder may struggle to find support in their community. Many available programs find themselves stretched for resources. Many parents also run into issues trying to make accommodations for their child’s educational needs.
Treating Autism Spectrum Disorder
Early intervention makes a big difference in a child’s life. It allows them to eventually develop into a functional adult with varying degrees of independence. At Camp Worth, we offer children and adolescents ages 11-17 the chance to receive focused, individualized care for their autistic spectrum disorder.
We also provide support and education to parents still struggling to answer the question, “What is the autism spectrum?” Camp Worth offers a variety of programs and therapies that help children and adolescents build the skills needed to grow and thrive in the world.
- Counseling and behavior analysis
- Occupational therapy
- Educational services
- Medication Management
- Parent involvement and training
- Food and Nutrition
Getting treatment at our program will allow your child to learn and develop in a supportive environment. Let Camp Worth help you and your child get more understanding when it comes to asking, “What is the autism spectrum?” To learn more about our residential autism treatment program, contact Camp Worth today by calling 855.915.2545.