Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
- Autism is one of the most common neurodevelopmental disorders affecting children across North America (CDC)
- Heterogeneous disorder where each individual displays different symptoms and behaviors at varying intensities (First Signs Organization).
- According to the DSM-IV-TR the five types of ASD are : Autistic Disorder, Asperger Syndrome, Childhood Disintegrative Disorder, Retts's Disorder and Pervasive Developmental Disorder Not Otherwise Specifified (American Psychiatric Association, 2000, p. 59-64).
- In the United States, the approximate incidence of ASD is 6 per 1,000 children or 114,000 children under the age of 5 (Watling & Dietz, 2007).
- Children with ASD often display difficulty in areas of communication, social interaction and behaviors (First Signs Organization).
- Some other symptoms that area a pressing concern for parents include: self- injurious behaviors, stereotypic motor movements, aimless running and aggression (Watling & Dietz, 2007)
- It is important to note that each child with ASD is very unique in their abilities, symptoms and needs
- Individuals react differently to different environmental stimuli and need different coping mechanisms when they are feeling overwhelmed.
- Some areas that may be difficult for children with ASD, which an OT may work on include fine motor skills, concentration on given tasks, switching tasks, self-care (feeding, toileting, washing hands, dressing), and social interactions (playing and talking with peers).