| By :
Jamie Simpson
Autism is a developmental disorder that is characterized by repetitive behavior and impaired social interaction. Autism usually affects a child's ability to communicate and form close relationships, even with their own parents. Many children with autism also have mental retardation. Some parents of autistic children find assistance for their children from various therapies or at care homes. Symptoms and traits Children typically start developing symptoms of autism before the age of 3. Some of the general symptoms of autism in children include: -Difficulty with communication. This may include verbal and non-verbal communication. The child may have trouble speaking or understanding language, or may even lose some language skills they had started to develop early on. Additionally, gestures, such as pointing or waving may be difficult for the child to perform or understand. -Difficulty relating to surroundings. Social interactions may be difficult, especially relating to other people or joining in conversations, even after the ability to speak has developed. -Prefers to be alone. While other children play in groups and make friends, an autistic child may tend to play alone. -Unusual behavior when playing. Often times an autistic toddler will line up their toys meticulously or stack objects in a particular way. -Sameness. Autistic children are usually very resistant to change, and prefer to keep their usual routine and have everything in its place. They may prefer to follow the same pattern of daily activities, with certain dressing or eating rituals. Any change can seem disruptive to them, and they may get mad or throw a fit. -Repetitive movements. The child may make repetitive body movements or even injure themselves by hand flapping, skin picking, spinning, hand biting, eye poking, or head banging. -Lack of imagination. Playtime will generally consist of constructing or moving objects instead of playing games or making up stories. -Savantism. With a form of autism, the child or person may have outstanding skills in specific areas, such as numbers, music, or art, without being taught. For example, in the movie "Rain Man", Raymond was autistic and could count toothpicks or cards with exceptional speed and remember exactly what he had counted. Causes The exact causes of autism is still unknown, but research has shown a few factors that are likely contributors. Studies suggest there is a strong genetic basis to the disorder, a gene possibly being passed from parents to children. Other theories have suggested abnormalities in brain structure or the immune system attacking inappropriate areas of the brain could cause autism. Some childhood vaccines have also inconclusively been linked to autism. What can be done There is no known cure for autism, though, depending on the severity, treatments can help people with the disorder to live almost normal lives. Speech, physical, and occupational therapy, as well as special education and the implementing of routines may be beneficial to autistic ones. As the child gets older, care homes exist that can help children, teenagers, and young adults with autism to live in a safe and structured environment.
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