What is Autism?
What is Autism? The medical answer is: a neurobiological disorder. Now, if you are a parent who was just told that your child has Autism that answer is not much of a help. The same goes for friends or relatives who ask you: "What is Autism?" They probably respond: "Oh, I see" but walk away even more confused.
The best answer to give someone who wants more information on Autism is to tell them that an individual with Autism experiences the world in a different way then others.
They have a disorder that is complex and affects how they communicate their thoughts and feelings. Socially, they have a hard time communicating with others. They have sensory needs as they are highly sensitive to textures that can be too soft for one individual and yet in another individual with ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorder) it can be too rough.
Routine is extremely important to individuals who have Autistic disorder. Change in these routines often results in emotional outbursts or panic attacks. Some parents carry business cards with them that describe; "What is Autism?" on them. Then if a situation occurs in public, they can just pass on the card and tend to their child rather then be bothered with a long drawn out explanation. It is important to note that you should not feel obliged ever to explain if you do not wish to. Your child comes first at all times.
If people want more information on Autism or the history of Autism, you can have printed on the cards a website address that refers to Autism. They can then freely search at home later. We have listed some of the top sites on Autism below, for more information.
Recommended Autism sites:
Autism Asperger Publishing Company
