April brings us to Autism Awareness Month.  Children with autism are extremely amazing individuals and as this month begins, I am flooded with all the wonderful students and families I have been connected with throughout my career.  You are there to not only witness the amazing moments but to see the challenges. I’ve been there for the tears of success as well as struggle, shedding some myself.  You are even rewarded in staying connected with these families when you move on.  

Are you aware the most recent data from the CDC reports 1 out of 54 children within the United States are diagnosed?  This data has changed significantly over the last decade and makes the likelihood of each of us knowing someone on the spectrum is extremely likely.  

Autism is four times more likely to be diagnosed in boys than in girls.  The diagnosis is extremely complex and a very emotional journey for not only the individual but their entire family.  Data also suggests that early intervention is the key to success, yet many individuals are not diagnosed until after age 4.  

It is important to understand that Individuals diagnosed with autism struggle with social interactions, communication, and sensory processing.  These individuals have difficulty understanding social cues and don’t always respond to cues as you or I would.  Additionally, there are struggles with literal meaning as well as puns, riddles, or even sarcasm.  Often the way a child communicates can be one of the first signs of autism.

We need to continue to work harder at identifying these individuals earlier in order to set them on a path for success.  It is critical that we be inclusive especially with support options.

Some additional resources to learn more:

www.autismspeaks.org

https://www.autism-society.org/

https://autismwny.org/

https://nationalautismassociation.org/

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