Living with Autism

According to the Autism Society of America, autism is the fastest-growing developmental disability in the United States, affecting 1 in 166 births and growing at a rate of 10 to 17% annually. More than 1 million Americans have been diagnosed with some degree of autism. This wiki is designed to help:

• families of autistic children of all ages better understand the disease
• new parents watch for early signs of autism.
• share resources and experience among families online for support, as well as provide information on external support networks.
  
• discuss and debate treatment options, both traditional and nontraditional
  

What is Autism?

Autism is a neurological disorder that affects social interaction and communication skills. It is most commonly diagnosed in children between 1 and 3 years of age. A single cause for autism is unknown, but various theories postulate that it stems from malfunctions of certain areas of the brain.

What are the signs?

Early diagnosis and treatment can reduce the lifelong care costs of autism by as much as two-thirds, says the ASA. Visit this section to learn more about what signs to watch for in your young child.

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Treatment Options

While there is no cure for autism, there are several approaches to treatment, including education, biomedical, and dietary.

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Parenting an Autistic Child

This is an online forum designed for the exchange of information and questions: Here you'll find advice from other families who are raising autistic children of all ages. You can ask questions about treatment, school adjustment, special education, and transitioning your child to adulthood.

Support Groups & Local ASA Chapters

There are multitudes of support groups at both the local and national level that can help families dealing with an autistic child. Click here for a list.

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Other Stuff

• Teacher's Corner (a page where teachers can exchange ideas, resources, and curriculum)
  
• Glossary (create a link to a page with terms that will help readers better understand autism)
  

• Resources (create a link to a page with books, websites, organizations and support groups)

• How to help (create and link to a list of organizations, events and groups where you can donate)

• Click here to see what others have done.
• Adoption World
• Fitness Tips
• The Raw Way