Autism is a complex developmental disability - the result of a neurological disorder that affects the functioning of the brain. Autism prevents children and adolescents from interacting typically with others, affecting various aspects of their social and psychological development.

Diagnoses of this disability are at a record high, with 1 in 150 children showing some form of Autism. Still, the cause remains unknown.

What we do know is that intensive behavioural intervention is essential in order for children with Autism to develop critical life skills and to reach their full potential.

Signs of Autism

Some common signs of Autism include impairment in the following areas:

1. Social interaction as seen by
   • overall unresponsiveness
   • little to no eye contact
   • avoidance or indifference to playing with other children
2. Communication as seen by
   • a lack of or severe delay in speech development
   • the repetitive use of language
   • inability to initiate or sustain a conversation
3. Behaviour as seen by
   • engaging in repetitive behaviours and inappropriate routines
   • strong resistance to change in routines
   • preoccupation with parts of objects
   • inappropriate response to their environment