Webinar

Notes from the Autism Society's Webinar, January 2013

 

 

Autism affects how the brain processes information.  It affects ALL areas of the brain.  Physical changes in the brain are seen at birth.  The brain is larger with more connections in some areas than in others.  Brain growth is faster.  This evens out with age.  --this is the work/findings of Eric Courchesne. 

 

There are varying degrees of severity, so it can be challenging to diagnose at times.  "There may be 11 or 12 different types of autism" (the reference on this one was unavailable, but the speaker stated this). To receive a diagnosis, there must be signs before the age of 3.  Siblings of a child with autism are likely to be diagnosed with ADHD (great, I didn't know that, but that makes sense since the 2 diagnosis seem to go hand in hand). 

 

Those diagnosed with Aspergers usually don't have a speech delay; in fact, their speech might be advanced.  The way he/she communicates however, is different.  Social interactions can be difficult for people on the spectrum.  They want to relate to others, but don't know how to.  Autism labeling is now being condensed into one diagnosis--ASD's, autism spectrum disorders. 

 

Genetic and environmental factors are likely responsible for autism.  Nothing was mentioned about the possibility that the immune system is involved.  "We aren't going to find a single cause".  I agree with the speaker on this one!

 

Austim is now considered an "epidemic" given 1 out of 88 children are diagnosed with the disorder, and the number continues to rise.  Adults on the spectrum aren't happy with the word "epidemic" because is implies that something is wrong with them.  Quote from an autistic adult, "it makes me who I am.  I wouldn't change that part of me".  :) :) :)

 

At age 6 or 7, some children no longer meet the criteria for an ASD.  Their brains don't change, but their coping mechanisms do.  Interesting...

 

90% or more have some sort of sensory concerns.  One sensory "channel" may be used at a time.  For example, a person on the spectrum may be able to listen to you (auditory), but not look at you at the same time (visual).  Some are underregistering (hyposensitive to stimulation), or overregistering (hypersensitive).  Info comes in TOO BIG or TOO SMALL (seek out bigger input i.e. spicy foods).  WOW--that explains Aiden's crazy diet a little bit! 

 

Coping mechanisms:

• use first/then statements
 
• "wait time" for reaction, don't repeat over and over--let them process info
 
• keep in mind many are visual thinkers
 
• try to understand the function behind behaviors (i.e. hand flapping to provide sensory input/control the environment)
 
• try video modeling
 
• be consistent

 

www.firstsigns.org first signs of autism