April is National Autism Awareness Month

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex developmental disability; signs typically appear during early childhood and affect a person’s ability to communicate, and interact with others.

ASD is defined by a certain set of behaviors and is a “spectrum condition” that affects individuals differently and to varying degrees.

National Autism Awareness Month represents an excellent opportunity to promote autism awareness, autism acceptance and to draw attention to the tens of thousands facing an autism diagnosis each year.

We asked Kristen Paquet, of CP to share some information with us about autism.

Children with autism see the world differently than you and I. And while this view can present challenges for children, it can also bring out some pretty amazing skills:  

Noticing and remembering details

Developing strong interests that may lead to exceptionally deep knowledge in a particular topic

Logical thinking without interfering emotions

Not worrying about what others think

Being able to look at and think about things differently

Being direct and honest

Following rules and schedules

Listening to others without judgment

Kristin also pointed out some ways in which CP addresses the needs of persons with ASD:

When a child is diagnosed with autism, learning more can support doing more, which is why developing an individualized plan of care for each child is so important. 

At CP, Autism services can take on many forms including specialized physical, occupational and speech-language therapy. Strategies can include sign language, working on appropriate responses through activities like swinging, playing in a ball pit and sliding and working on transitions from one setting to another with soothing techniques. 

We also encourage parents to get involved from the start, even participating in therapy sessions with their child. Parents are the primary caregiver, support network and teacher, so their involvement in their child’s care plan is essential. When parents are involved during therapy sessions, they learn different activities and techniques that can be carried over and practiced in a home setting. Because of their involvement, parents also find they are better equipped to answer questions and educate family and friends on their child’s condition. 

To learn more about CP’s Therapy Services, Please Visit https://www.wearecp.org/we-can-help/therapy-services/

For more information on Autism and Autism Awareness, Please Click Here