What Is Autism?????

       Autism is a disorder of neural development characterized by impaired social interaction and communication and by repetitive behavior. These signs all begin before a child is three years old. Autism affects information processing in the brain by altering how nerve cells and their synapses connect and organize.

   Parents usually notice signs in the first two years of their child's life. The signs usually develop gradually, but some autistic children first develop more normally and then regress. Although, early behavioral or cognitive intervention can help autistic children gain self-care, social and communication skills, there is no known cure for autism. Not many children with autism live independently after reaching adulthood but there are some who becomes successful.

      Denise Daniels was told that her autistic child will never be able to hold a job, earn a living, or even live on his own or have a family. How sad is that?  As a parent, Denise refused to believe that her son would never be able to succeed in school or even become successful, so she pushed forward and got her son the best education he needed. She says, "The son that was told he would never focus in a classroom, graduated from high school with honors and attend community college until he decided that he wanted a job." Wow can you a imagine and autistic kid being so successful? Overall, there is no limit to how successful a disabled child can be.

Videos on  successful and independent autistic people:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0z1-MWb2hFQ
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0z1-MWb2hFQ

Autistic children have special sides to them, but there are somethings that autistic people are good at and they have a creative way of living and becoming successful.


Questions to think about:

1.Can you imagine what it's like to be autistic?
2. Do you think you as an individual would succeed being autistic?
3. Besides the rumors of autism, what do you think is the cause?
4. Can Autism be cured?