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Autism is a spectrum disorder which means that whilst individuals will all have difficulties in the following three areas; the degree to which they are affected can vary enormously. |
Language Development |
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Social Skills |
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Behavioural Reportoire |
| Abnormal language development in children with an autistic spectrum disorder can manifest itself in several different ways. |
Children with an autistic spectrum disorder often show no interest in their peers or siblings. A child may have poor eye contact and lack 'pretend' play. They may not respond to others who speak to them, including parents, and often don't point at or show things to others. They often appear to be in a world of their own. |
Those affected by an autistic spectrum disorder often have very stereotypical behaviour. Many like routine and can find changes difficult to cope with. Some children may play repetitively with the same objects in a very specific way; or they may insist that tasks are done in the same way, for example, journeys taken on exactly the same route. Children on the autistic spectrum often show self-absorption, for example, closely examining their fingers or hand flapping; these types of repetitive behaviours are referred to as 'self stimulatory behaviours'. |
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For more information, try these links:Toys and Reinforcers Educational Resources Wisconsin Early Autism Project (WEAP): www.wiautism.com |
