Autism

autism spectrum disorder (ASD)

broad range of conditions characterized by challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviors, speech and nonverbal communication. 1 in 36 kids in US have it

mchat

screening tool for autism

how many people with autism are nonverbal

40%

how many children with autism also have an intellectual disability

31%

safety concerns for kids with autism

half wander or bolt from safety, 2/3 are bullied, 28% of 8 year old’s have self-injurious behaviors, drowning is leading cause of death for children with autism (90% of deaths are associated with wandering)

comorbid conditions with autism

epilepsy, GI disorders, disrupted sleep, feeding/eating issues, mental health disorders (anxiety, depression, schizophrenia), ADHD, overweight or obese

people with autism may have sensitivities

sights, sounds, tastes, touch, balance, proprioception, interoception (may have hypersensitivity or hyposensitivity to certain senses)

vestibular sensation

balance

proprioception

awareness of body position and movement

interoception

awareness of internal body cues and sensations

sensory avoidance

hypersensitive to certain inputs. they may experience sensory input more intensely than the average person, and they avoid it because its overwhelming (ex: picky eater, not like being hugged, startled by loud sounds or bright lights, avoid crowds, etc.)

sensory seeking

hyposensitive to certain inputs. they look for more sensory stimulation. may be perceived as clumsy, too loud, or seem to have behavior issues (ex: stand too close when talking to others, walk with loud steps, touch people often, make loud noises, chew on shirt sleeves, etc.)