{"id":12829,"date":"2016-12-12T18:56:14","date_gmt":"2016-12-12T23:56:14","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/www.backtobasicslearning.com\/?p=12829"},"modified":"2020-10-08T09:21:24","modified_gmt":"2020-10-08T13:21:24","slug":"when-to-get-kids-tested-and-what-does-an-autism-diagnosis-mean","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/backtobasicslearning.com\/when-to-get-kids-tested-and-what-does-an-autism-diagnosis-mean\/","title":{"rendered":"When to get kids tested… and what does an Autism diagnosis mean?"},"content":{"rendered":"

\"autism-diagnosis\"<\/a>Autism or Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a set of complex \u2014 and frequently misunderstood \u2014 disorders of brain development. According to a recently published article by Emily Willingham in Scientific American<\/i><\/a>, \u201cThese disorders are characterized, in varying degrees, by difficulties in social interaction, verbal and nonverbal communication and repetitive behaviors.\u201d<\/p>\n

For parents, understanding the Autism Spectrum is often confusing, in part due to changing definitions and popular misconceptions. \u00a0For example, in May 2013, the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) merged all autism disorders into one diagnosis of ASD and eliminated all subcategories \u2013 from Asperger Syndrome, to Childhood Disintegrative Disorder, to Autistic Disorder.<\/p>\n

Why does my child need Autism testing?<\/strong><\/p>\n

Autism is one of the fastest-growing developmental disorders in the U.S. Ten years ago, Autism\u2019s estimated prevalence was 1 in 166. Today it\u2019s 1 in 68 \u2013 an increase of more than 100% in one decade.<\/p>\n

Making the decision to have a child evaluated may be difficult. Parents can struggle with fear, worry, and even shame. However, a persistent feeling that \u201csomething is off\u201d is an indicator that testing is necessary.<\/p>\n

According to Autism Speaks, “Often parents are the first to notice that their child is showing unusual behaviors such as failing to make eye contact, not responding to his or her name or playing with toys in unusual, repetitive ways.”<\/p>\n

What are the symptoms of Austism or ASD?<\/b><\/p>\n

ASD symptoms include\u00a0intellectual disability, difficulties in motor coordination and attention, and physical health issues such as sleep and gastrointestinal disturbances. Some people with ASD excel in visual skills, music, math and art.<\/p>\n

It’s important to note that ASD is a spectrum<\/em>, each child is unique, and not all exhibit \u201cclassic\u201d symptoms, which is why diagnosis is crucial.\u00a0One third of children (and adults) with autism are nonverbal.<\/p>\n

Autism Speaks, \u201cAutism can be reliably diagnosed by age two\u2026earlier intervention improves outcomes.\u00a0Early intervention can change underlying brain development and activity. It\u2019s also cost-effective, as it reduces the need for educational and behavioral support in grade school and beyond.\u201d<\/p>\n

For\u00a0early indicators of autism, see Learn the Signs<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n

What is the evaluation process?\u00a0How Is Autism or ASD diagnosed?<\/strong><\/p>\n

A specialist looks for a pattern of strengths and weaknesses that emerge across the span of several tests. And, the good news is, that once an evaluation is completed, a report will yield crucial, detailed information about the child\u2019s strengths, weaknesses, and neurological development.<\/p>\n

After the evaluation, what\u2019s the next step?<\/strong><\/p>\n

After the evaluations, recommendations will be made to parents and educators regarding the best teaching methods and educational environment for the student to reach his or her full potential.<\/p>\n

The resulting formal report can be used to:<\/p>\n