1. Autism By Pedro Islas, Elisa Reyes and Ivan Zambrano

2. What is ASD/PDD? Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Pervasive Developmental Disorder (PDD)are labels used interchangeably as general terms for a group of complex disorders of brain development. These disorders are characterized, in varying degrees, by difficulties in social interaction, verbal and nonverbal communication and repetitive behaviors. (1)(7) PDD/ASD include autistic disorder, childhood disintegrative disorder, pervasive developmental disorder-not otherwise specified (PDD-NOS), Rett syndrome, and Asperger syndrome (1)(7)

3. Quick Facts U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) identify around 1 in 68 American children as on the autism spectrum–a ten-fold increase in prevalence in 40 years. (2) ASD is almost 5 times more common among boys (1 in 42) than among girls (1 in 189) (2) Many of those on the autism spectrum have exceptional abilities in visual skills, music and academic skills (1) About 40 percent have intellectual disability (IQ less than 70), and many have normal to above average intelligence. (1) There is no known cure for ASD (4) Only 56% of students with Autism finish high school (3)

4. What Might ASD Feel like?

5. Autistic Disorder Autism is a developmental disability affecting verbal and non- verbal communication and social interaction, that affects a child’s performance Autistic-like characteristics: Autism is generally evident before the age of 3 The intellect of children with Autistic Disorder is generally well below their neuro-typical peers. 70% of children with autism are mentally retarded. (7) Difficulty relating to people and objects Using items in unconventional ways Lack of interaction with peers Avoiding eye contact Inability to accept affection Dislike being touched Compulsive/ritualistic behaviors Self-injurious behavior Tantrums Violent behavior towards others Preoccupation with hands

6. Asperger’s Syndrome Asperger’s Syndrome (AS) encompasses the lack of general interest, use of nonverbal behavior, and impaired social interactions and activities (7) Researchers are not certain is AS is just a milder form of autism or is linked to autism by the similarities between the two disorders. (7) Some experts believe AS is a “high functioning autism” and/or that is like a non-verbal learning disability (8) Of the disorders within ASD, AS is characterized by higher cognitive abilities ranging from average to superior intelligence (7)

7. What Causes ASD? The exact cause of ASD is unknown (7) Most cases of autism appear to be caused by a combination of autism risk genes and environmental factors influencing early brain development. Genetic Factors: Research has identified more than 100 genes or gene changes (mutations) that increase the risk that a child will develop autism. (1) Increased risk for twins/siblings (8) Environmental Factors: Advanced parental age at the time of conception Maternal illness during pregnancy Difficulties during birthing, particularly those involving periods of oxygen deprivation to the baby’s brain It is important to keep in mind that these factors, by themselves, do not cause autism. Rather, in combination with genetic risk factors, they appear to modestly increase risk. (1)

8. Early Signs of ASD Lack of or delay in spoken language Repetitive use of language and/or motor mannerisms (e.g., hand-flapping, twirling objects) Little or no eye contact Lack of interest in peer relationships Lack of spontaneous or make-believe play Persistent fixation on parts of objects (5)

9. Well-Known People with ASD Daryl Hannah Albert Einstein (9)

10. Strategies for Educators Always keep your language simple and concrete. Get your point across in as few words as possible. Give fewer choices. If a child is asked to pick a color, say red, only give him two to three choices to pick from Repeat instructions and checking understanding. Using short sentences to ensure clarity of instructions. Provide a very clear structure and a set daily routine including free time. Provide warning of any impending change of routine, or switch of activity. (6)

11. Local Resources for Teachers/Parents Behavioral Health Works Treatment for Autism and Related Disorders Address: 1301 E Orangewood Ave, Anaheim, CA 92805 Phone Number: (800) 249-1266 Autism Speaks Regional Center of Orange County North Area Office Address: 3111 North Tustin St. Ste 150, Orange, CA 92865 Phone Number: (714) 796-3700 Local School District: Anaheim City School District, Buena Park School District, Tustin Unified School District, etc…

12. Reference 1)Autism Speaks. What is Autism? https://www.autismspeaks.org/what-autism 2)Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Autism Spectrum Disorder: Data & Statistics. http://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/autism/data.html 3)Wagner. M., et al. An Overview of Findings from Wave 2 of the National Transition Study, SRI International, Menlo Park, CA. 4)Autism Society. Living with Autism: Treatment Options. http://www.autism- society.org/living-with-autism/treatment-options/ 5)Autism Society. About Autism. http://www.autism-society.org/what-is/ 6)Hensley, Pat. 22 Tips for Teaching Students with Autism Spectrum Disorders. Teaching Community. http://teaching.monster.com/benefits/articles/8761-22- tips-for-teaching-students-with-autism-spectrum-disorders 7)Desheler, D. and Schumaker, J. (2006). Teaching Adolescents With Disabilities:: Accessing the General Education Curriculum. SAGE Publications. 8)Chung, W. Autism: What We Know (And What We Don’t Know Yet). Ted Talks. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wKlMcLTqRLs 9)Shumaker, D. 11 Famous People with Autism. Babble. http://www.babble.com/entertainment/famous-people-with-autism- 2/#famous-people-with-autism