1. Autism
Autism is a complex developmental disability that typically appears during the first three years of life.

2. Autism and its associated behaviors have been estimated to occur in as few as 2 in 1,000 individuals to as many as 6 in 1,000, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

3. Autism is four times more prevalent in boys than it is in girls and knows no racial, ethnic or social boundaries. Family income, lifestyle and educational levels do not affect the chance of getting autism.
Source: Autism Society of America

4. Autism impacts the normal development of the brain in the areas of social interaction and communication skills
Children and adults with autism typically have difficulties in verbal and nonverbal communication and leisure or play activities.

5. In some cases, aggressive and/or self-injuring behavior may occur.
People with autism may exhibit repeated body movements (hand flapping, rocking), unusual responses to people or attachments to objects, and resistance to change in routine.
Some may also experience extreme sensitivity to sight, hearing, touch, smell or taste.

6. Communication concerns: Does not respond to his/her name
Red flags for autism
Communication concerns:
Does not respond to his/her name
Cannot express needs
Language is delayed
Doesn't follow directions
Appears deaf at times
Doesn't point or wave goodbye

7. Social concerns:
Doesn't smile socially
Seems to prefer to play alone
Gets things for himself
Is very independent
Does things early
Has poor eye contact
Is in his own world
Is not interested in other children

8. Behavioral concerns: Tantrums Is hyperactive / uncooperative or oppositional Doesn't know how to play with toys Gets stuck on things over and over Toe walks Has unusual attachments to toys (e.g., always holding a certain object) Lines things up Is oversensitive to certain textures or sounds Has odd movement patterns

9. Absolute indications for immediate further evaluation:
No babbling by 12 months
No gesturing (pointing, waving goodbye, etc.) by 12 months
No single words by 16 months
No two-word, spontaneous phrases by 24 months
Any loss of language or social skills at any age

10. To learn more
Autism Society of America: (301) or (800) 3AUTISM
Cure Autism Now: (888) 8AUTISM
The Regional Center of Orange County: (714)
Call for list of support groups:
Orange County Autism Society:
For OC Kids: (888) 9-0CKIDS or (714)