What Is Autism?
Autism is a developmental disability that remains with a person for his or her whole life. This condition affects the brain’s functions. The first signs usually appear before a child is three years old. People with autism often:
- Find social interaction difficult.
- Have problems with verbal and non-verbal communication.
- Demonstrate restrictive and repetitive behaviour.
- Have a limited set of interests and activities.
Autism affects girls and boys of all races and in all geographic regions and has a large impact on children, their families, communities, and societies. The prevalence is currently rising in many countries around the world. Caring for and educating children and young people with this condition places challenges on health care, education and training programs.
Want to know more about autism?
Books To Read
The Reason I Jump – Naoki Higashida and David Mitchell
Some of the most basic questions are answered in a kind of FAQ style, and it deals with topics like eye contact and meltdowns. It is a unique book, and one that proves you just need to be listening.
Uniquely Human – Barry M Prizant
Autism is usually portrayed as a checklist of deficits, including difficulties interacting socially, problems in communicating, sensory challenges, and repetitive behavior patterns
While never discounting the difficulties of living with autism, “Uniquely Human” offers inspiring stories, and practical advice drawn from Dr. Prizant’s four-decade career working in universities, schools, hospitals, and in private practice. It conveys a deep respect for people with autism and the qualities that make them special. Filled with humanity and wisdom, “Uniquely Human” offers a compassionate and insightful perspective that parents, professionals, and family members will find uplifting and hopeful.
Courses to take
Understanding Autism – Free Online Autistic Course – FutureLearn
Autism Awareness Training Course | Online Certification (highspeedtraining.co.uk)
Cost £30 + VAT
Websites to Visit
What is autism? – NHS (www.nhs.uk)
Sport – a guide for sports coaches and clubs (autism.org.uk)
Autism-sport-physical-activity.pdf (thirdlight.com)
