Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD)

ASD now includes autistic disorder, PDD-NOS, and Asperger syndrome. ASD is a developmental disorder that affects communication, social skills, and sensory abilities caused by differences in the brain. Children with ASD develop at different rates in different areas. They may have delays in language, social, and learning skills, while their ability to walk and move around are about the same as other children their age. They might be very good at putting puzzles together or solving computer problems, but they might have trouble with social activities like talking or making friends.

Our Speech, Occupational, and Physical therapists are “tailor made” to work with families and children with ASD as therapists hold specialized and advanced trainings in evidenced-based data driven methods proven to render the best outcomes.  Therapists work collaboratively adapting activities, shaping communication, improving motor skills, all awhile teaching children with ASD in a fun, creative learning environment to improve and generalize skills learned.

• Delayed speech and language skills (e.g. not talking) by 18 mos or 2 years of age
• Limited or no pointing to use “joint attention” (e.g. doesn’t point at objects to show interest (point at an airplane flying over) by 14 months
• Uses few or no gestures (e.g., does not wave goodbye)
• Have trouble understanding other people’s feelings or understanding jokes or sarcasm
• Repeat words heard (e.g. echolalia)
• Have obsessive interests (e.g. lines up toys or plays the same way)
• Seek sensory input (e.g. flap their hands, rock their body, or spin in circles)
• Have unusual reactions to the way things sound, smell, taste, look, or feel

• Prefers to play alone or has limited play (e.g. difficulty making friends)
• Difficulty or inconsistent to respond to name (e.g. difficulty shifting attention)
• Difficulty engaging in social games (e.g. peek a boo)
• Limited shared interests with others (e.g. reading books together or singing songs)
• Fleeting moments of social interactions (e.g. difficult to keep attention)
• Can be difficulty to comfort when upset
• Has trouble understanding other people’s feelings or talking about own feelings

• The Arc – Autism Now
• National Autism Resources
• Autism Speaks – Understanding Asperger’s
• Autism Society
• Autism Resources for Families
• Sesame Street Autism Resources for Parents
• Creating a Home Where Your Child Can Thrive with a Disability
• Moving with Special Needs Kids
• Temple Grandin’s Teaching Tips