What is Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

Childcare providers have the unique ability to observe a child’s behavior, or changes in a child’s behavior, that can indicate he has autism. To understand more, we first need to take a look at what autism is.

Autism is a spectrum disorder (ASD), meaning there is a whole range of intensity symptoms and behaviors. One size does not fit all! What this means is if you have a child in your class who is identified with ASD this year, and then next year you get another child identified with ASD… there may be very few similarities between the two children!

Every child with autism sees and interacts with the world differently. Symptoms between different children on the spectrum can range from non-verbal and asocial – referred to as “classic” autism- to quirky social skills and play. For some, their senses are over-stimulated and for some, they are under-stimulated.

Children with autism have difficulty making authentic friendships and expressing their thoughts and feelings. They have limits on what they are able to do and what they are interested in doing. They may be very sensitive to a variety of things and they may have difficulties with speech.

Taking the time to learn more about how a brain with autism works can help you learn how to guide each child in your class in a more effective manner.

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