Team Select is eager to shed light on the significance of World Autism Awareness Month. This month serves as a platform to educate, inform, and advocate for individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and their families. As a company deeply committed to providing quality care, we believe it’s critical to spread and enhance understanding and awareness surrounding autism.
“Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a developmental disability caused by differences in the brain. People with ASD often have problems with social communication and interaction, and restricted or repetitive behaviors or interests. People with ASD may also have different ways of learning, moving, or paying attention. It is important to note that some people without ASD might also have some of these symptoms. But for people with ASD, these characteristics can make life very challenging.” – Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Understanding this diversity within the autism community is vital to providing adequate support and fostering inclusivity.
Research has shown that early detection and intervention can significantly improve outcomes for individuals with autism spectrum disorder. By recognizing early signs, such as delayed speech development, social difficulties, or repetitive behaviors, parents and caregivers can seek timely support and access intervention services that promote skill development and independence.
Signs of autism in children may include:
- Not responding to their name
- Showing limited or no emotions
- Avoiding eye contact
- Repeating the same words and phrases or behaviors
- Finding it difficult to say how they feel
- Stimming (repetitive body movements or noises)
Understanding sensory sensitivities is another crucial aspect of supporting individuals with autism. Many individuals with autism experience sensory sensitivities, which can manifest as heightened sensitivity to noise, lights, textures, or smells. Creating sensory-friendly environments that minimize sensory overload and provide sensory accommodations can greatly enhance the well-being and comfort of individuals with autism.
Many families explore Sensory Integration Therapy, which can be a big help and make a different in the life of their loved one.
According to a Healthline article, “Sensory integration therapy is essentially a form of occupational therapy for children, and it is generally offered by specially trained occupational therapists. It involves specific sensory activities to adjust a child to light, sound, touch, smells, and other input. Interventions may include swinging, brushing, playing in a ball pit, and many other sensory-related activities. The outcome of these activities may be better focus, improved behavior, and even lowered anxiety.”
