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Understanding autism: breaking myths and building awareness

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Autism, also known as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), is a disorder or a neurodevelopmental condition that affects how people develop and behave. As the name ‘spectrum’ suggests, autism borders a broad range of traits, behaviours and abilities making each person’s experience with autism unique. Even though more people are becoming aware of autism, there are still some misunderstandings about it, leading to criticism, and limited support for individuals with autism. Autism is a spectrum The fact that autism is a spectrum is the most important idea to understand when talking about it. This means that individuals with autism each have a different experience with the disorder. There is not one ‘Autistic experience’ and the spectrum includes those who are highly verbal and self-sufficient as well as those who might struggle with communication. People with autism may share some common traits, such as difficulties with social communication, a preferance for regularity and repetitive behaviour...
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Supporting Individuals with autism: Management Strategies

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Therapy and Intervention Therapeutic interventions are important in managing autism, starting early and with consistent therapy can significantly improve communication, social skills and behaviour in people with autism.   Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) ‘Applied behaviour analysis’ (ABA) is a strong approach that uses rewards to promote good behaviour and discourage harmful actions. Key components of ABA include: Early Intensive Behavioural Intervention (EIBI): Targets young children to accelerate their growth and improvement through intensive therapy. Discrete Trial Training (DTT): Which thoroughly teaches skills through repetition and positive reinforcement Pivotal Response Treatment (PRT): a flexible approach that focuses on important areas such as motivation and social interaction Speech and Language Therapy:   Is essential for individuals with communicating problems. By using methods like ‘Picture Exchange Communication System’ (PECS) , non-verbal individuals can commu...
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Recognising Autism

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Recognising autism at an early stage can significantly help a child’s growth and give them the support they need. Autism or autistic spectrum disorder (ASD), is a neurodevelopmental condition that refers to the condition that affects someone’s ability to think and interact with others, and can also change how they process certain information. Autism spectrum disorder does not only have one type, but many. Some autistic people have the ability to speak while others are non-verbal or minimally verbal and communicate in other ways (e.g. sign language, facial expressions). Many people with autism generally experience other medical, behavioural or mental health issues that accompany autism, such as seizures, chronic GI issues, and sleep and eating issues.  Signs and symptoms of Autism: Common symptoms of autism in  children  include: Not responding to their names Having trouble interacting with others Starting conversations Sharing emotions Understanding what others are feelin...
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