What to Know about Autism during Autism Acceptance Month

April is Autism Awareness and Acceptance Month. Your pediatrician is an important resource for your child's health and can help with the diagnosis and management of Autism spectrum disorder. "Autism is a complex neurodevelopmental condition. While it varies widely in how it affects children, autistic kids often have differences in how they communicate, play and behave. Because most children on the autism spectrum will sit, crawl and walk on time, you may not notice early delays in social and communication skills." (American Academy of Pediatrics).

Children on the autism spectrum and their families can be healthy & resilient. The following is from The Autism Society of America, "Autism Acceptance Month recognizes that Autism is more than a diagnosis—it is identity, community, and a lived experience that encompasses both challenges and triumphs. The Autism experience is different for everyone. It is defined by a certain set of behaviors and is often referred to as a “spectrum condition” that affects people differently and to varying degrees. While there is currently no known single cause of Autism, early diagnosis helps a person receive resources that can support the choices and opportunities needed to live fully."

For more reliable, factual information about Autism, visit healthychildren.org, "Understanding Autism: Information for Families." Autistic children are valued members of our communities and deserve more high-quality research and resources to support their development.

If you have questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to Kids First Pediatrics: Raleigh, (919) 250- 3478 or Clayton, (919) 267-1499. 

*This article is informational and is not a substitute for medical attention or information from your provider.