Autism (Autism Spectrum Disorder)
Autism, also called Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), affects communication and social skills. Individuals with autism may also engage in repetitive behaviors or have specific, limited interests. Speech-language Therapists (SLTs) can assist in improving these skills.
Overview of Autism
People with autism may have difficulties with communication and social interactions. They often struggle with holding conversations or may not notice social cues. Some individuals with autism may be non-verbal, while others have no trouble speaking but still face challenges in forming and maintaining relationships, whether at school, work, or in personal life.
Those with autism typically exhibit restricted interests or repetitive behaviors. This could involve a deep focus on a specific subject, like cars or a TV show, or attachment to a particular object or routine. They may also resist changes to their schedules or the way they do things.
While medical professionals refer to autism as a disorder, many people view it as part of neurodiversity, a natural variation in how brains function. Respecting the preferences of individuals with autism and their families regarding care and support is essential.
It's also important to note that different individuals prefer different terms. Some like to be called "a person with autism," while others prefer "autistic person" or simply "autistic." It's best to ask how they would like to be referred to.
Autism lasts throughout a person's life, and its exact cause is unknown. In some cases, autism runs in families. Potential factors include genetic differences, variations in brain development or function, and environmental exposure to certain substances.
Autism can vary in its severity, ranging from mild to severe, based on how much the challenges impact daily life.
Schedule an appointment with one of our Speech Language Therapists today to discover how we can help you.
Signs and Symptoms of Autism
Autism signs can often be observed in early childhood, although sometimes they are subtle and not recognized until later, even in school-age children or adults.
While these signs can evolve as a person ages, difficulties with communication, social skills, and certain behaviors tend to persist.
Communication
Communication includes speaking, understanding, reading, and writing. People with autism may have difficulties with:
- Understanding or using gestures like waving or pointing
- Understanding and using spoken language
- Following instructions
- Learning to read or write—some may read early but struggle with comprehension (known as hyperlexia)
- Holding conversations
They might:
- Lose early words
- Speak in a way that is difficult to understand
- Repeat words or phrases recently heard (echolalia)
- Use a robotic or singsong tone
- Speak very little or not at all
- Use challenging behaviors instead of words to express themselves
Social Skills
Social interactions may be difficult, and individuals with autism might seem uninterested in others or in forming friendships. Challenges may include:
- Sharing attention or focusing on the same object or event with someone
- Participating in group play and sharing toys
- Responding to social invitations
- Understanding other people’s feelings
- Taking turns in conversation or play
- Building and maintaining friendships
Behaviors
Some common behavioral patterns include:
- Repetitive behaviors, such as hand movements or body motions
- Unexpected emotional responses like crying, laughing, or anger
- Difficulty transitioning between activities
- Sensitivity to specific sounds, smells, or textures
- Limited interest in foods, often based on appearance or texture
- A strong focus on a few objects or topics
If your child is suffering from any of these conditions, do not hesitate to
contact Perfect Balance Speech & Language Therapy for help.
Consulting a Professional
Testing for Autism
Autism evaluations are typically conducted by a multidisciplinary team, which may include medical doctors, neurologists, developmental psychologists, and SLTs. Family members are an essential part of the process. Additionally, an audiologist may assess the person’s hearing to rule out hearing loss.
SLTs evaluate communication and social skills. They may speak with others to understand how the individual communicates at home, school, or work. Some individuals with autism may speak very little or not at all, so the SLT might assess the need for augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) methods, such as sign language, pictures, or communication devices.
While social communication issues are common in people with autism, not everyone with such challenges has autism. SLTs help differentiate between autism and other communication disorders, such as social (pragmatic) communication disorder.
Treatments for Autism
Early intervention is critical for young children with autism. Local early intervention programs or specialized preschools can provide essential support. Adolescents and adults with autism also benefit from treatment to enhance their communication skills for school, work, and social settings.
Throughout life, individuals with autism may work with a range of specialists, including audiologists, SLTs, psychologists, educators, and vocational counselors.
SLTs play a key role in autism treatment, helping individuals develop communication and social skills in various settings, such as home, school, or the workplace. For those who need it,
SLTs can introduce AAC tools. Therapy may occur individually or in groups, providing opportunities to practice social skills with others.
Depending on a person’s needs, SLTs might focus on:
- Interacting with others in different environments
- Using a variety of communication methods
- Turn-taking in conversations
- Transitioning between tasks
- Accepting changes and broadening interests, including trying new foods or activities
- Improving reading and writing skills
SLTs also teach families and caregivers how to help their child learn communication skills by:
- Talking about what they or the child is doing
- Expanding on the child’s words
- Offering just enough help to encourage independence
- Using sensory supports during play
For autistic individuals entering the workforce, SLTs can assist with:
- Writing cover letters
- Preparing for interviews
- Learning communication strategies for the workplace
- Advocating for workplace accommodations
SLTs also help individuals express their preferred terminology and advocate for themselves.
Request an appointment to improve speech and communication skills.
Our Speech Therapy center in Abu Dhabi can help enhance language abilities, articulation,
and
social communication, empowering you to communicate confidently and effectively!
Schedule a consultation with Perfect Balance Speech & Language Therapy today, and
take the first step on your child’s journey to better communication!
- Request an Appointment
- Receive A Custom Treatment Plan
- A joint effort to make progress
- Work towards easier communication
Unlock your child’s path to Confident and Clear Communication!
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