Autism is a developmental disorder that appears in early childhood and affects social and communication skills. Boys are affected more than girls. While the causes are unknown, early signs may include lack of speech, repetitive movements, lack of eye contact and social skills. Treatment options include applied behavior analysis therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy and sometimes medications to treat related symptoms. Diet changes eliminating gluten have helped some children with autism.

1. Autism is a developmental disorder that appears in the first 3 years of life, and affects the brain's normal development of social and communication skills. By: Brittany Allen

2. Early signs of Autism Delayed or lack of speech.

3. Repetitive movement of body such as Arms, and head.

4. Impaired social skills.

5. Interest in activities or play.

6. Seldom eye contact with others.

7. Children and Autism Autism effects boys 3-4 times more then girls.

8. Family income, education, and lifestyle don't seem to effect the risk of autism.

9. Exact number of children living with autism is not known.

10. Related Developmental Disorder Asperger Syndrome (similar to autism but with normal language development).

11. Rett Syndrome(Very different from autism, and only occurs in females).

12. Childhood Disintegrative Disorder (Rare condition where a child learns skills, then looses them by age 10).

13. Pervasive Developmental Disorder (Also called typical autism).

14. Symptoms Children with difficulties usually have trouble with:

15. Pretend play.

16. Social interactions

17. Verbal and non-verbal communication.