Autism is a lifelong developmental disability that affects communication and social interaction. It can be caused by genetic and environmental factors. Boys are four to five times more likely to be affected than girls. Early signs include lack of babbling, pointing or responding to name by age 2. Children with autism have difficulty interpreting others' thoughts and feelings and engaging socially. Teachers can help by using visual aids, concrete examples, picture exchange systems, and education plans for stressful situations.

1. Autism by: Jennifer Leutzinger

2. Autism Spectrum DisordersAutism is one of five disorders that fall under the spectrum of Pervasive Developmental Disorders (PDD).AutismAsperger SyndromeChild hood Disintegrative DisorderRett’s DisorderNon- specified PDDAll of these disorders vary in intensity. For this PowerPoint we will be focusing on Autism.Nielsen (2009)

3. The Definition of Autism Autism is a life long developmental disability. It is generally evident before the age of 3, affecting verbal and nonverbal communication and social interactions that affects a child's performance. Nielsen (2009)

4. Who Does Autism Effect?Autism occurs in all socioeconomic classes. Boys are affected four to five times more than girls. It is rarely found to affect more than one child in a family.

5. Causes of Autism Autism has no single, known cause. Leading investigators believe Autism to have many causes . The following are three probable causes. Genetic problems - A number of genes appear to be involved in autism.

6. Genes may make a child more susceptible to the disorder

7. Genes may affect brain development or the way brain cells communicate.

8. Genes may determine the severity of symptoms. Environmental factors - Many health problems are caused by environmental factors. viral infections may and air pollutants may role in triggering autism.

9. Inheritance Factors- Children may have a predisposition to Autism

10. Twin studies show that if one twin is affected by Autism, there is 90% chance the other will be to. Autism Research Institute (2010)

11. Characteristics of AutismThey fail to respond to their names and often avoid eye contact.They have difficulty interpreting what others are thinking and feeling.They lack empathyThey engage in repetitive movements such as rocking or twirling.They engage in self abusive behavior such as biting or head-banging. Autism (2010)