DEALING WITH AUTISM By Brittany Murphy and Charlotte

DEALING WITH AUTISM By Brittany Murphy and Charlotte Rosenberg

Who has had an experience dealing with someone with autism?

WHAT IS AUTISM? Autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by impaired social interaction, communication, and behaviors. Most children show symptoms and are diagnosed around the age of two or three Autism is a spectrum disorder, meaning that there are those who show no symptoms, show a lot of symptoms, are brilliant (Asperger’s Syndrome), and those with an IQ of 70 or lower

OUR EXPERIENCE WITH AUTISM Charlotte grew up with two best friends with Autism Charlotte often works with and is in charge of children with Autism during the summer when she lifeguards for a ocean biology camp Brittany’s mom is a behavioral analyst and works with children with Autism Brittany has autistic family members

CHARACTERISTICS ASSOCIATED WITH AUTISM

CHARACTERISTICS ASSOCIATED WITH AUTISM CONT. Behavior: repetitive movements, irritability, persistent repetition, aggression, hyperactivity, compulsive behavior, poor eye contact, screaming, crying Speech: stuttering, abnormal tone of voice, speech impairment, or speech loss Developmental: speech and learning delay Other: lack of empathy, constantly walking on tip toe, or sensitivity to sound, high interest in a few subjects

THE FACTS Autism now affects 1 in 68 children and 1 in 42 boys Autism prevalence figures are growing Autism is the fastest-growing serious developmental disability in the U. S (Grew about 119% from 2000 to 2011) Autism costs a family $60, 000 a year on average Boys are four times more likely than girls to have autism There is no medical detection or cure for autism

HOW DO YOU DEAL WITH A FAMILY MEMBER WITH AUTISM? DO DO have patience NOT be embarrassed by their actions get advice from experts and other sources be a protective sibling or family member NOT ignore them explore their interests NOT tease, yell, or get frustrated with them help them learn social norms and how to behave in public

HOW DO YOU DEAL WITH A FRIEND WITH AUTISM? DO spend a lot of time with them DO introduce them to your other friends DO activities that interest them DO NOT make them feel left out DO NOT peer pressure them or make them do things that make them uncomfortable DO know their strengths and weaknesses DO be a protective friend DO help them learn appropriate behaviors

HOW DO YOU DEAL WITH A STRANGER WITH AUTISM? DO be kind and courteous DO NOT act uncomfortable or awkward DO realize that bringing someone out into the community with autism can be stressful DO NOT stare or make hurtful comments DO understand basic behaviors associated with autism DO NOT get mad or reprimand a stranger with autism DO realize it is okay to feel uncomfortable and/or leave the situation, but do so politely

WHAT DOES OUR SERVICE LEARNING GROUP DO? Our service learning group is called Solving the Puzzle We spread autism awareness through presentations, videos, and writing a short book We volunteer at events geared towards Autism and Asperger's We strive to make a difference in our Autism community Contact either Brittany (15 Murphy. B@sagehillschool. org) or Charlotte (16 Rosenberg. C@sagehillschool. org) if you would like to help or volunteer at an event with us. We would love your help!

VIDEO OF A GIRL WITH ASPERGER'S ON THE ELLEN SHOW http: //blog. theautismsite. com/macey-hensley-ellen-interview/