, |
Facebook "Like" & Group Page |
.
|
Connect With Other Families With Children Diagnosed With Autism Below In The No Different Than You Chat Room
|
Autism and the brain
Graphic shows areas of the brain affected by autism, which stems from abnormal brain development; new U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates say 1 in 88 U.S. children has autism spectrum disorder.
|
|
What Does Autism Mean?
People usually call it autism (say: aw-tih-zum), but the official name is autism spectrum disorders. Why? Because doctors include autism in a group of problems that kids can have, including Asperger syndrome and others. These problems happen when the brain develops differently and has trouble with an important job: making sense of the world. Every day, our brains interpret (understand) the things we see, smell, hear, taste, touch, and experience. But when someone's brain has trouble interpreting these things, it can make it hard to talk, listen, understand, play, and learn.
A kid's symptoms could be very mild, severe, or somewhere in the middle. For example, some kids might be upset by too many noises or sounds that are too loud. Kids who have milder symptoms don't mind loud noises so much. Someone with mild symptoms might need only a little bit of help. But a kid with severe symptoms might need a lot of help with learning and doing everyday stuff. Kids with autism often can't make connections that other kids make easily. For example, when people smile, you know they feel happy or friendly; when people look mad, you can tell by their face or their voice. But many kids who have autism spectrum disorders have trouble understanding what emotions look like and what another person is thinking. They might act in a way that seems unusual, and it can be hard to understand why they're doing it.
Some issues — like not wanting to try new foods or not wanting anyone to move your toys — affect lots of kids, not just those who have an autism spectrum disorder. But kids with these disorders have more trouble "growing out of it" and learning to handle stuff that's challenging and annoying.
A kid's symptoms could be very mild, severe, or somewhere in the middle. For example, some kids might be upset by too many noises or sounds that are too loud. Kids who have milder symptoms don't mind loud noises so much. Someone with mild symptoms might need only a little bit of help. But a kid with severe symptoms might need a lot of help with learning and doing everyday stuff. Kids with autism often can't make connections that other kids make easily. For example, when people smile, you know they feel happy or friendly; when people look mad, you can tell by their face or their voice. But many kids who have autism spectrum disorders have trouble understanding what emotions look like and what another person is thinking. They might act in a way that seems unusual, and it can be hard to understand why they're doing it.
A kid with an autism spectrum disorder might:
- have trouble learning the meaning of words
- do the same thing over and over, like saying the same word
- move his or her arms or body in a certain way
- have trouble adjusting to changes (like trying new foods, having a substitute teacher, or having toys moved from their usual places)
Some issues — like not wanting to try new foods or not wanting anyone to move your toys — affect lots of kids, not just those who have an autism spectrum disorder. But kids with these disorders have more trouble "growing out of it" and learning to handle stuff that's challenging and annoying.
|
What Causes Autism?
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 1 in 88 kids has an autism spectrum disorder, but no one knows what causes them. Scientists think that there's a connection to genetics (something to do with a kid's genes) and the environment. Some kids might be more likely to get autism because it runs in their families. Other kids get it even if nobody in their family has these types of problems.
Knowing the exact cause of autism is hard because the human brain is very complicated. The brain contains more than 100 billion nerve cells called neurons. Each neuron may have hundreds or thousands of connections that carry messages to other nerve cells in the brain and body. The connections and the chemical messengers they send (called neurotransmitters) keep the neurons working as they should. When they do, you can see, feel, move, remember, experience emotions, communicate, and do lots of other important stuff.
In the brain of a kid with autism, some of those cells and connections don't develop normally or don't get organized like they're supposed to. Scientists are still trying to understand how and why this happens.
Knowing the exact cause of autism is hard because the human brain is very complicated. The brain contains more than 100 billion nerve cells called neurons. Each neuron may have hundreds or thousands of connections that carry messages to other nerve cells in the brain and body. The connections and the chemical messengers they send (called neurotransmitters) keep the neurons working as they should. When they do, you can see, feel, move, remember, experience emotions, communicate, and do lots of other important stuff.
In the brain of a kid with autism, some of those cells and connections don't develop normally or don't get organized like they're supposed to. Scientists are still trying to understand how and why this happens.
Getting Help for Autism
The earlier a child starts getting help, the better. But figuring out if a kid has an autism spectrum disorder can be difficult at the beginning. A parent is usually the first to think that something could be wrong. Maybe the child is old enough to speak but doesn't. Or a kid doesn't seem interested in people, has a hard time playing with others, or acts in unusual ways.
Often, specialists work together as a team to figure out if there is a problem. In addition to the doctor, the team might include a psychologist, speech therapist, occupational therapist, and teacher.
There is no cure for autism, but doctors, therapists, and special education teachers can help kids learn to communicate better. A kid might learn sign language or get a message across by pointing at pictures. The care team also can help improve a kid's social skills, stuff like taking turns and playing in a group.
Some kids who have mild symptoms will graduate high school and may go to college and live on their own. Many will always need some kind of help. But all will have brighter futures when they have the support and understanding of their families, doctors, teachers, therapists, and friends. So be sure to be a friend!
Often, specialists work together as a team to figure out if there is a problem. In addition to the doctor, the team might include a psychologist, speech therapist, occupational therapist, and teacher.
There is no cure for autism, but doctors, therapists, and special education teachers can help kids learn to communicate better. A kid might learn sign language or get a message across by pointing at pictures. The care team also can help improve a kid's social skills, stuff like taking turns and playing in a group.
Some kids who have mild symptoms will graduate high school and may go to college and live on their own. Many will always need some kind of help. But all will have brighter futures when they have the support and understanding of their families, doctors, teachers, therapists, and friends. So be sure to be a friend!
Jeremy Scott Zapata
Meet Jeremy Scott Zapata And His Family. Jeremy Is 22 Years Old And Living With Autism And Has Come Along Way. He Graduated From High School And Has Alot Of Love For Everybody. His Parents Are The Owner's Of Smokey Z's BBQ And They Will Be Catering Thuggizzle Cares Inc. And CoCo Bongo Presents "ALL PINK EVERYTHING BREAST CANCER AWARENESS PARTY" Featuring "THUGGIZZLE BIRTHDAY BASH"
|
|
Spencer
I am a mom of a four year old boy with autism named Spencer! He loves Toy Story and time with his friends at the Montessori Autism Program he attends in our hometown of Folsom, CA.
Spencer was diagnosed with Autism at the age of three, but presented with symptoms as early as eighteen months of age. At age three he was nonverbal. He was often frustrated and cried a great deal of the time. With a heavy heart I contacted our pediatrician to obtain a referral to Alta regional, California's social program which helps children with developmental disabilities. Through Alta, Spencer was evaluated.
After the evaluation, my suspensions that Spencer had autism were confirmed. I never felt so lost or alone. I feared that I may never have a close relationship with my son. I didn't know how to reach him and I felt so helpless.
It's been over a year now and with help from several special needs programs; I am happy to report Spencer is talking, making friends, and we have a wonderful relationship! Spencer is doing so well! We still struggle. Parenting a child with Autism is no easy task, but it feels twice as rewarding! I'm so proud of all Spencer's hard work and enjoy watching him grow. I have hope now and a love not only for my son but for all kids on the spectrum.
Spencer was diagnosed with Autism at the age of three, but presented with symptoms as early as eighteen months of age. At age three he was nonverbal. He was often frustrated and cried a great deal of the time. With a heavy heart I contacted our pediatrician to obtain a referral to Alta regional, California's social program which helps children with developmental disabilities. Through Alta, Spencer was evaluated.
After the evaluation, my suspensions that Spencer had autism were confirmed. I never felt so lost or alone. I feared that I may never have a close relationship with my son. I didn't know how to reach him and I felt so helpless.
It's been over a year now and with help from several special needs programs; I am happy to report Spencer is talking, making friends, and we have a wonderful relationship! Spencer is doing so well! We still struggle. Parenting a child with Autism is no easy task, but it feels twice as rewarding! I'm so proud of all Spencer's hard work and enjoy watching him grow. I have hope now and a love not only for my son but for all kids on the spectrum.
THE 9TH ANNUAL WALK FOR AUTISM APRIL 13, 2013
AT THE AT&T CENTER San Antonio, TX!
|
|
|
Rhayven's Story
By Rhayven
My name is Rhayven. I'm 20, and autistic. Granted, just speaking with me over the Internet, it wouldn't really be given away. It’s not a closely guarded secret or anything. Why should it be? It’s just that I can present myself easier over the web, and thus it’s not as noticeable. In person, or on the phone? Then, not so much.
A lot of people seem to think of it as a horrible thing. With the way it’s portrayed in the media, I guess I can understand why, but it doesn't have to be that way. I'm not by any means normal, but then again, what's normal in the first place? I don’t see autism as a curse. I don’t see myself as broken. And I do not want a cure. In some ways it’s a gift, and in others, it’s a real pain. I suppose it’s all depending on whose viewing? Some Autistics are great at math. Some have photographic memories, and can recall events in such detail, its baffling. Me? I'm a Poetess. It’s both my passion, and an outlet. It’s a gift. And it’s something I love. My thinking, and the pattern in which I see, or at least recognize, some things is a bit 'different.' But again, I don't much care. I am just a bit different and don't want to give it all up just because society doesn't like it.
To other young adults or teens with autism – it’s not a death sentence. It’s not the end of the world, and it’s by no means icky, or bad. Yeah, we may function differently. But it can be rewarding.
My name is Rhayven. I'm 20, and autistic. Granted, just speaking with me over the Internet, it wouldn't really be given away. It’s not a closely guarded secret or anything. Why should it be? It’s just that I can present myself easier over the web, and thus it’s not as noticeable. In person, or on the phone? Then, not so much.
A lot of people seem to think of it as a horrible thing. With the way it’s portrayed in the media, I guess I can understand why, but it doesn't have to be that way. I'm not by any means normal, but then again, what's normal in the first place? I don’t see autism as a curse. I don’t see myself as broken. And I do not want a cure. In some ways it’s a gift, and in others, it’s a real pain. I suppose it’s all depending on whose viewing? Some Autistics are great at math. Some have photographic memories, and can recall events in such detail, its baffling. Me? I'm a Poetess. It’s both my passion, and an outlet. It’s a gift. And it’s something I love. My thinking, and the pattern in which I see, or at least recognize, some things is a bit 'different.' But again, I don't much care. I am just a bit different and don't want to give it all up just because society doesn't like it.
To other young adults or teens with autism – it’s not a death sentence. It’s not the end of the world, and it’s by no means icky, or bad. Yeah, we may function differently. But it can be rewarding.
Kelly's son
Hello to everyone First Let Me Thank God For Giving Me Life. Then I want to thank God for my handsome son. My baby was born with Ebry's palsy and Cerebral Palsy. My baby boy do not let anything get in his way .He couldn't he would scoot on his leg, then one day he deside he would try it. Then later he diagnose with ADHD yes he is very active. I have him i karta so he channel his energy their. My baby is a loving an kind kid and I love him to peices.
Kristen
People just think he's unruly and I just let him run wild. When they stare at us I just give them a dirty look & tell them "My son has ADHD, what is your excuse?" This is me & my AWESOME son with Ghostbuster, Ernie Hudson.
|
|
Kimberly's Son
This is Matao, he's five years old and nonverbal with severe autism, but don't think that means he isn't VERY smart. If he wants to get to something, there is NOTHING anyone can do to keep it from him. I've never seen anyone who can figure things out and problem solve better than him. One positive thing about his disorder, he isn't like alot of kids his age when it comes to what he eats. Alot of five years olds won't touch fresh raw veggies. He loves them. Every night at dinner, he eats his veggies first, and often has seconds or even thirds of them.
.God can take the most difficult places. trials in your life and turn them around to bless you and bless others. God is greater than your life struggles, just give them over to him , after all the battles is not yours it belong to the lord.
|
Quartaki
I LIKE THIS THANKS SUMTIMES U NEVER NO WUT A PERSON GOES THROUGH TELL U GO THROUGH IT UR SELF YEAH THERES TEARS IT HURTS SUMTIMES U MAY EVEN SECOND GUESS YEAH SELF....BUT WIT A SMILE I LOOK UP AND I NO GOD GOT ME LIKE HE HAS U...KEEP DU FAITH CUZ IF U GIVE UP U NEVER NO WERE U COULD HAVE BEEN...THANX THUGGIZZLE :)
|
Michael
No looking back! BetterDays are ahead of me.. Of us. Keep your head up! #Blessed
Crystal's Son
My son is partially deaf an has allergies really bad an we go to the Dr three times a week. I look up to parents who put any kind of social life they use to have to care for there child who needs a lot more attention then healthy kids. It takes a lot of time an patience. We got word last week my baby will get the surgery that will help his ear problems but not promised his hearing will come back but it's possible he could lose more. But they are finally rebuilding him a new ear drum!!! prayers are all we are asking for!! It's a 2 month full recovery!! I am so blessed for my husband who has not once complained about having to pay all these Dr bills because I don't receive child support or Medicaid!!
|
My baby boy is having his surgery March 6th. I posted about him a while back he is the little boy in the blue shirt with the ribbons. Well his case is very rare and I'm pretty much freaking out behind closed doors. It's a 4-6 hour surgery and my husband won't be able to make it. Just asking for some extra prayers between now and then. Thank you!!
|
No two children with disabilities even those who have the same type of disability are alike. Nor are their needs alike, the primary need of a child with a disability is the same as that of all children: the love and support of his parents. Sometimes parents become so absorbed in the need to stimulate their child and to compensate for his disability, they forget the most important task is to love him and take pleasure in him as a human being. When a child sees that his parents enjoy being with him, his sense of self-worth is nourished. That growing sense of self-worth is an important measure of a parent's success in raising a child with a disability.
Lynn
No matter ur situation NEVER allow others to take ur JOY.....
U r Beautiful inside & out....
U r Beautiful inside & out....
Stephen Wiltshire
Stephen Wiltshire is a British architectural artist who has been diagnosed with autism. He is known for his ability to draw from memory a landscape after seeing it just once. His work has gained worldwide popularity. Here is a link to view more of his work.
http://www.stephenwiltshire.co.uk/gallery.aspx
http://www.stephenwiltshire.co.uk/gallery.aspx
|
Anything can be achieved with the right attitude toward Life
|
Nickolas Coke
A miracle child who defied medical odds. Born without a brain, Nickolas survived until he was three years old, living a remarkable life that surpassed expectations. Nickolas lived with a rare condition called anencephaly. It means he was only born with a brain stem. Most infants with this condition die shortly after birth.
Halloween Costume Ideas
|
|
|
Laura
This is great!Thank you for encouraging others to strive for the best, have hope for greater things regardless their situation &encourage others to never lose faith...our God is an awesome God filled with remarkable hope and undying love for all of us!We all have mountains to climb and each one we over come is a test of faith and greater knowledge ever know...keep striving for better things &always believe ;)
Kiki's Boys
I have two step-sons with disabilities..one has Asberger(form of autisum) and the youngest has adhd bad...the trials and tribulations we go through are rough at times but I love my babies ♥
Star's Son
my son is 8 n he has autism n moderate retardation i luv him no matta wat yes it takes patients n i knw dat GOD will continue 2 give me patients cuz he wouldnt of gave me a special son if he thought i couldnt handle it even though it took me sometyme 2 realize it n its sad 2 say but its tru...i juz found out bout a yr ago n da changes r hard not juz 4 me but 4 my son but as long as i continue 2 pray i knw everythang will b alrite.
True meaning of No Different Than You
Sharbett
Yes I have a brother who we all love dearly. He is mentally challenge he can't speak, on put on his clothes, but everything else he can do. My brother is sweet and loving and greedy as hell. Lol. But we wouldn't have it no other way. God made him different and that's how we except it. But in honesty he is no different from know one else. Thuggizzle once again thank you for making a difference, and may GOD continue to bless you always you deserve it my friend. Big Hugz
Tiffany's Son
This is my son 13 yr old son Robert. He has what they call high functioning autism. He is my life and my world!!
Did you know ...
Autism now affects 1 in 88 children
Autism prevalence figures are growing
More children will be diagnosed with autism this year than with AIDS, diabetes & cancer combined
Autism is the fastest-growing serious developmental disability in the U.S.
Autism costs the nation $137 billion per year
Autism receives less than 5% of the research funding of many less prevalent childhood diseases
Boys are four times more likely than girls to have autism
There is no medical detection or cure for autism
I wasnt aware of these facts until recently. Any comments or extra knowledge anyone can share?
Autism now affects 1 in 88 children
Autism prevalence figures are growing
More children will be diagnosed with autism this year than with AIDS, diabetes & cancer combined
Autism is the fastest-growing serious developmental disability in the U.S.
Autism costs the nation $137 billion per year
Autism receives less than 5% of the research funding of many less prevalent childhood diseases
Boys are four times more likely than girls to have autism
There is no medical detection or cure for autism
I wasnt aware of these facts until recently. Any comments or extra knowledge anyone can share?
Angie
Hi I'm Angela and this is my precious son! :-)His name is Ethan and he was diagnosed w/ Autism @ the age of 3 yrs old 2005 he is non-verbal Autistic which I think they consider to being severely Autistic. My son is my heart, I"ll die for him.
Down syndrome is a genetic condition in which a person has 47 chromosomes instead of the usual 46. In most cases, Down syndrome occurs when there is an extra copy of chromosome 21. This form of Down syndrome is called Trisomy 21. The extra chromosome causes problems with the way the body and brain develop. Down syndrome is the most common single cause of human birth defects. Anyone want to add any info, stories, pictures, experiences associated this this?
|
|
Salim
Today, I saw 1 of the most DEPRESSING things I've seen in a while besides the recent death of one my "childhood mothers...." Today I stopped by my storage to take some things out, I needed, and directly across from my storage was a man laying/SLEEPING IN HIS STORAGE.... #WOW....Damn times are HARD these days....I WAS KINDA IN SHOCK... This struck a cord with me because on a DAILY basis we take SO MANY things FOR GRANTED... I can't help but think I and so many others I know are just 1 OR 2 pay checks short of being in such or similar situation to this individual I saw today.... Fb family let's be more grateful to our CREATOR, even for the little things like eating food and drinking clean water EVERY SINGLE DAY, WHEN so many are not able... This disturbs my very SOUL AND dispite anything I may be going thru in my life, things can always take a turn for WORSE! Let's be mindful of others and how we never know what's going on in ones life at ANY given time... But also remember if it did NOT kill you, The Most High has blessed you with another day and opportunity to make changes for the better.... Today LORD, I PRAY FOR THE MAN IN THE STORAGE, I PRAY YOU BLESS HIM WITH BETTER DAYS TO COME, AND FILL IS HEART WITH A SPARK, SOME TYPE OF MOTIVATION TO NOT GIVE UP DESPITE HIS TOUGH TIMES, GIVE HIM "HOPE" IN HIS DARKEST HOURS... I PRAY FOR ALL OF MY FB FAMILY AS WELL AS MYSELF, FAMILY AND FRIENDS, I PRAY FOR OUR WELL BEING, SANITY, STABILITY, HEALTH AND DIRECTION DURING THESE TOUGH TIMES, IN THIS WORLD.
