Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are a group of severe disorders of development.
They can disrupt social relationships and communication, play, and academic
skills. ASDs usually lead to lifelong disability. The Centers for Disease
Control and Prevention estimates that average of 1 in 110 children in the US
have an ASD. Science shows that early detection of ASD, when followed by the
right interventions, can lead to better outcomes for children affected by
autism. These include improved language, social, and adaptive functioning, and a
reduction in inappropriate behaviors. It is important to identify and refer
children with ASD as early as possible to the Early Intervention Program.
More information about autism is available from the New York State Department of
Health Bureau of Early Intervention's publication
Clinical Practice Guideline on Autism/Pervasive Developmental Disorders:
Assessment and Intervention for Young children (Age 0-3 years). This
publication provides recommendations based on the best scientific evidence
available about "best practices" for assessment and intervention for young
children to parents, clinicians, and others interested in autism. Information is
also available from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's autism
information center at
http://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/autism/.
This audio series from the American Academy of Pediatrics helps answer parents'
questions about autism spectrum disorders. It offers a collection of interviews
with developmental and behavioral pediatricians, a pediatric neurologist, autism
researchers, and parents of children with autism.
Sound Advice on Autism
Autism
A.L.A.R.M. Fact Sheet
Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers (M-CHAT) - Autism Screening by Primary
Health Care Providers for Toddlers in New York State
Autism/Pervasive Developmental Disorders - Report of the Recommendations
Autism/Pervasive Development Disorders (PDD) Training - These trainings provide
recommendations for parents and professionals based on available scientific
evidence about "best practices" for assessment and intervention for young
children with autism and PDD. Trainings are presented by an early intervention
training contractor. Autism/PDD course schedules can be found at the following
site:
Early Intervention Program Training
The NYS Interagency Task Force on Autism, a partnership of 11 state agencies,
developed NYACTS (Adults and
Children
on the Spectrum),
an all-inclusive resource that provides information for parents about Autism
Spectrum Disorders (ASD) activities in New York State. It makes available the
latest information on education, health, mental health, and developmental
disabilities services in an organized way to people seeking information. The
site offers reliable, current information about NYS services and supports;
important laws, events, and training; NYS's autism initiatives; and much more,
including FAQs and ASD news stories.
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