Autism is a complex neurodevelopmental disorder that affects a person's ability to communicate and interact socially. It is characterized by restricted and repetitive behaviors, as well as difficulties with social communication. The characteristics of autism often appear in early childhood, and a reliable diagnosis is usually possible by the age of two. Every autistic person is unique, and no single definition can accurately describe an individual or predict their life experiences.
However, there are some common global characteristics within the population. These include hypersensitivity, food sensitivity and allergies, and difficulty with communication and social interaction. It is important to understand how to help a child with autism after their diagnosis, and identifying the characteristics of their case can be key to that. Some children with autism are educated in conventional classrooms, while others may require special education classes or specialized programs.
The three main characteristics of autism are poorly developed social skills, difficulty with expressive and receptive communication, and the presence of restrictive and repetitive behaviors. These features can be seen in videos that compare the behavior of children with autism to those without it. Adrienne Golden discusses the characteristics of the children with autism she works with and some of the early signs she looks for in the classroom. She emphasizes that each person with autism has their own strengths, abilities and functional level, and that their education must be adapted to meet their individual requirements. It is important to remember that autism is not a disease, but early intervention can equip children to handle some of the specific challenges they may face in the world at large.
Ultimately, understanding the three main characteristics of autism can help parents and caregivers get an accurate diagnosis for their child sooner.