What is autism?
zPathways - in development
Autism is normally identified and diagnosed in early childhood and as a child develops, but can also be diagnosed later in adulthood. Autism has a number of traits, which can be seen as being strengths and/or weaknesses. Not all people or children who have Autism will have the same difficulties and Autism will impact different people in different ways
Autism is a lifelong neurodevelopmental disorder which can effect a person's ability to interact and communicate effectively with others and the world around them. Autism is also known as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).
There is no one single cause of Autism, but it is known that Autism can run in families. Autism is not caused by medications or vaccinations and there is no cure for Autism.
In order for a diagnosis of Autism to be met, a child/person need to undergo thorough assessment by a group of health professionals. The assessment process can take some time, and the decision to diagnose a child with Autism is not taken lightly due to this being a lifelong disorder which can impact their day to day living.
Appropriate support for a child or young person is coordinated through the Getting it Right Planning Meeting process, usually arranged by staff in your school, depending on the age of a child or young person.