Autism Spectrum Disorder
Recently, Townshippers’ Association received a short mandate to provide our community with information on autism spectrum disorder. It is with much enjoyment and excitement that we jumped into this program, as so many families we know are struggling to get information on this subject. In reality 1 in 50 children and youth are diagnosed with autism (Autism Speaks Canada). We thought it would be interesting to write a small article on the subject for you to learn more about this condition.
About Autism Spectrum Disorder
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disability that affects the brain. It can affect a person’s ability to interact with others, to undertake certain tasks, and can affect sensory processing and emotional regulation.
Autism is unique for everyone and not everyone will present identical characteristics of autism.
What causes Autism?
According to Health Canada, the root cause of autism is not known. However, it is believed that genetics and environmental factors can play a role.
It is important to mention that, contrary to certain beliefs, autism is not contagious, is not caused by vaccination, and is not caused by parenting style.1
What are some signs of ASD?
Early signs of autism are often observed by a parent or a legal guardian. If you have concerns with your child or if a loved one has autism, we recommend you discuss this with a health professional. An early diagnosis is optimal for receiving treatments and intervention plans that will support the needs of the autistic person.
Autismcanada.org offers many tools, such as the “Autism Physician Handbook”, which can be completed at home and discussed with your doctor.1
According to Autism Speaks Canada, indicators of autism vary greatly. Some children may show signs at a very early age (infants), where in others, it can become a little more obvious around the age of 2 or 3. As mentioned above, not all children with autism show all the signs. As a matter of fact, many children who aren’t on the spectrum can also show a few signs.3 For this article, we have chosen to highlight only a few of the many signs and symptoms described in literature. Health Canada highlights certain signs and symptoms someone with autism may express:4
Up to 12 months of age:
• Little to no babbling or eye contact;
• More interest in objects than people;
• Appearing not to hear when spoken to;
• Unusual play with toys; • Repetitive movements their body.
Up to 2 years of age:
• Very specific areas of interest; • Limited social interactions with others;
• Signs of behavioural such as self-isolation;
• Repetitive use words.
At any age:
• Little eye contact;
• Intense reactions changes in routine;
• Distinct reactions to: o Tastes; o Smells; o Lights; o Sounds; o Textures.
Luckily, there are some local resources available that can support you. If you have concerns about your child having autism, you can talk with your family doctor, talk to an intervener at your local CLSC or, at any time, call 811.
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Light It Blue Campaign
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On April 2, 2024, we encourage you to wear blue for the cause! The “Light It Blue” campaign was launched by Autism Society Canada, and is intended to help raise awareness and support for Autism. It has become a worldwide campaign. Why not join in the fun?
Townshippers’ Association is dedicated to supporting families and caregivers who are caring for someone with autism. So, stay tuned! We will be back in April to share more information with you. In the meantime, if you have any questions or concerns about this article, or you would like help finding local resources to support you, please contact us at 819-566-5717.
1. Health Canada. Autism: About, causes and co-occurring conditions. 2023. Retrieved from the World Wide Web: https://www.canada. ca/en/public-health/services/diseases/ autism-spectrum-disorder-asd.html. Accessed: March 17, 2024.
2. Autism Society Canada. Autism Explained: Early Signs. Toronto, 2021. Retrieved from the World Wide Web: https://autismcanada.org/autismexplained/early-signs-characteristics/. Accessed: March 17, 2024.
3. Autism Speaks Canada. Early Indicators For Young Children. 2024. Retrieved from the World Wide Web: https://www.autismspeaks.ca/ early-indicators-for-young-children/. Accessed: March 17, 2024.
4. Health Canada. Autism: Signs and symptoms. 2022. Retrieved from the World Wide Web: https://www. canada.ca/en/public-health/services/ diseases/autism-spectrum-disorderasd/signs-symptoms-autism-spectrumdisorder-asd.html. Accessed: March 17, 2024.
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3355 College St., Sherbrooke 3-584 Knowlton Rd., Lac-brome
819-566-5717 450-242-4421