Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), commonly referred to as autism, is a group of brain based developmental disabilities characterized by impaired social communication and interaction, and restricted, repetitive behaviors, interests or activities.

 Here are 5 facts about Autism:

1. Autism is a life long condition that causes children to be less responsive to stimulation in the environment they are in. This means that they might not be able to smile or share emotion.
 
2. It is possible that children who suffer from autism might show signs of abnormal behavior such as temper, staring into space or objects or simply rocking whilst sitting.

3. Autism can affect the child’s ability to learn. This means that they might have difficulties with some of the tasks we take for granted as part of growing up such as toilet training.

4. Autism can cause difficulties with communication. For example language might appear immature and stilted. It is also common for children to show what appears to be a lack of imagination and therefore struggling to interact with other children during play.

5. Autism can cause a child to become resistant to change. An autistic child can become focused and obsessive about a particular item or action. If change occurs then this may impact on the behavior of the child.