The Autism Society, the nation’s leading grassroots autism organization, celebrates National Autism Awareness Month in April 2014. Focusing on the people, groups and policies that make “A Better World for Autism,â€, the Autism Society and over 100 affiliate organizations nationwide, along with the American autism community will shed light on a developmental disability that affects over 1.5 million people in the United States.
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a complex developmental disability that typically appears during the first three years of life and affects a person’s ability to communicate and interact with others. ASD is defined by a certain set of behaviors and is called a “spectrum disorder†because it affects individuals differently and to varying degrees. ASD is the fastest growing developmental disability with an average 17% growth rate per year. ASD occurs in all racial, ethnic and socioeconomic groups. Early diagnosis of ASD leads to early intervention. If children are diagnosed by age three and can receive specific, appropriate community-based services and supports as they age they are more likely to work and live on their own as independent adults.
Get Involved in April 2014 with National Autism Awareness Month
–Put on the Puzzle!
The Autism Awareness Puzzle Ribbon is the most recognized symbol of the autism community in the world. This month, the Autism Society encourages all friends and advocates to wear their puzzle ribbons in a display of support. your photo with us on Facebook to win prizes during contests throughout the month!