Autism
Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are a group of severe disorders of development. They can disrupt social relationships and communication, play, and academic skills. ASDs usually lead to lifelong disability. About 1 out of 150 children are diagnosed with an ASD. Science shows that early detection of ASD, when followed by the right interventions, can lead to better outcomes for children affected by autism. These include improved language, social, and adaptive functioning, and a reduction in inappropriate behaviors. It is important to identify and refer children with ASD as early as possible to the Early Intervention Program.
More information about autism is available from the New York State Department of Health Bureau of Early Intervention's publication Clinical Practice Guideline on Autism/Pervasive Developmental Disorders: Assessment and Intervention for Young children (Age 0-3 years). This publication provides recommendations based on the best scientific evidence available about "best practices" for assessment and intervention for young children to parents, clinicians, and others interested in autism. Information is also available from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's autism information center at http://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/autism/.
- Autism A.L.A.R.M. Fact Sheet
- Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers (M-CHAT) - Autism Screening by Primary Health Care Providers for Toddlers in New York State
- Autism/Pervasive Developmental Disorders - Report of the Recommendations
- Autism/Pervasive Development Disorders (PDD) Training
These trainings provide recommendations for parents and professionals based on available scientific evidence about "best practices" for assessment and intervention for young children with autism and PDD. Trainings are presented by two early intervention training contractors. Autism/PDD course schedules can be found at the following sites:
Further early intervention training information can be found at Early Intervention Program Training.