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Study: Eye Contact Declines Early in Babies Who Later Develop Autism… with autism. The researchers tested each infant 10 times between 2 and 24 months. Initial levels of eye contact for both groups were similar. But infants who did not develop autism increased their eye contact over time, while eye contact … steadily declined among the 13 infants later diagnosed with autism. (Twelve of the 13 were from the high-risk baby siblings group.) In addition, those infants whose levels of eye contact diminished most rapidly were the most disabled by symptoms of … In fact, earlier eye-gaze studies done without eye-tracking technology failed to capture the pattern. The new results also support the strong role that genetic and prenatal factors play in the development of ASD, Dr. Wang adds. “Some people have …

One family’s story of navigating their son’s Down syndrome/autism dual diagnosis … also made Jake eligible for additional services, such as the state autism waiver, which provides him with community supports. The diagnosis also helped family members and school- and community-based providers to better understand the reason … It was also through the organization that I learned about and subsequently joined the Down Syndrome Medical Interest Group (DSMIG) DS-ASD committee, which provides expertise to healthcare professionals who work with individuals with Down …

Karl Wittig, a retired electronics engineer, reflects on his late diagnosis and career journey… spectrum disorder. His diagnosis gave him a deeper understanding of his differences and allowed him to find a tight-knit support group of other autistic adults. In this Q&A, Karl talks about his journey to an autism diagnosis and his three secrets to … I had finally nailed it. After my diagnosis, I became very engaged in the autistic communities. I started going to support meetings, which I’ve been going to and facilitating ever since. I’m part of an organization now called Aspies for …

Meet Erin M.… I read about their experiences, and they gave me the words to recognize what I was going through.  What services and supports have you received since being diagnosed? How have they help you?  Occupational therapy – helped with creating sensory diet and troubleshooting issues like finding clothes too itchy or coming up with creative coping skills.  Group therapy – we work on social skills and communicating with other people, as well as things like goal setting and …

Assembling Your Team After a Diagnosis… It often takes a team of people to help support a person with autism. Your child’s team will consist of many different members. They will help you to address all … about your child’s treatment, education, recreation and health. Below is some helpful information on how to assemble this group of professionals. Medical team Your child should be supported by a pediatrician who understands developmental issues and who will serve as your child’s primary care provider. …

Meet Brandon W.… from the 2015 movie “Furious 7.” Brandon has made great strides since he was diagnosed with autism in 2018 through the support of his mom and big brother, L.J., 23, and the consistency of vital intervention services, including Applied Behavior … most parents, Kelli hopes her son can “live his life to the fullest knowing that no matter what, he’s loved.” With a sturdy support system around him and access to the crucial services he’s been receiving since he was diagnosed, Brandon is well on … like he should have been around age 2. I started to notice that he was very particular about little things. He would group things in order by shapes, colors and sizes - things most people wouldn’t even think about. He didn’t care much for …

Meet Elfy A. … about the newest trends in the world of technology, riding horses and even traveling, this 8 th grader has a rock-solid support system and big dreams! “He is an adventurous teenager and is always so happy. He understands English and Spanish … meet our advocacy goals by sharing their personal experiences and information on policies related to autism. This diverse group of advocates includes over 400 volunteers from 49 states and the District of Columbia and include people with autism, …

Catching up with Taniya H. … nature of the game on the court, but off the court she was adjusting to life in a new city with new coaches and a new group of teammates.   Today, as one of the senior leaders on the team, Taniya’s tenacious work ethic and passion for the … who she is and what she is capable of in this Q&A.  How important has it been to your personal growth to have found a supportive environment at the University at Albany and a head coach that understands autism and has the connection of her … and can accomplish your goals if you work hard. You can overcome obstacles and be whatever you want to be with the right support system and work ethic.   I take pride in being a representative for the autism community. I feel like as a D-1 …

Meet Jack M.… with autism at 18 months, Alison and her husband, Ryan, knew they not only needed to rely on one another for moral support, but they would need a trusted source of information and a welcoming community to lean during this journey into … and you really can feel alone. Even if you don't take all the advice that you see online, even if you don't connect with a support group right away, knowing they are out there is really comforting.   How did you and your partner process Jack’s autism …

Finding myself in autism… For the most part, I am shy and reserved but I am rather successful in life. I have a great job and a loving family that supports me. I think that sharing my story will help those growing up autistic to see they can lead very functional and fulfilling lives with the right support group in place. I also think that a lot of parents panic when they learn their child is autistic, but the truth is they …