Understanding Autism Spectrum Disorders: Signs, Causes and Interventions

No doubt we all know someone with an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Based on data from 2016, the CDC reports that about 1 in 54 children in the U.S. is diagnosed with ASD, with boys being four times more likely than girls to be diagnosed. These children come from all kinds of backgrounds and vary greatly in terms of language, cognitive ability and other personal characteristics. But all deserve appropriate intervention, as early as possible, along with acceptance and inclusion in a community of kind, supportive, understanding adults and peers.   This week’s Mom Enough guest, Dr. Tom Frazier, joins Marti & Erin to help us learn what we need to know about ASD. A clinical psychologist, renowned researcher and Chief Science Officer of Autism Speaks, Tom discusses causes, effective interventions and promising implications of genetic research on ASD. But Tom also is the father of a teenage son with ASD and understands firsthand the importance of support for parents and other family members of children and adults with autism. Don’t miss this important, heartfelt conversation about this developmental disorder that touches so many lives.   HOW CAN WE SUPPORT CHILDREN WITH ASD? What experience have you had with children or adults who have Autism Spectrum Disorder? What new things did you learn from Dr. Frazier about possible causes? Specific things that are usually part of early intervention? And concrete ways you could support parents of a child with ASD?     WANT TO LEARN MORE ABOUT ASD? ❉ AUTISM SPEAKS. Autism Speaks is committed to supporting individuals with autism and their families.   ❉  AUTISM RESPONSE TEAM. The Autism Response Team (ART) is an information line for the autism community. Call or email for support: 1-888-AUTISM2 (1-888-288-4762) En Español: 1-888-772-9050 [email protected]   ❉ FINDING THE RIGHT “SENSORY DIET” FOR YOU AND YOUR CHILD: STRATEGIES FOR REGULATING EMOTION AND SUSTAINING OPTIMAL ENERGY. Kate Biederman, an occupational therapist from St. David’s Center for Child & Family Development, joins Marti & Erin to shine light on how we can be more aware and intentional in helping our children find the “sensory diet” that will allow them to be their best at home, school or on a trip to the mall.