Autism Spectrum Disorder

What is autism?
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a developmental disorder that is often present from early childhood. Individuals with ASD have difficulties with reciprocal social communication and interaction, and can present with restricted, repetitive patterns of behaviour, interests or activities.

What does autism look like?
Autism can vary for each individual as the presentations of the disorder is placed on a spectrum, and individualised support is required to understand the level of support the participant may need.

Some of the signs may include but are not limited to the following:

Lining up toys
Repetitive behaviours (verbal sayings or non-verbal actions e.g., repetitive humming or hand flapping)
Delayed communication
Aggressive behaviour
Lack of interest in other children
Does not respond to name
Odd gaze or reduced eye contact
Predictable and repetitive play skills (e.g., using toys in the same manner and style repeatedly)
Sensory difficulties (trouble showering, playing on grass or wearing certain materials)
Seeking sensory stimulation (e.g., repetitively playing with water, touching toys with face or smelling certain objects)

If you have any concerns regarding the above examples, please contact us on 1300 989 147 or email us [email protected] to discuss this further. Please note these examples are not present in every child but may be symptoms to look out for.

Please do not hesitate to look at our FAQ page for further information.