According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) are a group of developmental disabilities that can cause significant social, communication and behavioral challenges. People with ASDs handle information in their brain differently than other people.
ASDs are “spectrum disorders.” That means ASDs affect each person in different ways, and can range from very mild to severe. People with ASDs share some similar symptoms, such as problems with social interaction. But there are differences in when the symptoms start, how severe they are, and the exact nature of the symptoms.
Learn more about autism:
- Identifying the Disorder
- Autism Early Detection Kit
- Screening and Scoring Guides
- Interventions Supported by Research
- Autism Information for Emergency Personnel
- Helping Your Child with Autism Sleep
- Sleep Deprivation and ADHD
- Our Guide to Sleep After Trauma
- How to Make a Bedroom Accessible for Disabilities
- The Connection Between Sleep and Learning