What is autism?

There are many definitions of autism which are available over the internet. Most of these are based upon sound research experience. We would urge you to look at the following descriptions of what is known as the Autistic Spectrum Disorder or ASD for short.

• What is Autism?
  This is a link to the National Autistic Society and is probably the easiest description to read and understand.
• Overview of Autism
  Stephen M. Edelson, Ph.D. Center for the Study of Autism, Salem, Oregon (USA).
• What can you say to someone living with autism.
  Your guide to understanding autism. National Autistic Society (UK). (PDF).

There are many definitions of autism which differ in a great many respects. As parents, we know a great many autistic children and we can honestly say that no two are the same. We do get a great many emails to this site, saying that a child might be autistic and asking us to comment or even confirm this.

One recent example is shown here :

I had my grandson this weekend and for the first time I noticed that he started this hand flapping thing when he was tired. A neighbor who was with me told me that was a definate sign of autism... Is that correct???

As a parent of an autistic child, I do ask you to read one of both of the following guides to autism, which are based on a great deal of research and experience:

Diagnosis of autism is not something that can ever be achieved via the internet. Our daughter was assessed over a complex two week period, which involved a psychologist, physiotherapist, speech and language therapist, medical consultant and many other trained professionals.

Autism a very complex condition and I have to say that there are very few 'definite signs of autism'.

Please do refer to trained professionals - after all, autism is a spectrum, ranging from very mild to severe impairment - we would advise that initially the child's parents contact their health visitor.