Additional Special Education Information

Autism

What Is Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)?

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects how a person communicates, interacts socially, and experiences the world. It is called a “spectrum” because individuals with autism can have a wide range of strengths and needs.

Autism is defined by the American Psychiatric Association in the DSM-5-TR using two main areas:

  • Differences in social communication and social interaction.

  • Restricted or repetitive behaviors, interests, or sensory patterns.

Common Characteristics Seen Within The School Setting

  1. Social Communication Differences

  • Difficulty with back-and-forth conversation

  • Challenges understanding social cues

  • Limited peer interaction

  • Literal interpretation of language

  1. Behavioral or Sensory Patterns

  • Repetitive movements (e.g., rocking, hand movements)

  • Strong preference for routines

  • Intense interests

  • Sensitivity to sounds, textures, lights, or smells

Strengths Often Seen In Students With Autism

  1. Students with autism may demonstrate:

  • Strong memory skills

  • Attention to detail

  • Honesty and rule-following

  • Deep knowledge in areas of interest

  • Visual learning strengths (Do well with visual schedules)

Fun Facts About Autism Spectrum Disorder

  • Many students with autism have strong interests in specific topics. Passion helps students with autism become experts in specific areas of interest.

  • April is Autism Awareness Month.

  • Many well known individuals have been identified with autism:

    1. Temple Gradin - Scientist and author

    2. Anthony Hopkins - Award winning actor

    3. Billie Eilish- Singer

  • Autism can occur alongside other conditions, such as ADHD, Anxiety, Intellectual Disability, and Speech/Language differences.

What is the Difference between Autism Spectrum Disorder and ADHD? Can they have Similar Characteristics?

Autism and ADHD

When Should I, As A Parent Talk To The School?

  1. You may want to contact your child’s teacher or Orchard School's team if you notice:

  • Delays in verbal and nonverbal communication (Manifested over the developmental period and ).

  • Difficulty interacting with peers (Impacts school participation and overall educational performance).

  • Intense rigidity or distress with change (Impacts school participation and overall educational performance).

  • Sensory sensitivities (Impacts school participation and overall educational performance).

autism