Autism, part of a group of disorders known as Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD), is a complex neurobiological disorder that typically lasts throughout a person's lifetime. The disorder is characterized by varying degrees of impairment in communication skills and social abilities including repetitive behaviors. Symptoms range from mild to severe. One milder form of the disorder is known as Asperger Syndrome. Other developmental disorders that fall under the Autism Spectrum Disorders include Rett Syndrome, Pervasive Developmental Disorder (PDD NOS), and Childhood Disintegrative Disorder (CDD). Parents are usually the first to notice unusual behaviors in their child or their child's failure to reach appropriate developmental milestones. Some parents describe a child that seemed different from birth, while others describe a child who was developing normally and then lost skills. If you have concerns about your child's development, do not wait.  Speak to your pediatrician about getting your child screened for Autism.

No two autistic kids are alike, but there are some signs that many of them share and that experts agree may be as recognizable as early as the toddler years, or even sooner. Children on the spectrum generally have difficulty relating to others; they may hardly speak, and if they do, they may not communicate in ways that other people can easily understand (they may screech loudly when they're upset, for example, instead of crying). They do not usually sustain eye contact as it's too intense for them, and they have trouble reading social cues. They are also prone to repetitive behaviors, flapping their hands constantly or uttering the same phrase over and over again. They may also be more sensitive than a normal typical developing child, or dramatically less so, to sights, sounds and touch.

Autism is a spectrum disorder, which means it manifests itself in many different forms. A diagnosis can range from mild to severe, and though children who have it (i.e. are on the spectrum) are likely to exhibit similar traits, they are also as individual and different as the colors of a rainbow, each one managing a grab bag of symptoms. While one child may rarely speak and have difficulty learning how to read and write, another child may be high-functioning and able to attend classes in a mainstream school. Yet another child may be so sensitive to the feel of fabric that all tags must be cut off before he wears a piece of clothing, while his friend who is also autistic may not have any sensory issues at all.

1 in 36 children are autistic in the United State, according to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). That adds up to almost 1.5 million people in the United States. Government statistics show the rate of Autism rising 10 to 17 percent annually. 

Unfortunately, the numbers appear to be continuing their upward climb. In fact, it is the most prevalent developmental disorder to date; according to the Centers for Disease Control, of the approximately 4 million babies born every year, 24,000 of them will eventually be identified as autistic. Also, recent studies suggest boys are more susceptible than girls to developing Autism. In the United States alone, 1 out of 36 boys are suspected of being on the spectrum, with perhaps more going undiagnosed to this day. That said, girls appear to manifest a more severe form of the disorder than their male counterparts.

No one knows for sure. Though it's understandable to expect that a disorder as common as autism would have a known cause, in many ways it's still quite mysterious. Recent studies suggest a strong genetic basis for autism -- up to 20 sets of genes may play a part in its development. Genetics alone, however, can't account for all the cases, and so scientists are also looking into possible environmental origins, as well as other triggers.

The debate about whether vaccines might cause autism continues, but extensive research shows no connection. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Institute of Medicine (IOM) have reviewed the evidence and concluded that there is no causal link between vaccines containing thimerosal and autism in children. For more information, please visit the CDC's website: CDC Vaccines and Autism.

Autism is not a disease, so there is no "cure." It is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects communication and social interaction. While reputable experts have not agreed on a treatment that can reverse the diagnosis, various interventions can help individuals with autism develop skills and improve their quality of life. Current approaches include early intervention programs such as Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) and play therapy, which have been successful for many children, enabling them to lead fulfilling lives. Scientists are actively researching autism, and advocacy groups are pushing for increased funding, such as through the Combating Autism Act, to support this important work. While a definitive cure remains elusive, ongoing efforts continue to bring hope for better solutions in the future. For more information on autism and interventions, please visit the CDC's website: CDC Vaccines and Autism.

Don't wait--talk to your doctor about getting child screened for autism. New research shows that children as young as one may exhibit signs of autism, so recognizing early signs and knowing developmental milestones is important. Early intervention is key.

You can start by making sure he has a reputable healthcare team by his side. That means finding doctors, therapists, psychologists and teachers who understand and have experience with autism and can respond to his shifting needs appropriately. Ask your child's pediatrician to recommend a developmental pediatrician with whom you can consult about the next step. She, in turn, can guide you toward various intervention programs and suggest complementary therapies. It also helps to plug into an already existing network of parents facing the same challenges as you.

First, be kind to yourself. Learning that your child has a developmental disorder, especially one without a known cause or cure, can be overwhelming. It is important to acknowledge and accept any feelings that arise from this diagnosis, and remember not to place blame on yourself. It would have been impossible to prevent autism. The next step is to gather accurate information about the disorder. Knowledge is empowering, and understanding autism can help you navigate the challenges ahead. However, it is also essential to take breaks from focusing on autism when it feels too overwhelming. If you find that the impact of the diagnosis is significantly affecting your well-being, consider speaking with a counselor or therapist. You are not alone in this journey, and seeking support can make a difference.

Under the law, all Lebanese children should have access to education free from discrimination. Lebanon’s Law 220 of 2000 grants persons with disabilities the right to education, health, and other basic rights.

The specific educational setting will depend on where your child falls on the autism spectrum and their individual needs. Rest assured, there are various supports and resources available to help your child thrive in their educational journey.