…Autism spectrum disorders are characterized by problems with social interaction and restricted behavior patterns. Signs of autism generally appear after a child is 18 months old, but before they are three. While all autistic children exhibit these symptoms, the degree to which they impact the child greatly varies.

Currently there is no cure for autism, treatments generally focus on increasing independence and quality of life. Autistic children generally take part in multiple therapy sessions including behavioral therapy, speech and language therapy, and occupational therapy. Other treatments, such as medications and diet therapy, may also be included in a treatment regimen depending on the child.

While research into what might be at the root of autism spectrum disorders is ongoing no cause has been found. As signs of autism usually appear around the time a child has their first vaccinations, some have argued that the vaccinations may cause Autism. Serious scientific studies have found not evidence of that vaccinations cause or contribute to the development of autism.

Clinical autism affects roughly 3-6 out of every 1,000 children. There are three behaviors that characterize autism: trouble with social interactions, issues with verbal and nonverbal communication, and repetitive behaviors or narrow, obsessive interests. Autistic children often have trouble communicating and may fail to develop the language skills necessary to communicate on a daily basis. Instead, they may use unusual noises and gestures to communicate their wants and needs.

Asperger syndrome is a milder autism spectrum disorder than clinical autism. Asperger's is less common than clinical autism and affects about 2-4 out of every 1,000 children. The most common characteristic of Asperger syndrome is a child's obsessive interest in one particular topic. Children with Asperger syndrome do not lose their early language skills and may develop a large vocabulary and formal speech patterns.