What Is Autism Spectrum Disorder?

Autism (say: AW-tiz-um) spectrum disorder (or ASD) is a difference in the way a kid's brain develops. Kids with autism may have trouble making friends and talking to other people.

Many people with autism have topics that they get very interested in. Some make certain movements over and over again, like flapping their hands or pacing back and forth.

What's It Like to Have Autism Spectrum Disorder?

A kid with autism might have trouble:

• talking and learning the meaning of words
• making friends or fitting in
• dealing with changes (like trying new foods, having a substitute teacher, or having toys moved from their normal places)
• dealing with loud noises, bright lights, or crowds

Kids also might move in an repetitive way (like moving their fingers or hands) or do the same thing over and over (like saying the same word). They might be fascinated by a certain thing, like dinosaurs, and want to talk about it all the time.

A kid with autism may have a little trouble with these things, or a lot. Some kids need only a little bit of help, and others might need a lot of help with learning and doing everyday stuff.

What Causes Autism?

Autism is something people are born with. No one knows exactly what causes it. It probably has something to do with a kid's genes and how their brains develop.

How Is Autism Diagnosed?

Doctors check toddlers and kids for signs of autism at every checkup. A parent may think that their child is having trouble with some things and tell the doctor. Maybe the child is old enough to speak but doesn't. Or a kid doesn't seem interested in people or or doesn’t play with toys very much.

When a doctor thinks a kid might have autism, they will work with a team of experts to see if it is autism or something else.

How Is Autism Spectrum Disorder Treated?

There is no cure for autism, but treatment can make a big difference. The younger kids are when they start treatment, the better.

Doctors, therapists, and special education teachers can help kids learn to talk, play, and learn. Therapists also help kids learn about making friends, taking turns, and getting along.

What if My Friend Has Autism?

It might be hard to be friends with someone who has autism, but try to be patient and kind. Kids with autism often don't understand playful jokes or being sarcastic. You may need to be very clear when you talk with them. It might be hard for them to understand how to be a friend. 

Some people with autism don’t feel that they have a disorder and don't want to change. They're proud of who they are and want to be accepted. But kids with autism may be teased, bullied, or left out because they’re different. Bullying and teasing are never the right way to treat other people, so stand up for classmates who are bullied. Tell grown-ups (like parents, teachers, or coaches) so they can help.

What Else Should I Know About Autism?

Your parents and teachers can help answer other questions you have about autism. 

If there’s someone in your class who has autism, try to get to know the student. They may have some challenges, but they also might have more in common with you than you think.