Autism Spectrum Disorder, is a developmental condition which affects the ability of the individual in three main areas:
- communication
- socialisation, and
- flexibly of thought or imagination
It affects the way that individuals are able to interact with other people, and they often find the world a confusing place.
Find out more about Autism Spectrum Disorders
Assessment & Diagnosis
Receiving a diagnosis of an Autism Spectrum Disorder can be a distressing event for families – but sometimes it can come as a relief. In young children, a diagnosis leads to assistance which can dramatically improve their developmental outcomes.
For adults, a diagnosis can help to explain why they feel “different” and allow them to access support and assistance to improve their quality of life.
Read more about assessment and diagnosis
Pre-School Years
During the pre-school years, there is much that can be done to provide “early intervention” assistance to enable the child to reach their potential.
Find out more about funded programs, family support, therapies, support groups and more
Starting School – the Primary School Years
Starting school is an exciting, if a little scary time, for all children. For a child with an ASD and their parents, it is very important to prepare for the change and find the best schooling option, and get set up for success.
Find out about schools and how to prepare your child for a major transition
Changing to High School – the Teenage Years
As children grow into teenagers, the challenges change. Puberty and sexuality are important issues for the ASD teenager as they are for any other. And for those at the higher end of the IQ range, they may be confronted by the stress of exams.
Find out more about the complex teenage years
Leaving School – What’s Next?
This major transitional time for individuals with an ASD opens up questions of where to live and what to do next. It can be a worrying time for the individual as well as for their close family members, but it can also be a time to develop interests and new friends.
Discover the options
Adults on the Spectrum
Autism is a lifelong disorder and adults continue to face challenges as they go through different stages of their lives.
Where to live and who to live with is a big question for many. Is independent living an option?
For parents of adults, worries about who will look after their son or daughter after they have passed away are of grave concern.
Read about the resources available
Online Resources
All of the Information Sheets and other information resources are gathered here so that you can easily access them.
Online Resources
Tags: autism, autism spectrum, disorders