Frequently Asked Questions: Autism Diagnosis, Early Intervention and Other Services
Q: What is autism?
A: Autism is a complex neurobiological disorder that is present from early childhood. Autism affects a person's ability to communicate, interact with others and is characterized by some repetitive behavior. The disorder is often accompanied by significant behavioral challenges.
Q: What is Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)?
A: Autism is termed a "spectrum disorder" because the degree of impairment varies from one individual to another. Throughout the spectrum, each person affected seems to have their own unique challenges.
Q: I’m concerned that my young child is not developing typically. How do I know if it’s autism?
A: All children develop at different rates. If your child has severe delays in communication, severe delays in interacting with peers or adults socially, and exhibits repetitive movement or activities, you should see your child’s health care provider. Often, children are referred to pediatric neurologists to help determine whether autism or another developmental disorder is present. You many have to ask your child’s health care provider for a referral to a pediatric neurologist.
Some Resources for Evaluation and Diagnosis
Q: What can I do at home to help my child?
A: PLAY and interact with your child throughout the day. Provide lots of physical movement, visiting playgrounds, pools or parks daily. Always have someone available to interact with your child: when you cannot be available, recruit family members, friends, or hire teenagers. Stress the importance of interaction. Reduce time in front of television and computer and focus on using language together and interactive play. Ask your health care provider for recommendations on local Speech, Occupational, Music and Play therapists. Ask therapists if they use Sensory Integration techniques and select therapists who do.
The national advocacy organization Autism Speaks provides links to many more resources on their website: www.autismspeaks.org
More Resources for Parents – Local
IMPORTANT: once you have received a diagnosis, CALL:
Call the nearest Missouri Department of Mental Health Regional Center and ask for Intake to discuss assistance for your child. There may be a waiting list for funding and services, so it is important to begin this process as soon as you have a diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder or another developmental disability.
St. Louis Area Regional Centers:
- SLRC – St. Louis County Office
211 North Lindbergh
St. Louis, MO 63141
Telephone: (314) 340-6500
- SLRC - St. Louis City Office
Wainwright State Office Building
111 N. 7th St. 6th Floor
St. Louis, MO 63101
Telephone: (314) 244-8800
- SLRC - Jefferson County Office
2330 North Truman Blvd
Crystal City, MO 63019
Telephone: (636) 931-5720
- SLRC - St. Charles County Office
119 Olympic Way
St. Peters, MO 63376
Telephone: (636) 926-1200
Other Resources
