What is Autism Disorder?

Autism is a complex developmental disability that typically appears before age three. It is a neurological disorder that affects the functioning of the brain in areas of communication and social interaction. Although the characteristics might be the same, each person is very unique. Autism is a spectrum disorder whose characteristics can present themselves in a wide variety of combinations from mild to severe. People use different terms to describe persons within the spectrum, such as: autistic tendencies, high or low-functioning autism, or autism spectrum. Whatever the term, children can learn and function productively given the appropriate educational plan.