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CHC Resource Library

Autism Resources

Autism Resources You Can Trust

Autism is a complex neurodevelopmental condition that affects communication and social interactions. Find out more about how it’s diagnosed, some behavioral, social, and educational interventions as well as support for individuals and families.

A View of Autism Across the Lifespan

Click to interact with each stage of the lifespan and learn more.

The signs of autism vary widely. In young children these are some commonly observed early symptoms:

  • May not respond to name
  • Recognizes patterns
  • Not talking as much as others
  • Little to no pretend play
  • Strong memory for rote information (e.g., names of colors, shapes, vehicles)
  • Limited interests
  • Sensitive to sensory stimuli
  • May become easily aggravated
  • Little interactive play with same-aged peers
  • Repetitive movements

As children experience more social situations (like school), the lack of social skills may begin to become more apparent. Commonly observed traits may include:

  • Doesn’t seem to respond to others’ thoughts or feelings
  • Repetitive movements
  • Good vocabulary
  • Likes daily routines
  • Difficulty with transitions
  • Learns to read early but may struggle with comprehension
  • Hyperfocused on areas of interest to them
  • Memorizes easily
  • Uses facial expressions that don’t match their message
  • Difficulty making friends
  • Sensitive to sensory input
  • Excessive attention to detail

During the adolescent years, teens are exposed to new social situations, which can cause anxiety. Sometimes this is when girls (or those assigned female at birth) may start to show more social concerns.

  • Unusual challenges in developing friendships
  • Difficulty understanding subtle communication cues like tone, facial expression or body language
  • Focuses on patterns or details that others may not
  • Prefers to isolate and focus on specific interests
  • Unusually honest
  • Sensitive to sensory input
  • Appears to be rude without meaning to be
  • Lacks conversational skills
  • Difficulty applying learned information

Symptoms may be similar to those of adolescents. Adulthood is filled with new challenges, such as managing money, finding and keeping a job and more.

  • Trouble understanding what others are thinking or feeling
  • Uncomfortable in social situations
  • Strong visual thinking
  • Trouble making friends or dating
  • Very focused on a specific interest
  • Avoids eye contact
  • Difficulties with independent living
  • Participates in limited number of activities
The signs of autism vary widely. In young children these are some commonly observed early symptoms:
  • May not respond to name
  • Recognizes patterns
  • Not talking as much as others
  • Little to no pretend play
  • Strong memory for rote information (e.g., names of colors, shapes, vehicles)
  • Limited interests
  • Sensitive to sensory stimuli
  • May become easily aggravated
  • Little interactive play with same-aged peers
  • Repetitive movements
As children experience more social situations (like school), the lack of social skills may begin to become more apparent. Commonly observed traits may include:
  • Doesn’t seem to respond to others’ thoughts or feelings
  • Repetitive movements
  • Good vocabulary
  • Likes daily routines
  • Difficulty with transitions
  • Learns to read early but may struggle with comprehension
  • Hyperfocused on areas of interest to them
  • Memorizes easily
  • Uses facial expressions that don’t match their message
  • Difficulty making friends
  • Sensitive to sensory input
  • Excessive attention to detail
During the adolescent years, teens are exposed to new social situations, which can cause anxiety. Sometimes this is when girls (or those assigned female at birth) may start to show more social concerns.
  • Unusual challenges in developing friendships
  • Difficulty understanding subtle communication cues like tone, facial expression or body language
  • Focuses on patterns or details that others may not
  • Prefers to isolate and focus on specific interests
  • Unusually honest
  • Sensitive to sensory input
  • Appears to be rude without meaning to be
  • Lacks conversational skills
  • Difficulty applying learned information
Symptoms may be similar to those of adolescents. Adulthood is filled with new challenges, such as managing money, finding and keeping a job and more.
  • Trouble understanding what others are thinking or feeling
  • Uncomfortable in social situations
  • Strong visual thinking
  • Trouble making friends or dating
  • Very focused on a specific interest
  • Avoids eye contact
  • Difficulties with independent living
  • Participates in limited number of activities

Featured Autism Resources

Man and son

Parenting a Young Child with
Autism

Sometimes parents don’t want to have their child screened for autism because they are afraid of labels, stigma and limitations. But while overwhelming, diagnosis can also bring support, services and maybe even relief.

Young boy talking

Autism & Social Skills

In this presentation, learn how to help your child participate in groups at school and adhere to the social expectations in different environments. Presented by Melanie Hsu, PhD, Clinical Program Manager at CHC and Gina Baldi, MEd, Parent Trainer, Early Support Program for Autism (ESPA).

Autism & Your Child: Talking to Your Pediatrician

You are your child’s best advocate. You know your child best. If you have concerns about your child’s development, please speak with your pediatrician or another trusted specialist. Use this checklist to prepare for a conversation with your pediatrician or specialist.

Man and son

Parenting a Young Child with
Autism

Sometimes parents don’t want to have their child screened for autism because they are afraid of labels, stigma and limitations. But while overwhelming, diagnosis can also bring support, services and maybe even relief.

Young boy talking

Autism & Social Skills

In this presentation, learn how to help your child participate in groups at school and adhere to the social expectations in different environments. Presented by Melanie Hsu, PhD, Clinical Program Manager at CHC and Gina Baldi, MEd, Parent Trainer, Early Support Program for Autism (ESPA).

Autism & Your Child: Talking to Your Pediatrician

You are your child’s best advocate. You know your child best. If you have concerns about your child’s development, please speak with your pediatrician or another trusted specialist. Use this checklist to prepare for a conversation with your pediatrician or specialist.

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