According to the CDC, “autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a developmental disability caused by differences in the brain.” This can be reflected in the way one behaves, communicates, interacts and learns.
Individuals on the spectrum will have a varied range of differences in their social communication skills and in restricted/repetitive behaviors. A few possible characteristics include delayed language, using someone’s hand as a tool, focused interest on a specific toy or object, repetitive body movements or hand mannerisms, and sensory seeking or avoiding behaviors. Additional characteristics may include epilepsy or seizure disorder, unexpected eating or sleeping habits or differences in motor skills.