The US National Institute of Health (NIH) terms used to describe individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders(ASD) are Classic Autism, Asperger's Syndrome, and Pervasive Developmental Disability Not Otherwise Specified (PDD-NOS).

Parents may use the terms autism, Asperger's, and PDD to describe variations in the types, number or 'severity' of symptoms. People may assume that a child with Asperger's has 'high functioning autism' and a child with PDD has the most severe challenges in social interaction and communication, while those who have 'classic' autism fall somewhere in between.

It important to remember that children with any of these diagnoses may respond beautifully to appropriate interventions, support and encouragement no matter what old prejudices and misconceptions may have clouded outdated professional or public expectations.

Families may use the term 'autism' to include those with Asperger's and PDD while health care professionals may use the term Pervasive Developmental Disabilities to describe everyone who has a diagnosis on the Autism Spectrum - as well as including two other conditions, Childhood Disintegrative Disorder and Rett syndrome. It is not surprising that misinformation and miscommunication can misdirect parents, teachers, administrators and health professionals.

Each child with autism is an individual first, unique in personality, interest and abilities. No matter which effective intervention fits your family, it is education rather than training that makes a difference in a child's quality of life and richness of experience. Professionals, assistants and respite caregivers can all help to bring a better balance to a child and family's life.

Browse at your local bookstore, public library or online retailer for books or DVDs like: Challenging Behavior in Young Children: Understanding, Preventing, and Responding Effectively (2nd Edition) and DVD: Challenging Behaviors in Young Children - Techniques and Solutions

With autism diagnoses on the rise, UW establishes clinic for babies
https://www.washington.edu/news/2017/04/25/with-autism-diagnoses-on-the-rise-uw-establishes-clinic-for-babies/

Boardmaker and PECS Communication Alternatives
https://www.bellaonline.com/articles/art57783.asp

Positive Behavior Support in the Classroom
https://www.bellaonline.com/articles/art58507.asp

Aversive Restraints and Seclusion in Schools
https://www.bellaonline.com/articles/art60315.asp

Down Syndrome and Autism Dual Diagnosis
https://www.bellaonline.com/articles/art33178.asp