Prajwalini Sahu
Senior Speech Therapist
MB LC Genius Mind, Bhubaneswar
“We are all different, but we all have that same spark that makes us light up”- Naoki Higashida
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neaurodevelopmental condition which is characterized by delay in communication, poor social interaction and repetitive behaviour. ASD is a liuefllobg condition which cannot be cured completely, but can be modified.
Recognizing early signs and addressing them with professional guidance and interventions can improve cognitive, language, social skills, enabling them to lead an independent life.
There are various types of thinking patterns that are related to ASD mainly categorised as visual thinkers, pattern thinkers and verbal thinkers- all having specific strengths. Consequently, the world treats them differently and are regarded by their challenges as opposed to their unique strengths. Further, visual, pattern and verbal thinkers naturally complement each other in a way that when one is challenged, the other is strong.
According to a 2021 study published in the Indian Journal of Pediatrics:
The estimated prevalence in India is around 1 in 68 children and boys are more commonly affected by Autism than girls, with a male-to-female ratio of approximately 3:1.
The importance of early detection is a breakthrough for several reasons:
- Early diagnosis allows in implementing early intervention strategies which is tailored to the child’s specific needs. This can eventually improve their vital areas such as communication, social skills and behaviour.
- Brain plasticity exhibits new forms of connections that helps the child to adapt more effectively. This period offers a prime opportunity for the child to develop, boosting cognitive performance
- Parental support and education provided parents a holistic understanding of their child’s needs and equips them with proper resource and knowledge.
