What is Autism?

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is one of the most common developmental disabilities in the world. Current reports state that ASD affects approximately 1 out of every 150 children. Boys are diagnosed with ASD four times more often than girls. Its prevalence rate makes it the second most common developmental disability - even more common than Down Syndrome. It is a lifelong disability with no known cure at this time. The symptoms of autism tend to appear very early in life, usually within the first three years. In general, these include:

Significant problems in language development
Significant problems with understanding and engaging in social interactions
Inconsistent sensory response patterns - for instance, periods when hearing appears to function normally and periods of apparent deafness
Uneven pattern of intellectual development
Significant, highly-focused restriction of interests and activities.

The symptoms and characteristics of autism can present themselves in a variety of combinations and with a range of severity from mild to severe. Thus two children with the same diagnosis of autism can act very differently form one another and have very different skills, abilities and functioning levels.

The cause of autism is yet to be proven. However, early intervention and education play a significant role in the development of an individuals maximum potential. If you are concerned that your child or someone you know is exhibiting signs of ASD, and live in the New York City area, please contact Abby Schechter, Education Department, 212-616-1857.

If you live outside the New York City area and would like to find more information about autism, please visit www.teacch.com.

Birch's Autism Program

We have over 33 years of experience educating and providing clinical intervention for children with autism and PDD. Services are provided for children from birth to age 16 in the Bronx, Brooklyn, Queens, and Manhattan.

Our work is based on current state of knowledge and the work of leading experts in the field of autism. We primarily use methods from TEACCH (Treatment and Education of Autistic and Related Communication Handicapped Children). This incorporates structured teaching, individualized instruction, and a focus on communication and socialization.

Recognizing that one approach cannot address the needs of all the individuals we serve, our programs reflect the unique aspects of autism and PDD with family education as the primary focus.