Facts and Statistics about Autism Spectrum Disorder and websites that contain additional reliable information for your knowledge bank!

 I recently attended an informational forum about Autism Spectrum Disorder that was held by one of my student’s parents and other Autism advocates.  The agenda was to inform their church community and surrounding community about ASD because the church family had many children with Autism.  During this, I gained much information which I will share with you. I give you as a reader and learner credit for wanting to learn about ASD. Visiting this website and educating yourself can help every person with ASD and those who are touched by these unique individuals as they are more than just the statistics I am about to relay to you.  Thank you to Mrs. Lisa Fulton for extending the invitation to me to such a beneficial and informative forum!  

  

  1. 1 in 150 children are diagnosed with ASD which is approximately 1.5 million people in the United States.  In PA alone, there has been a 2000% increase in the last 15 years.  I am 23 years-old and that increase is within over half of my lifetime!!!  
  2. Research has shown that boys are diagnosed four times more than girls are, and that one in 94 boys will be diagnosed with ASD.  I had a classroom with three boys, however your child may have two girls with Autism in his/her classroom.  
  3. ASD affects 1 in 20 families directly or indirectly.  I know that my family is indirectly affected by Autism through me because now that I have been directly involved with families, I am constantly talking about my experiences and urging them to learn about it.  
  4. ASD knows no racial, ethnic, social, or religious boundaries.
  5. The Autism Society of America has recently reported that the cost of raising a child with Autism is approximately $3.5 to $5 million dollars.  This includes health care, insurance, housing, education, employment, transportation etc.  In my experience, this may also include the cost of clothing, food, shoes, and specialized appointments (doctor, hair, dental etc.) as these are different aspects of everyday life that children with Autism may be super sensitive to in one way or another.  For instance, you may be okay with adjusting the seam in your socks throughout the day, whereas a child this Autism may need seamless socks which cost more than regular socks.  
  6. Today, 60 families will be diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder.  Astonishing?  I think so!
  7. Here are some some additional resources that will help you build your knowledge of ASD:
Swings are a most enjoyable activity. You may recognize Mr. Charles, and that is the amazing student he worked with in my classroom.
This is our classroom swing and me making it extra fun with two of my wonderful students.
A modified basketball game was fun for short periods of time and offered a lot of opportunities for praise and fun!

  

Facts and Statistics

      ASD Help, Options & Parent Empowerment:  www.asdhope.org

    Autism Society of America:  http://www.autism-society.org/site/PageServer

      PA Dept. of Public Welfare (or in your state or region):  www.dpw.state.pa.us

     The New England Center for Children:  http://www.necc.org/autism_resources/fact_sheets.asp

    Kennedy Kreiger Institute:  http://www.kennedykrieger.org/kki_misc.jsp?pid=2326

    Texas Children's Hospital:  http://www.texaschildrens.org/default.aspx

    National Autism Association:  http://www.nationalautismassociation.org/index.php

 

  

  

  

  

 

  

  

  

  

  

Mr. Charles and Timmy enjoying swinging outdoors, basketball indoors, and me with Timmy and another student on our classroom swing!

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