Autism Awareness

YOU Inc.'s  Autism Spectrum Disorder Services Are in the News 

Did you know that one person is diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder every 20 minutes? Check out the link below to see a recent New England Cable News story, in which Dr. Connie Flieger -- Director of In-Home Behavioral Therapy at YOU Inc. -- details our agency’s comprehensive services for youth on the autism spectrum.

NECN - YOU Inc. Autism Awareness Story

What Are the Signs of Autism?

Early signs of autism can be detected in infants as young as 6-18 months. For example, if a baby fixates on objects or does not respond to people, he or she may be exhibiting early signs of an autism spectrum disorder. Older babies and toddlers may fail to respond to their names, avoid eye contact, lack joint attention, or engage in repetitive movements such as rocking, or arm flapping. They may play with toys in unusual ways. Parents who notice these signs, or are concerned their children are not meeting developmental milestones, should contact their pediatricians and request a developmental screening.

Did you know?

The Autism Awareness Ribbon includes as its centerpiece a multi-colored puzzle piece. According to the Autism Society, the puzzle pattern reflects the mystery and complexity of the autism spectrum. The different colors and shapes represent the diversity of the people and families living with the condition. The brightness of the ribbon signals hope - hope that through increased awareness of autism, and through early intervention and appropriate treatments, people with autism will lead fuller, more complete lives.

Shining a Light on Autism

To kick off Autism Awareness Month at Y.O.U., Inc., our agency participated in Autism Speaks’ global campaign to     “Light It Up Blue”. Check out their website at www.lightitupblue.org to see some great photos of landmarks and buildings across the world that are participating in this unique awareness campaign.

 Local Autism Support Centers and Activities:

•  Autism Alliance of Metrowest
•  Autism Resource Center of Central Massachusetts
•  Community Resources for People With Autism
•  Community Events

A Few Quick Facts About Autism:  

• Autism is the fastest – growing serious developmental disability in the U.S.
• There is no medical detection or cure for autism.
• Autism is a “Spectrum Disorder”.
• Asperger Syndrome is a high functioning form of Autism.
• There are dozens of treatments for Autism but no cure.
• People don’t grow out of Autism.
• Families coping with Autism need help and support.
• Autistic people have many strengths and abilities.
• Children with autism need friends just like other kids.
• People with Autism need others to be patient with them.
• Autism is a developmental disability that affects people in all parts of our world.  Children with autism may have a different way of seeing, hearing or feeling things.  They can be black or white, rich or poor, tall or small.  More boys seem to have autism than girls, although both boys and girls have autism.  They might go to your school, live in your neighborhood or swim at your pool.