Autism is a lifelong neurodevelopmental condition that affects how people communicate, interact with and experience the world. It is simply a different way of being. The term spectrum reflects the unique strengths and challenges autistic individuals have; no two people will experience autism the same.
At different times in a person’s life, they may have low support needs and/or have higher support needs. Children and adults on the autism spectrum typically have some combination of the following challenges to differing degrees:
Today approximately 1 in 50 Canadian children and youth aged five to 17 are on the autism spectrum. Source
Learn more about Autism
- The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5): Here you will find the clinical definition of and diagnostic criteria for Autism Spectrum Disorder, as defined by the American Psychiatric Association.
- Autism Canada: Autism Explained
- National Autistic Society, UK: What is autism
- Infographic: A one-page visual graphic from the Public Health Agency of Canada, illustrating how often autism occurs and in which segments of the population.
- Amazing Things Happen – by Alexander Amelines – YouTube An animated short film (4 minutes) that introduces and explains autism in a child-friendly manner.
A Note about Language
Autism Society Alberta accepts that there are strong opinions and beliefs surrounding the use of both person-first language (e.g. individuals with autism), and identity-first language (e.g. autistic individuals). We endeavor to make all feel represented by alternating usage of both forms throughout our website. Videos, articles, calendar events, and toolkit contents contain the language form preferred by the presenter, author, or source organization.
Find out more at the Autism Alliance of Canada
