April is Autism Awareness Month - The Valley News

Elizabethtown ? It is beneficial for all parents to know the signs of Autism and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and take actions early if they are concerned about how their child learns, plays, speaks or acts. Autism signs can be seen before age three (3) and last throughout a lifetime and can range from mild to severe.

?About 1 in 100 children has Autism or ASD which can cause significant social, behavioral and communication challenges,? said Lucianna Celotti, Coordinator of the Children with Special Health Care Needs Program of Essex County Public Health.

ASDs are a group of developmental disabilities categorized as Autistic Disorder, Asperger Syndrome and Pervasive Developmental Disorder-Not Otherwise Specified. Children with an ASD may have unusual reactions to sensory input like sounds, smells, tastes, looks or feels; repeat words or phrases; get upset by schedule changes; have difficulty understanding other peoples? feelings; avoid eye contact or prefer to be alone.

?It is important for parents who have concerns about their child?s development to talk to their child?s pediatrician. Children can greatly benefit from early detection and interventions,? said Celotti.

Essex County Public Health (ECPH) offers several programs for children with special health care needs. ?Our Early Intervention Program helps children ages birth through 3 years develop important social, behavioral and communication skills. Our services are provided based on a child?s individual need and are designed to help parents and families nurture their children and encourage skills.?

Learn more about the ECPH Early Intervention Program and other programs for children with special health care needs, visit www.co.essex.ny.us/PublicHealth or call Lucianna Celotti at (518) 873-3500.

Source: http://www.valleynewsadk.com/news/2013/apr/26/april-autism-awareness-month/

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