What is Autism?

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) refers to a broad range of conditions characterized by challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviors, speech, and nonverbal communication. No two people with autism have truly identical sets of strengths and challenges. There is wide variation in the diagnosis, and autism can present itself in many different forms.

Signs and Symptoms of Autism

Early diagnosis and intervention are crucial in managing autism effectively. Here are some common signs and symptoms.

Social Communication Challenges

Difficulty with back-and-forth conversations
Reduced sharing of interests or emotions
Limited eye contact or difficulty engaging in shared attention (e.g., not following where you point or look)
Lack of gestures such as pointing, waving, or nodding
Not responding to their name by 12 months of age
Delayed speech or language development, or loss of previously acquired words
Limited interest in social interaction, including reduced smiling or reciprocal play

Repetitive Behaviors and Routines

Repeating certain actions or movements, such as hand-flapping or rocking
Insistence on specific routines or rituals
Difficulty adjusting to changes in routine or environment

Focused Interests and Play Differences

Highly focused interests in specific topics or activities
Playing with toys in unusual ways, like lining up items or spinning objects
Challenges with pretend play or using imagination in typical ways

Sensory Sensitivities

Overreacting or underreacting to sensory input such as sounds, lights, textures, or movement

It’s important to remember that these symptoms can vary widely from person to person.

Treatment of Autism Spectrum Disorder

Diagnosing autism involves a comprehensive assessment by a team of specialists, including developmental pediatricians and child psychologists. This assessment typically includes a developmental screening, followed by a comprehensive diagnostic evaluation.

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is the gold standard in autism treatment, with decades of research showing it can significantly improve communication, behavior, and independence. ABA works by breaking down skills into manageable steps and using positive reinforcement to help children learn in a way that sticks. It’s highly individualized—each child’s program is built around their unique needs, strengths, and goals.

Research shows that early, intensive ABA can lead to meaningful gains:

Over 90% of children in quality ABA programs show improvements in key developmental areas
Up to 47% of children who begin ABA before age 4 make such substantial progress that they require significantly fewer supports later in life.

At Fox, we blend structured teaching with natural, play-based learning to help children build skills that matter—at home, at school, and everywhere in between.