Autism education and awareness are in the news as the Wall Street Journal covered new research about the condition last Monday, May 3rd. The new study restates what many researchers, parents, and advocates know about the condition: Children with autism have larger brains than children who do not. It goes further, however, to indicate that the accelerated brain growth of children with autism occurs before age 2. This is an important discovery as it takes modern research a step closer to identifying specific causes for the illusive condition, as well as when physiological changes may trigger those causes.
This most recent autism study serves as a follow-up to a 2005 investigation by researchers at the University of North Carolina. Utilizing magnetic resonance imaging technology, researchers analyzed the brain shape and size of just under 100 children as they grew from 2 to 5 years in age. Of the children observed, 58 had autism and 38 did not. Children with autism exhibited enlarged brains through age 5, while those without the condition did not.
Following the study at the University of North Carolina, studies now indicate that children may develop autism at about 12 months old. This assertion is based in part on the similar social abilities that both children with and without the condition exhibit around the age of 6 months. It is not until about 12 months that children begin to show signs of autistic social behavior, such as deficits in interaction and communication.
It is hoped that more will be learned about autism as researchers begin to hone-in on the exact moments when the condition begins to develop in children. Pinpointing this transition may potentially indicate specific physiological changes that contribute to the development of the condition, which in turn could lead to prevention. While the condition remains illusive, one thing is clear: technology is here to help.
Autism Resources
Autism resources and learning devices are undoubtedly one area that stands to gain from ongoing research. Parents typically rely on a variety of autistic help videos to facilitate engagement and education, signaling to the increased role technology plays in fostering relationships amongst family members and those with disabilities. Program Development Associates features a variety of these highly effective resources, including:
A Mother’s Courage: Talking Back to Autism
Oscar winning actress Kate Winslet narrates this film, following a mother’s journey to unlocking the mind of her autistic son. Directed by Oscar nominee Fridrik Thor Fridriksson, Talking Back to Autism tracks mother, Margret, as she encounters other families struggling with autism, confides in leading experts and advocates, and discovers innovative new therapies to overcome the condition and embrace life with her son. Available in Closed Captioning.
This comprehensive DVD Set includes hours of interviews with leading researchers, doctors, and authors. DVDs include Asperger Syndrome, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Autism Times Two, and Straight Talk About Autism. Made with the professional in mind, this comprehensive collection of resources is a cost effective training tool that covers a multitude of autism and Asperger spectrum disorder issues.
This DVD resource confronts an obvious fact that may be underprepared for in America: Children with autism grow into adults with autism. Explore the world of Paul and Jamie, two adults with autism who enjoy the support of parents, life coaches, and other advocates. Available in Closed Captioning, A Place in the World illustrates the importance of support systems in the lives of autistic individuals, from child- to adult-hood.
*Facts and figures for this article have been derived from the Wall Street Journal article, “Link in Autism, Brain Size,” available at:
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052748704436004576299371343861618.html
