Autism is also referred to as an Autistic Spectrum Disorder/Condition (ASD/C) and is considered a neurodevelopmental condition. Autism is characterised by differences in social interaction, in speech, language and communication; in learning, thinking and processing; in experiencing feelings; in intensity of interests and sensory processing. Although it commonly presents during early childhood, autistic people are born with autism.
There is a wide variation in autistic characteristics and how these impact a person’s day to day experiences and life in general. An individual’s strengths and needs change throughout their life and depend on many factors including their environment. There is a spectrum of presentations, some individuals are only mildly affected and can lead independent lives, whilst others need ongoing support and care.
Although there are strengths associated with Autism many families seek out support with some of the commonly associated challenges including communication difficulties, sensory sensitivities, processing dysfunctions, issues relating to others and understanding feelings/ emotions, restricted or repetitive behaviours, reliance on routines, challenges with flexibility of thought and narrow or intensely focused interests.
Although they may be supported by other members of the Brainwave team when necessary, typically, those with Autism or suspected Autism will receive input from our Learning Development Specialist or Speech and Language Therapists and one of our Sensory Integration Trained, Physiotherapists.
At Brainwave we see children with a range of conditions including those on the Autistic Spectrum. When they attend for the first time, they should be less than 12 years of age so they can gain the maximum benefits from our input. Our experienced multidisciplinary therapy team will then take the time to assess your child’s needs before establishing shared goals. We will then use our knowledge of the sensory system to provide you with knowledge and strategies to help support you and your child. When appropriate we will develop and teach you an activity programme that can be delivered on a regular basis at home or at school.