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Home › News › Archive

Monthly Archives: April 2018

28 Apr 2018

Commentary: Statement from May Institute Regarding CDC’s New Rate of One in 59 Children Identified with Autism Spectrum Disorder

National Autism Center Press Releases 0 1

Randolph, Mass. – The statistics just released by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) about the increase in the prevalence rate of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in U.S. children are an important reminder of work that still needs to be done.

There likely are several factors contributing to this increase. First, as noted by the CDC, ASD is now diagnosed more often among children of color, and in particular black children. This is actually good news, as it suggests that we are doing a better job identifying children in some historically under-reached communities. The continued increase may also be due to factors that have now been in play for several years, including increased overall recognition of the symptoms of ASD and the broadening of the diagnostic criteria for ASD.

The CDC findings also highlight an area for continued focus, and that is in how quickly a child receives an autism diagnosis. Although the vast majority of families reported developmental concerns before a child’s third birthday, fewer than half the children in the sample were diagnosed prior to the age of 4.

We must redouble our efforts to educate families and practitioners about autism’s early warning signs and diagnose children at a younger age. The earlier a child is diagnosed, the better the long-term outcome. Research shows that early diagnosis and intervention during the first years of a child’s life can significantly impact his or her long-term prognosis, particularly in the areas of language and social behavior.

We must also make information about the most effective evidence-based treatment for autism universally available, and create easier, faster, and more affordable access to that treatment for every child and family that needs it, across all communities, ethnicities, and socio-economic groups.

Autism is a life-long challenge, and we must focus on long-term solutions. As the groundswell of children with ASD continues to expand, we face an overwhelming number of individuals with autism moving into and through adulthood. They often face daunting challenges as they grapple with transitioning into adulthood, finding appropriate housing and support services, securing meaningful work opportunities, and building a life integrated into the broader community. In addition, there continues to be a lack of meaningful research of evidence-based interventions for adults.

Life outcomes for a growing number of Americans depend on decisions we make today to address the rising tide of autism spectrum disorder.


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04 Apr 2018

May Institute Promotes Awareness, Acceptance, and Appreciation of Individuals with Autism

National Autism Center Press Releases, Uncategorized 0 0

Randolph, Mass. – During Autism Awareness Month in April and throughout the year, May Institute and its National Autism Center are committed to raising awareness about autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and informing the public about evidence-based treatments that can improve the lives of people living with and affected by autism.

“We have been proudly serving individuals with autism across the lifespan to increase their independence and promote their dignity since our founding in 1955,” says Lauren C. Solotar, Ph.D., ABPP, President and CEO. “When The Autism Society of America launched the first Autism Awareness Month in April of 1970, May Institute enthusiastically joined in. And we wholeheartedly embrace this year’s theme of ‘moving beyond simply promoting autism awareness to encouraging friends and collaborators to become partners in acceptance and appreciation.’

“Making people aware that one in 68 children has been diagnosed with ASD is just the beginning,” continued Dr. Solotar. “It is vitally important that we all continue to learn more about these individuals, appreciate their gifts and talents as well as their challenges, welcome them into our schools and communities, and treat them with the respect they deserve.”

Toward that end, May Institute offers the following 30 articles about autism and related special needs from its library of resources, written in accessible and practical language by dozens of its clinical experts. These articles provide important information on a range of topics including diagnosis, early intervention, effective treatment, and everyday living strategies for individuals and families living with ASD.

A CLOSER LOOK AT AUTISM: 30 TOPICS, 30 DAYS

1. Get the Facts About ASD
2. How Is ASD Diagnosed?
3. Early Intervention
4. Evidence-based Practices
5. What Is Applied Behavior Analysis?
6. What Does That Mean? (Part 1)
What Does That Mean? (Part 2)
7. Functions of Behaviors
8. Reducing Self-stimulatory Behavior
9. Behavior Traps and How to Avoid Them
10. Communication Tools for Children with ASD
11. Collaborative Communication
12. Addressing Different Needs of All Children
13. Taking Turns
14. Helping a Child with ASD Prepare for Change
15. Helping a Child with ASD Adjust to Change
16. Colds and Flu
17. Seven Steps to Building Respectful Teaching Relationships with Children (Instructional Control)
18. Homework: from Stress to Success
19. The Pros and Cons of Using Prompts
20. Welcoming a Pet into the Family
21. Coming of Age with a Developmental Disability
22. Helping a Young Adult with Special Needs Develop Dating Skills
23. Helping People with Communication Disorders Make Themselves Understood
24. Managing Sensory Overload
25. Turning 22 and Autism
26. Helping Individuals with Autism Develop Friendships
27. Vacationing with an Adult with Intellectual Disabilities
28. Anxiety Disorders in People with Intellectual Disabilities
29. Aging Adults and ABA
30. Celebrating the Special Qualities of Individuals with ASD


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