Language Guide

This list below is going over a few key terms that we use within our group of Parents for Autism Awareness. These terms are a huge part of our community, each word can be very significant in learning more about autism. Below there are a few words that are abbreviated, reading the abbreviated definition can help you understand the meaning of that abbreviation. Take the time to read each definition.

· Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

A developmental disability that can cause significant social, communication and behavioral challenges. ASD has no specific look that sets them apart from other people. Anyone with ASD can behave, communicate or learn different from people who don’t have ASD. People with ASD can be extremely gifted with problem solving or even learning. Some ASD’s may face serious challenges that set them apart.

· Transitions

A change from one environment or activity to another. Transitions can be very difficult for a person with autism. Transitions to a person with autism can consist of just doing a daily task such as: putting clothes on, getting a different cup to drink from, or even just brushing their teeth. Transitions can bring out fears, anxiety or even just anger.

· Visual Schedule

A visual schedule is what tells a person with ASD what they can expect to do next in a certain task, or even what order they need to get things done in. A visual schedule can provide a solid foundation for more independence one will feel with seeing it. Visual schedules will help with following their daily routine.

· Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD)

A neurological condition that exists when sensory signals are not processed in order to appropriately responds to the demands of the environment. SPD can consist of each of the five senses we have. Many people that have ASD might have a food texture issue to where they can’t eat foods, they feel are not good. They could just see a food and right away not want to try it. Some SPD people have a hard time with loud noises. For example, if a person with ASD is getting their haircut and they hear the clippers, they might freak out because its too loud for them.

· Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA)

ABA therapy helps teach communication , play, social , academic, and self-care skills to people with autism. ABA therapists can also help with decreasing behaviors that can be harmful or affect learning for a person with autism. Applying these principles can help motivate a person with autism with social situations, or problems of social signification.

· Reinforcement

It is one main principle of ABA therapy. There are two types of reinforcements: positive reinforcement and negative reinforcement. A positive reinforcement is when a positive outcome is presented immediately following the behavior to increase the likelihood of the behavior to occur again. Negative reinforcement is when you remove a negative stimulus to decrease the probability of that behavior from occurring again.

· Self-Stimulatory Behavior (Stimming)

This means that it is a repetitive behavior. When a person with ASD shows repetitive behavior that means that it can be things such as: flipping a coin repeatedly, clapping, rocking back and forth, or even making a specific noise. Stimming can help someone with autism alleviate any stress that is caused by over stimulation.

· Elopement

It is to leave without permission or letting others know where you are going. Elopement can be very concerning, because someone who is eloping doesn’t process the danger or risks that can happen with leaving. Sometimes elopement can even be when someone who doesn’t want to do a specific task try’s to talk their way out of it.