Autism
Autism is a complex neurological disorder that typically lasts throughout a person's lifetime. Once thought to be very rare, autism spectrum disorders are estimated to occur in an many as 1: 150 (one in every 160 people).  It occurs in all racial, ethnic, and social groups and is four times more likely to strike boys than girls. Autism impairs a person's ability to communicate and relate to others. It is also associated with impeding maladaptive behavior, rigid routines and repetitive behaviors. Symptoms can range from very mild to quite severe; That is why diagnosticians refer to a "spectrum" of disability.

Currently, there are no effective means to prevent autism, no fully effective treatments, and no cure. Research indicates, however, that early intervention in an appropriate educational setting can result in significant improvements for many young children with Autism Spectrum Disorders. As soon as autism is diagnosed, early intervention instruction should begin. Effective programs focus on developing communication, social, and functional life -cognitive skills.

Autism is one diagnosis within the larger category of Pervasive Developmental Disorders described in the The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition, Text Revision edition (DSM-IV, TR). Autism, along with related, but slightly different disorders of Aspergers Syndrome and Pervasive Developmental Disorder-Not Otherwise Specified, constitute the conditions commonly referred to as the Autism Spectrum Disorders. Two rare disorders, Rett Syndrome (a genetic disorder) and Disintegrative Disorder of Childhood are the other currently recognized pervasive developmental disorders.


WWW.ELIJA.ORG





            A non-profit organization dedicated to
            improving the quality of education and
            intervention services for individuals with
            autism since 2002



UPCOMING CONFERENCES!

July 18, 2008
Transitioning into Life
Presented by Peter Gerhardt, Ed. D

August 1, 2008
Advocacy Training - Understanding "What just happened?" at your IEP meeting

August 8, 2008
Introduction to Verbal Behavior and how it applies to teaching learners with autism functional communication  skills

August 18- 22 , 2008
ABA 5-DAY TRAINING : Teaching children with Autism
Using Applied Behavior Analysis
Hands on training component!


November 6, 2008
1 Day Wrightslaw Bootcamp
Presented by Pete Wright, Esq

Please see our CONFERENCE PAGE for details
on all our available workshops & seminars


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Save the date
November 14th 2008
Honoring
Julie Azuma
as our Chariot Award Recipient
For her extraordinary efforts in supporting families and educators of individuals with Autism
&
Parent Award Recipient
Suzanne Reek
For her contributions to the Long Island Autism Community
Elija's Annual Gala!

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Advocacy & Support Available
for newly diagnosed families or those needing help 
during IEP season, or placement recommendations.

By Appointment only
on select Wednesdays from 10 - 12 at the Elija Libray

Click here for more information