I've spent the past few weeks delving into how to design a home or classroom for someone with autism. This is the first post of my findings. Prior to going into details here are a few cursory notes about autism spectrum disorder just to make sure we're on the same page.
What Is Autism? What is Autism Spectrum Disorder?
According to the Autismspeaks.org website: Autism
spectrum disorder (ASD) and autism are both general terms for a group
of complex disorders of brain development. These disorders are
characterized, in varying degrees, by difficulties in social
interaction, verbal and nonverbal communication and repetitive
behaviors. With the May 2013 publication of the
DSM-5 diagnostic manual,
all autism disorders were merged into one umbrella diagnosis of ASD.
Previously, they were recognized as distinct subtypes, including
autistic disorder, childhood disintegrative disorder, pervasive
developmental disorder-not otherwise specified (PDD-NOS) and Asperger
syndrome.
ASD can be associated with intellectual disability, difficulties in
motor coordination and attention and physical health issues such as
sleep and gastrointestinal disturbances. Some persons with ASD excel in
visual skills, music, math and art.