Course Description for Autism Training
CEU AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDERS

Autism is a disorder among of a group of disorders known as autism spectrum disorders (ASD). ASD are classified as developmental disabilities that cause substantial impairments in social interaction and communication with the presence of unusual behaviors and interests. Many people with ASD also have atypical ways of learning and react differently to certain situations. The mental/academic abilities of people with ASD can vary-from gifted to severely challenged. An ASD is classified as beginning before the age of 3 and lasts throughout a person's life. Autism occurs in all racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic groups. Autism is four times more likely to occur in boys than in girls. CDC's Autism and Developmental Disabilities Monitoring (ADDM) Network (2007) found about 1 in 150 8-year-old children in multiple areas of the United States had an ASD.

The following areas will be addressed in this training: Diagnosis and Classification of Autism
Distinctive behaviors characterize autism.
Autism and Social Skills
ASD and Communication
ASD Behaviors
ASD and Living Arrangements
How to Autism Diagnosed
Development of a Child with ASD
Differential Diagnosis
Co-Morbidity
What Causes Autism?
Autism Over Time
Treating Autism
Detection of Autism
Prevalence
Rett Syndrome
Childhood Disintegrative Disorder
Communication Difficulties
Repetitive Behaviors
Problems That May Accompany ASD
Sensory problems
Mental retardation
Seizures.
Fragile X syndrome
Tuberous Sclerosis
Screening for Autism
Comprehensive Diagnostic Evaluation
Available Aids
Treatment Options
The Adolescent Years
Dietary and Other Interventions
Medications Used in Treatment
Anxiety and depression
Behavioral problems
Seizures
Inattention and hyperactivity
Adults with an Autism Spectrum Disorder
Living Arrangements for the Adult with an Autism Spectrum Disorder
Independent living
Living at home
Foster homes and skill-development homes
Supervised group living
Institutions
Research into Causes and Treatment of Autism Spectrum Disorders
Disorders/Vaccinations
Research on the Biologic Basis of ASD
The Children's Health Act of 2000-What It Means to Autism Research