Coming up: World Autism Day 2 April 2008

The first ever international event for autism and Asperger's Syndrome will be observed with World Autism Day 2 April, 2008. 60 million people around the world are now diagnosed with autism and many in Africa and Asia have lack access to public services. People continue to confuse autism with mental illness and mental retardation. Children are kept at home without schooling due to lack of understanding about the autism spectrum disorders (ASD).

HBO is doing a lot to bring both hope and awareness to the problem with the airing of the documentary film Autism: The Musical. The film tells the story of some innovative therapy techniques initiated by the creative mother of an autistic boy. It premieres on HBO at 8 PM 25 March, 2008.

Measuring a child's growth is more than height and weight increases. At each step along the way, we must check our children to make sure they are developing in areas of play, communication and interaction. At 3 months, a baby should be watching faces intently. At 7 months a baby should respond to its own name. Not responding to one's own name is a serious communication problem. Talk to your health care provider about your concerns - early intervention is crucial to improved outcomes for autistic children. A 1 year old enjoys imitating others during play. A 2 year old enjoys pretend play. If you know a child who is not meeting these milestones, urge a referral.

Thank you cindy 47452 for use of photo My Lonely Boy.