Autism is a lifelong developmental disability, the cause of which is unknown. It is also a “hidden” disability- individuals with autism do not appear disabled in the same way that individuals affected by physical disabilities do.

Autism is diagnosed on the basis of the individual behaving in a “disordered” manner compared to their peers, in three key areas:

• Social Interaction- the individual’s ability to make and maintain social relationships
• Social Communication- the individual’s ability to understand verbal and non-verbal communication and to express/understand their own feelings and emotions 
• Flexibility of Thought- the individual’s ability to cope with changes in routine.

Some individuals with autism can also have average or above average IQs, whereas other individuals may have additional learning difficulties. 

WHAT IS ASPERGER SYNDROME?

Asperger Syndrome is a less severe form of autism. Individuals affected by Asperger Syndrome generally do not have additional learning difficulties, although they may have additional special needs, such as dyspraxia.   

WHAT ARE AUTISTIC SPECTRUM CONDITIONS?

Every individual who has autism or Asperger Syndrome is affected in a slightly different way. However, no matter what their ability, just like any other individual, if individuals with autism or Asperger Syndrome are given appropriate support they can function better in day to day situations. If this happens, autism or Asperger Syndrome can be regarded as a condition rather than a disability. 

WHY START UP A MULTIMEDIA CLUB FOR CHILDREN WITH AUTISTIC SPECTRUM CONDITIONS?

Many children (as well as adults) with autistic spectrum conditions enjoy being on computers! An excellent organisation called “Autism and Computing” explains how this affinity for computers can make them an ideal environment in which to promote communication, sociability and creativity for individuals with an autistic spectrum condition. Having children who have autistic spectrum conditions be able to engage in computer and multimedia related activities with other children allows the children to develop and extend their computer and multimedia skills and at the same time develop important communication, social, and creative skills. The children also have a lot of fun!   
For further details on the “Autism and Computing”, please visit: www.autismandcomputing.org.uk, which has several links to relevant and very interesting information.