Autism: An Epidemic?

Estimates, according to Nirvi Shah’s article in the Special Education Blog of Education Week, are that one in every eighty-eight children in the United States has been identified with what is called “Autism Spectrum Disorder.” Mark Roithmayr, president of Autism Speaks, says, “Autism has now officially become an epidemic in the United States.” Although the Center for Disease Control is involved in a study to attempt to discover risk factors that lead to the problem, little is known about why some many children have the disorder or why the percentage of Autistic children is increasing.  Researchers believe it is highly likely that the number of Autistic children in the U.S. may be underestimated even though some say that part of the increase may be due to better identification of children with Autism. If you have an autistic child in your classroom, you understand that not all who are diagnosed with this disorder have the same problems. Because of this, some are proposing a change in the definition of Autism, which would narrow numbers (omitting those with Asperger syndrome and pervasive developmental disorder) of children currently diagnosed as Autistic. The definition has not been received well among advocates for those who would be excluded from the definition, because getting adequate services for these children may become a problem.

Special Education Offers at PCI

PCI Education, which specializes in resources targeted for special education and struggling learners, is offering up to $125 off on orders placed by November 15, 2011. Discounts will be dependent upon the size of the order. Virtual catalogs available for browsing online include: Secondary Catalog (for Middle School, High School and Adult Learners), Elementary Catalog, Intervention and Alternative Solutions Catalog, ESL/ELL Catalog, and Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Catalog. A free funding guide is also available on the site.