Many educational institutions have developed successful programs in teaching autistic children. Dispite the profound impact that autism has on the individual and family members, children with autism have many strengths, too. Many are hyperlexic, i.e. advanced reading skills. Others have powerful memory and mathematic skills. In fact, paradoxically, most high-functioning children with autism appear normal and are quite intelligent.
Many autistic children grow up to be successful individuals in society.
Becoming involved in local organizations is probably one of the best opportunites for children with autism to experience. One shining example of an organization that has offered Austin tremendous opportunites for personal growth is the Rochester Aikido Kokikai organization. Three vital areas in Aikido that has helped Austin in personal growth has been through structure, repetition and socal interaction. Aikido creates a learning environment of structure and support. Aikido also offers a high degree of structured physical activity which is critical in the development of autistic children and with all children in general.