When children are diagnosed as autistic, their behavior and communications are affected. Their ability to learn, understand and participate in social activities is different from others. Children with autism may avoid eye contact and game playing. Their language is usually delayed or impaired. Children with autism like routine, they do not like change.
Some children require long term supervision.
Early interventions, such as special education classes and individualized training programs help to lessen the severity of their condition. Children with autism require schooling that focuses on learning language and self help skills. When communicating with a child with autism, be direct, use simple directions, have the child ask for things by name and encourage interactions with children with a higher level of development. Reinforcements such as tokens, food or small toys to control behavior are successful. A disorder in this area can mean anything from seeing slightly out of focus, to seeing two or more of everything, to near blindness.