The Autism Society of New Hampshire is dedicated to individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD). Individuals
with ASD have the right and capability to pursue happiness, make meaningful choices, and realize their full
potential. Through education, advocacy, and support the Society hopes to foster the understanding, unqualified
acceptance, and genuine appreciation of individuals with ASD
The Autism Society of New Hampshire is a non-profit organization consisting of individuals with ASD, families,
professionals, friends, and community members.
The Autism Society of New Hampshire is a chapter of the Autism Society of America.
What is Autism? Autism is a complex developmental disability that typically appears during the first three
years of life and affects a person’s ability to communicate and interact with others. Autism is defined by a certain
set of behaviors and is a "spectrum disorder" that affects individuals differently and to varying degrees. There is no
known single cause of autism, but increased awareness and funding can help families today.
In March 2012, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention issued their ADDM autism prevalence report. The
report concluded that the prevalence of autism had risen to 1 in every 88 births in the United States and almost 1 in
54 boys. The spotlight shown on autism as a result of the prevalence increase opens opportunities for the nation
to consider how to serve these families facing a lifetime of supports for their children.
Currently, the Autism Society estimates that the lifetime cost of caring for a child with autism ranges from $3.5
million to $5 million, and that the United States is facing almost $90 billion annually in costs for autism (this figure
includes research, insurance costs and non-covered expenses, Medicaid waivers for autism, educational spending,
housing, transportation, employment, in addition to related therapeutic services and caregiver costs).
Know the Signs: Early Identification Can Change Lives
Autism is treatable. Children do not "outgrow" autism, but studies show that early diagnosis and intervention lead to
significantly improved outcomes.
Symptoms
The characteristic behaviors of autism spectrum disorders may or may not be apparent in infancy (18 to 24
months), but usually become obvious during early childhood (24 months to 6 years).
As part of a well-baby/well-child visit, your child's doctor should do a "developmental screening," asking specific
questions about your baby's progress. The National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD) lists
five behaviors that signal further evaluation is warranted:
• Does not babble or coo by 12 months
• Does not gesture (point, wave, grasp) by 12 months
• Does not say single words by 16 months
• Does not say two-word phrases on his or her own by 24 months
• Has any loss of any language or social skill at any age
Having any of these five "red flags" does not mean your child has autism. But because the symptoms of the
disorder vary so much, a child showing these behaviors should have further evaluations by a multidisciplinary team.
This team may include a neurologist, psychologist, developmental pediatrician, speech/language therapist, learning
consultant, or other professionals knowledgeable about autism.
For more information please visit www.cdc.gov/actearly.
Want more information on Autism Diagnosis and Consultation?
What is Asperger's Syndrome?
IF YOU HAVE QUESTIONS ABOUT YOUR CHILD'S DEVELOPMENT:
New - Read the New Hampshire Commission on Autism Spectrum Disorders Findings and Recommendations 2008 - NEW
Visit the New Hampshire State Department of Education Bureau of Special Education web site
1. Talk to your child's doctor. If you don't have a doctor, call the VNA (224-4093).
2. For children under 3:
3. For children over 3:
4. Attend a Conference or workshop!
5. Learn more about Autism
With intensive intervention, 50 percent of children diagnosed with the disorder before the age of 5 go on to
attend mainstream schools.
Know your rights: The government mandates services.
Consult the National Information Center for Children and Youth With Disabilities
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