Autism is a complex neurodevelopmental condition that is perceptible during the first three years of age. A child with autism finds it difficult to decipher straightforward things like comprehending, perception, problem solving, speech, antisocial behaviour and social interaction. This slows down their normal development and functioning significantly making them dependent on their caretakers.
High Functioning Autism is term given to people with autism who are considered to be cognitively “higher functioning” (with an IQ of 70 or greater), than other children suffering from this disorder.
Some signs of High Functioning Autism:
- Delayed initial speech, but functional communication as child ages
- Difficulty in social interaction – unable to relate to peers
- Obsessive behaviour over appearance, hygiene, fears and social affairs
- Sensitivity to emotions
- Susceptible to outbursts or meltdowns when too tired or overly prompted
- Oral, vestibular, proprioceptive, tactile, auditory and visual sensory issues
- Lack of comfort in social situations – seeming ‘grown up’ for their age. Not being able to understand jokes, sarcasm, humor, or usual shenanigans among peers
