Disabilities
Autism
Autism is a complex developmental disability that typically appears during the first three years of life and is the result of a neurological disorder that affects the normal functioning of the brain, impacting development in the areas of social interaction, communication skills, and behavior.
Autism Looks Different for Everyone.
Both children and adults with autism typically show difficulties in verbal and nonverbal communication, social interactions and leisure or play activities. Sometimes kids with autism also have repetitive language (called echolalia); or hand flapping, twirling or rocking. Many people with autism have little or no eye contact and seem to be uninterested in relationships.
One should keep in mind, however, that autism is a spectrum disorder and it affects each individual differently and at varying degrees – this is why early diagnosis is so crucial. By learning the signs, a child may benefit from one of the many specialized interventions.
Autism is not a disease, and it’s not something that needs to be “cured.” It’s a difference in how a person’s brain works. People with autism can thrive when they have the right support, opportunities, and understanding from the people around them.
Autism Is a Spectrum
Understanding Pervasive Developmental Disorders (PDD)
Autism is one of the five disorders that falls under the umbrella of Pervasive Developmental Disorders (PDD), a category of neurological disorders characterized by “severe and pervasive impairment in several areas of development”.
Many professionals and parents refer to this group as Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASDs).
Each of these disorders has specific diagnostic criteria which have been outlined in the American Psychiatric Association’s Diagnostic & Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-V).
The five disorders under PDD are:
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- Autistic Disorder
- Aspergers Disorder
- Childhood Disintegrative Disorder (CDD)
- Rett’s Disorder
- PDD – Not Otherwise Specified (PDD-NOS)
Autism Newsletters, Handouts, & Information
As part of the Utah Parent Center’s Autism Information Resources project, a collection of autism information has been gathered.
Contact the Utah Parent Center for information on Utah support groups and other organizations related to autism spectrum disorders.
Autism Resource Lists
The staff of the Utah Parent Center have compiled a collection of resources for families in Utah’s autism community.
Looking for autism resources in your area?
Please call the Utah Parent Center at 801-272-1051 or Toll-Free in Utah at 1-800-468-1160 for current resources in your area that may fit your needs.
Autism Across the Lifespan
Explore how autism impacts individuals at every stage of life, from childhood to adulthood.
ASPIRE informational webinars on all things ASD
Free, expert-led webinars covering a wide range of autism-related topics and support strategies.
Adult Services
Resources and services tailored for autistic adults, including housing, healthcare, and independence support.
Website Resources
A curated collection of trusted autism-related websites, tools, and guides for families and caregivers.
Autism Support Groups
Connect with others who understand. Find local and statewide groups for parents, caregivers, and individuals with autism.
Autism Assistive Technology
Learn about helpful tools and devices that support communication, learning, and daily routines.
Autism Early Intervention
Find early support options that help young children build communication, social, and developmental skills.
Autism Employment Resources
Support and guidance for teens and adults navigating job training, employment, and workplace success.
Socialization
Programs and tips to help individuals with autism build friendships and engage in social experiences.
Autism Council of Utah
The Autism Council of Utah (ACU) is an independent council working to foster collaboration, communication, and learning among families and agencies. Our aim is to promote access to resources and responsible information for individuals of all ages who have, or are affected by autism, or related conditions. The Council will accomplish this by supporting statewide partnerships to collaborate on special projects, research, and training. Watch our video!
Autism Speaks
Autism Speaks is a national organization of autism science and advocacy organization, dedicated to funding research into the causes, prevention, treatments and a cure for autism; increasing awareness of autism spectrum disorders; and advocating for the needs of individuals with autism and their families.
AASPIRE – Academic Autistic Spectrum Partnership in Research and Education
AASPIRE has created a set of resources to help improve healthcare for adults with autism spectrum disorders. To view the Health Care Toolkit visit autismandhealth.org. Resources include downloadable forms and worksheets, healthcare resources, staying healthy, your rights, autism information, computer and internet access, medical information, and personalized accommodations report.