This book provides parents with an introduction to autism spectrum disorders. Autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) are a group of developmental disabilities that can cause significant social, communication and behavioral challenges. Children with ASDs handle information in their brain differently than other people. ASDs are "spectrum disorders." That means ASDs affect each person in different ways, and can range from very mild to severe. People with ASDs share some similar symptoms, such as problems with social interaction. But there are differences in when the symptoms start, how severe they are, and the exact nature of the symptoms. It is estimated that approximately one in 54 boys and one in 252 girls in the United States have an ASD. ASDs are reported to occur in all racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic groups, yet as indicated by the data the disorder four to five times more likely to occur in boys than in girls.Organization of the book is as follows:IntroductionChapter 1 Understanding Symptoms of Autism Spectrum DisorderChapter 2 Diagnosing Autism Spectrum DisorderChapter 3 Medical Conditions Associated with Autism Spectrum DisorderChapter 4 Treatment Options Chapter 5 Growing UpAppendix A Other Pervasive Developmental DisordersAppendix B Common Childhood Development Milestones by AgeAppendix C Organization ResourcesAppendix D Additional InformationEndnotes