According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, approximately 1 in 110 children in the United States have Autism spectrum disorders (ASDs).
ASDs include Autistic disorder, or “classic” autism, which includes “significant language delays, social and communication challenges, and unusual behaviors and interests”; Asperger syndrome, which includes some milder autistic symptoms, but usually no physical or intellectual impairments; and Pervasive Developmental Disorder -- Not Otherwise Specified, which means some, but not all, criteria for autism and Asperger’s are met, but symptoms are milder, according to the CDC.
Local parents who have a child who has been diagnosed with autism or exhibits symptoms of the disorder can seek help from the Muscogee County Autism Support Group.
In addition to the group itself, which holds meetings from 6:30-8 p.m. on the first Tuesday of the month, MCASG has established several activities for children, and families, affected by autism.
Sensory Sensitive Screenings
Sensory Sensitive Screenings take place monthly, on a Saturday, at Carmike Ritz 13.
Because many autistic children have sensory issues, going to the movies is often difficult for a family, said Diane Pope, president of MCASG and mother to a 23-year-old son with Asperger’s.
The monthly screenings allow dim lighting, reduced movie sound and loosened rules regarding audience noise levels. Pope said that since many autistic children are also on controlled diets, they are allowed to bring in their own snacks.
“So many parents are so thrilled because it’s the first time they’re able to go to the theater as a family,” she said.
This month’s screening will be Saturday at 11 a.m. and the featured movie is “Alvin and the Chipmunks: chip-wrecked.”
Pope said they’re not always able to get new releases, but they try as often as possible. The screenings began last year and they bring in a decent crowd each week, she added. “Carmike has just been great. Families are pleased and grateful.”
Teen Social
Another new program is a Teen Social, which Pope said is a game night where teens and young adults can come together, play video games and socialize for a few hours, once a month.
“Teens and young adults (with autism) probably have the most difficult time,” said Pope, adding that many of them don’t have many friends.
Right now the Teen Social is being held on the second Thursday of each month, but Pope said that it might change. The best way to keep up-to-date is to join the Muscogee County Autism Support Group email list, she said.
Autism Hope Center
The Autism Hope Center was opened in 2008 on the Columbus Technical College campus. The center is a preschool, accepting children ages 2-6, that uses Applied Behavioral Analysis. Pope said ABA is the most proven form of therapy for ASDs and that early intervention is crucial to helping children with autism develop learning, social and communication skills.
“It’s very intense,” said Pope, “But the kids have fun. It’s a regular preschool to them. We do a lot of activities.”
Pope said the biggest difference between the Hope Center and a traditional preschool is the teacher-to-student ratio -- Hope Center includes a lot of one-on-one time -- and that each child is evaluated before entry and has a program designed for them.
