CDC Offers Educational Resources For Parents and Health Care Professionals

May 10, 2005

In the U.S., up to 1 in 166 children have an autism spectrum disorder (ASD). ASDs are a group of developmental disabilities. People with ASDs tend to have problems with social and communication skills. They may do things over and over and not want change in their lives.  Many people with ASDs also have unusual ways of learning, paying attention, or reacting to different feelings. ASDs begin during childhood and last throughout a person's life.

Recent studies have shown that we should find out if a child has autism or other developmental disabilities as soon as possible. Early action can increase a child's chance to reach his or her full potential. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), along with a group of national partners, have begun an effort to help parents learn more about how their child grows socially and emotionally as he or she grows physically. The campaign, “Learn the Signs. Act Early.” teaches parents about early childhood growth. It also talks about possible early signs of autism and other developmental disabilities.

Parents track their child's height and weight as the child grows. However, parents also need to note skills such as:

If parents see anything that seems unusual, they should talk with their child's health care professional. In some cases, the problem might go away as time passes. But, sometimes waiting too long could mean a missed chance to take action that could help.

Every child is different and grows at his or her own pace. But, most children are able to do certain things by a certain time. For example, a 2-year-old should be able to:

This campaign was researched not only with parents, but also experts in the field. Both know best how young children develop and grow. The campaign seeks to remind health care professionals to watch and measure when children reach certain milestones. It encourages parents and health care professionals to talk with each other and to act as soon as a delay in development is suspected. Outreach to teachers and childcare providers is planned for the fall of 2005.

Free resources are available in English and Spanish for parents and health care professionals. For more information or to request materials call 1-800-CDC-INFO (1-800- 232-4656) or visit www.cdc.gov/ActEarly .

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