New statistics report 1:45 with autism

The Center for Disease Control (CDC) just released new data for the number of children (under 8 years of age) diagnosed with autism. Numbers are from 2018, but that's the most recent report...and it's showing 1:44, which is up from 1:54 in 2016...and 1:150 in the year 2000.

There is a lot to digest here...but, essentially, it's thought that reports are getting more sensitive (not just that there are that many more cases out there...but that clinicians and parents are beginning to see the signs earlier, thus resulting in more cases).

With this increase comes the need for change. Change in the school setting, the therapy setting and at home. But how? I believe the primary answer is education...we need to focus on educating ourselves, our children and our teachers about neurodiversity (brain based differences like autism, ADHD, anxiety, dyslexia and more). What it is, what it looks like and what that means. It's a big, broad spectrum and not as narrow as historically typecast (we're a lot more than Rainman and Forest Gump!).

I just spoke on the topic of Neurodiversity at TEDxOcala this past November. The YouTube video will come out soon (end of 2021 I believe) and you bet I'll be sharing that here! I talk about the need for education, identification and support for this population. Please watch it and pass along, I truly believe that if we gain enough momentum true change can be made.

Anyhow, here's the article, give it a read and let me know what you think!