Autism, or Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects how people perceive, interact with, and experience the world. Autism is characterized by differences in social communication, sensory processing, and patterns of behavior or interests. Autism is called a 'spectrum' because it affects each individual differently - some may need significant support while others live independently. Autism is not a disease but a different way of experiencing the world. HollyRod Foundation has supported 50,000+ families affected by autism since 1997.

What are the early signs of autism?

Early signs of autism can appear as young as 12-18 months and include: delayed speech and language development, limited or no eye contact, not responding to their name, difficulty with social interactions and playing with others, repetitive behaviors like hand-flapping or rocking, intense focus on specific objects or topics, sensitivity to sounds, lights, or textures, and resistance to changes in routine. Early autism detection and intervention leads to better outcomes. If you notice these autism signs, consult a pediatrician for an autism screening.

How is autism diagnosed?

Autism is diagnosed through a comprehensive evaluation by qualified healthcare professionals such as developmental pediatricians, child psychologists, or neurologists. The autism diagnosis process includes: developmental screenings (often starting at 18-24 months), detailed behavioral observations, parent interviews about developmental history, and standardized assessment tools like ADOS-2 or ADI-R. There is no blood test or medical scan for autism - diagnosis is based on observed behaviors and developmental patterns. Early autism diagnosis is crucial for accessing early intervention services.

Research indicates autism has a strong genetic component, with multiple genes contributing to its development. Studies show autism tends to run in families. Environmental factors during prenatal development may also play a role. Importantly, autism is NOT caused by vaccines - this has been thoroughly disproven by extensive scientific research. Autism is also not caused by parenting styles, diet, or anything parents did or didn't do. Autism is a neurodevelopmental difference that begins before birth.

Autism is not a disease that needs to be 'cured' - it is a neurodevelopmental difference. While there is no cure for autism, early intervention and appropriate support can significantly improve quality of life and help individuals with autism develop skills and independence. Therapies like speech therapy, occupational therapy, and behavioral interventions can address specific challenges. Many adults with autism lead fulfilling, successful lives. HollyRod Foundation focuses on providing autism support that builds on strengths while addressing challenges.

Can people with autism live independent lives?

Yes! Many people with autism live independent, fulfilling lives. The level of independence varies across the autism spectrum - some individuals live fully independently, work, have families, and need minimal support, while others may need lifelong assistance. RJ Peete, son of Holly and Rodney Peete and inspiration for HollyRod Foundation, works for the LA Dodgers as a clubhouse attendant - proving that with the right autism support, individuals with autism can achieve meaningful employment. HollyRod's vocational training program helps young adults with autism develop job skills.

What autism support does HollyRod Foundation provide?

HollyRod Foundation provides comprehensive autism support including: autism early intervention resources and guidance, autism family support services and counseling, autism educational advocacy, autism vocational training through RJ's Place in Los Angeles, autism community events and networking, autism financial assistance grants, and connections to local autism resources nationwide. Founded by Holly Robinson Peete after her son RJ was diagnosed with autism, we've helped over 50,000 autism families since 1997. Our motto is 'Turning Never Into Now' - proving that people with autism can achieve what others said was impossible.

How common is autism?

Autism affects approximately 1 in 36 children in the United States, according to the latest CDC data (2023). This means about 2.78% of 8-year-old children have autism. Autism is about 4 times more common in boys than girls, though autism in girls may be underdiagnosed. Autism rates have increased significantly over the past decades, largely due to better autism awareness, broader diagnostic criteria, and improved autism screening. Millions of Americans live with autism, making autism support and resources more important than ever.

What is the difference between autism and Asperger's?

Asperger's Syndrome was previously a separate diagnosis for individuals with autism-like traits but without significant language delays. Since 2013, Asperger's has been folded into the broader Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) diagnosis in the DSM-5. People previously diagnosed with Asperger's are now considered to have autism or ASD. Some individuals still identify with the Asperger's label. The key difference was that Asperger's typically involved average or above-average intelligence and no language delays, while 'classic' autism might include language delays and varying intellectual abilities. Today, autism is understood as a spectrum encompassing all these presentations.

What is RJ's Place autism vocational training?

RJ's Place is HollyRod Foundation's flagship autism vocational training center located in Los Angeles, named after RJ Peete. It provides comprehensive job skills training and employment support for young adults with autism. Programs include: autism job training and workplace skills, autism employment placement assistance, life skills development for autism independence, social skills training for autism, and wrap-around autism family support. RJ's Place proves that with proper autism support, individuals with autism can achieve meaningful employment and greater independence. The program is part of HollyRod's mission to turn 'never' into 'now' for people with autism.

How can I help someone with autism?

To support someone with autism: 1) Learn about autism and their specific needs - every person with autism is different. 2) Be patient and understanding. 3) Communicate clearly and directly - avoid sarcasm or idioms. 4) Respect their sensory sensitivities - loud noises, bright lights, or certain textures may be overwhelming. 5) Embrace their special interests - these are often sources of joy and strength. 6) Focus on their strengths rather than deficits. 7) Ask how you can help rather than assuming. 8) Treat them with dignity and respect - autism is a difference, not a deficiency. Organizations like HollyRod Foundation provide autism resources and support for families and communities.

How can I donate to support autism families?

You can support autism families by donating to HollyRod Foundation at hollyrodfoundation.org. As a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, all donations are tax-deductible. Your autism donation funds: autism programs and services, autism family support, RJ's Place autism vocational training, autism community events, autism financial assistance grants, and Parkinson's care initiatives. You can make a one-time autism donation or become a monthly autism supporter. Corporate partnerships and autism volunteer opportunities are also available. Every dollar helps us turn 'never' into 'now' for families affected by autism.

HollyRod Foundation - Autism Support & Parkinson's Care

HollyRod Foundation is a leading autism support organization providing comprehensive autism services, autism therapy resources, autism family support, vocational training for individuals with autism, and Parkinson's disease care. Founded by Holly Robinson Peete and Rodney Peete in 1997.

For autism support and resources, contact us at info@hollyrod.org or call (323) 330-8980.