This WEEK is Autism Awareness Week!  So on Friday wear blue.

Autism Affects

1 in 110 children

1 in 70 boys

It’s time for everyone to learn the signs!

In clinical terms, there are a few “absolute indicators,” often referred to as “red flags,” that indicate that a child should be evaluated. For a parent, these are the “red flags” that your child should be screened to ensure that he/she is on the right developmental path. If your baby shows any of these signs, please ask your pediatrician or family practitioner for an immediate evaluation (local early intervention and school districts can help too):

• No big smiles or other warm, joyful expressions by six months or thereafter

• No back-and-forth sharing of sounds, smiles, or other facial expressions by nine months or thereafter

• No babbling by 12 months

• No back-and-forth gestures, such as pointing, showing, reaching, or waving by 12 months

• No words by 16 months

• No two-word meaningful phrases (without imitating or repeating) by 24 months

• Any loss of speech or babbling or social skills at any age

*This information has been provided by First Signs, Inc. ©2001-2005. Reprinted with permission. For more information about recognizing the early signs of developmental and behavioral disorders, please visit http://www.firstsigns.org or the Centers for Disease Control at www.cdc.gov/actearly.

I have been getting excited about the up coming Walk for Autism, BUT, it’s on May 1st the same day as Mrs. Utah United States (and I have mandatory all-day rehearsal at Kingsbury Hall).  I’m so disappointed that I can’t go, especially because it is raising money for Clear Horizons Academy, the amazing school I am so privileged to work at.  I strongly encourage you and your families to support and attend these events!

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