*Small disclaimer for anyone new to the site*

--In my Communications Disorders CD 315 class, we were asked to design a multi-genre website that answered a specific, speech-language pathology related question.  My question was, "What treatment strategies are effective in improving the communication skills of pre-school children with autism who do not communicate verbally?"   We created fictional characters around our disorder, and featured them in various styles of writing.    

I chose "autism" as my focus mostly because the disorder is of interest to me.  However, I also realize any knowledge I acquire on the disorder is valuable to my major.  Communication deficits is one of the main criteria in the diagnosis of autism.  I admit that the general concept of autism scares me.  In severe cases, an individual is almost locked inside himself or herself.  I could read everything ever written on autism, and I still couldn't fathom how it would feel. 

Because my aim is to work with children, I thought I should focus my project on the younger population.  Research emphasizes the long-term advantages of providing early intervention for children with autism.  The strategies that facilitate these children are absolutely fascinating.  I look forward to the future, when hopefully I will do more than just write about them.   

Communication is normally acquired innately and automatically.  For children with autism, it's not that easy.  Through communication, we share our beliefs, dreams, desires, and needs.  It's how we convey who we are to the people we love.  I believe if there is a chance that a child with autism could lead a better quality of life because of therapy or special education, than it should be provided for them.

Hopefully, I've effectively explained some of the characteristics and intervention strategies for autism through my "story."  Of course, choosing a favorite genre would be like choosing a favorite child -- impossible.  I'm still learning, so if there are any (hopefully minor) ; ) inaccuracies, I apologize.   And to all you who dedicate your lives reaching out to children with special needs -- God bless you!  You're my inspiration.