What is Autism?
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental condition that affects communication, processing of information, and interaction with the world. Individuals with ASD often experience challenges in social interaction, communication, and behavior.
Key characteristics of Autism:
Social communication difficulties: Difficulty understanding and responding to social cues, initiating and maintaining conversations, making eye contact, and understanding non-verbal communication.
Restricted and repetitive behaviors and interests: Repetitive patterns of speech or movement, intense focus on specific topics or objects, and resistance to change in routine.
Sensory sensitivities: Unusual sensitivity to sensory stimuli like loud noises, bright lights, or certain textures.
Speech and language delays or impairments: Difficulty with speaking, understanding language, or using language in a social context.
Autism Spectrum:
ASD is a spectrum condition, meaning no two individuals experience it the same way. Symptom severity varies greatly, with a wide range of abilities and strengths within the autistic community.
Prevalence of Autism:
ASD is more common than you think. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 1 in 44 children in the United States are diagnosed with ASD.
Supporting Chinese Families in Hawaii
Hoku Autism Network (H.A.N) is committed to assisting Chinese families living with Autism in Hawaii by offering information, resources, and support. We aim to help create an inclusive environment where every individual and family affected by autism can enhance their quality of life. All of our services are available in Mandarin Chinese.