What
is autism?

Autism

Autism is a Neurotype and part of the range of natural variation in human neurological development.

Human beings have a diverse range of Neurotypes — “Neuro” meaning brain. This diversity in human Neurotype is what we call “Neurodiversity”.

Neurodiversity (“Brain Diversity”) includes other diagnoses such as Attention Deficit Hyper Activity Disorder (ADHD), Dyspraxia, Dyslexia, Down Syndrome etc. and is a part of nature’s normal biodiversity. This biodiversity ensures all species have healthy ecosystems to thrive in. Autism is a Neuro (“brain”) developmental (“process of developing”) difference and may therefore be on a different developmental timeline.

Autistics may require a variety of supports in different areas at different times in their life across their lifespan.

At the Chinook Autism Society, we are proud allies of the neurodiverse community.

Common Signs or Symptoms

Resources