
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a developmental condition that influences how children view the world, communicate, and relate to others. The word “spectrum” highlights the diverse range of strengths and challenges each autistic child may experience, meaning no two individuals are exactly alike. Many children with autism process sensory information differently and may struggle with social cues that neurotypical individuals often understand instinctively. These differences are part of what makes autism unique and can affect how a child learns, plays, and connects with the world around them.