Autism Resources and Information
A Look at the Numbers
What is autism?
Autism is a neurodevelopmental disability that affects how some people think, communicate and interact with the world. Autistic people have challenges with social communication and interaction, and they show restricted or repetitive behaviors or interests. People with autism may also have different ways of learning, moving, or paying attention.
Autism emerges early in development and can last throughout a person’s life, although behaviors may change over time. The abilities of people with ASD vary. While some autistic people may have advanced conversation skills, others may be nonspeaking. Some people with autism need a lot of help in their daily lives; others can work and live with little to no support.
How is autism identified?
Autism is diagnosed by professionals by assessing specific behaviors. Early identification can provide a longer period of time for interventions if needed to support a child's health and development.
Pediatricians monitor for signs of autism or developmental delay during children’s first well-child appointment. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends children be screened for ASD at 18, 24 and 30 months of age.
What if I am concerned my child is autistic?
As a parent or caregiver, you know your child best. Scientists and health care specialists have identified a list of conditions and milestones to consider if you are concerned your child may have delays or autism. If you are concerned about your child, talk with your pediatrician. S/he may refer you for a developmental or diagnostic evaluation.
The University of Kansas Health System in Kansas City, Kan., is the state's primary autism diagnostic facility and offers both an initial screening and a full autism diagnostic evaluation. To request a screening for autism spectrum disorder, call 913-588-1227 or request an appointment online. Also in Kansas, Wichita area residents can contact Wesley Care Physicians for autism evaluations.
Children’s Mercy Children’s Mercy in Kansas City, Mo., can answer questions and help schedule an appointment for autism screening or evaluation through the Developmental & Behavioral Health intake line at 816-234-3674.
Where else can I find help?
General questions:
For any additional questions, or to identify appropriate resources in your area, please contact the K-CART Autism Resource Center at 913-897-8471 or kcart@ku.edu.
Behavioral training for parents and providers:
OASIS Parent and Provider Training, which is administered by staff at the KU Medical Center, teaches parents, educators, and therapists how to use Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) with children with autism spectrum disorder and other disabilities.
The Missouri Parents Act is a parent training and information center in that state whose mission is to ensure that all children with special needs receive an education that allows them to achieve their goals. They can be reached online or at 1-800-743-7634.
Additional parent and caregiver resources:
Families Together provides Kansans with family support and resources online and by phone at 1-800-264-6343
The Disability Rights Center advocates for the civil and legal rights of Kansans with disabilities.
Community Developmental Disability Organizations (PDF) in Kansas are the single point of entry for an individual or family to obtain services through the developmental disabilities system in the state.
What resources are available for adults who seek an autism evaluation?
Autism spectrum disorder is usually diagnosed in children. However, as knowledge about autism expands, more adults are being identified as autistic. The first step in determining if you or a family member is autistic is to request an autism screening. Screenings can help determine if a more detailed assessment is warranted. Autism assessments can be completed by professionals including psychologists or physicians with expertise in autism.
At the University of Kansas Health System, appointments for screening can be made by calling 913-588-1227 or by requesting an appointment online.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Autistic Self Advocacy Network provided information for this page.