Autism Spectrum Disorder

What is Autism?
Autism is a neurological disorder that affects the functioning of the brain, resulting in a developmental delay. Some of the common characteristics are abnormal behaviour in social interaction, communication, reasoning and sensory processing. It is usually diagnosed at an early age between 3 and 10 years, but in some cases the effects are evident as early as 18 months. If the warning signs are visible in your child, do not wait to have him/her evaluated. Symptoms can range from Pervasive Developmental Delays, Asperger Syndrome to Classic Autism. Autism is more common in boys than girls. A child who receives intervention can improve to the point where obvious mannerisms fade away.

Early Indications of Autism

• Severe communication and language delay
• Poor social interaction
• Repetitive odd play or behaviour
• Poor eye contact
• Sensory sensitivity, i.e. walking on toes
• Disturbed sleeping patterns
• Aloof even as a baby
• Seems to be hearing impaired
• Resistance to learning and changes
• Laughing or crying for no apparent reason
• Unusual attention to particular objects or movements
• Not aware of danger
• High tolerance to pain
• Lack of or inappropriate facial expressions
• Fussy eaters
• Over-active
• Indicating needs by gesture
• Repetitive patterns of behaviour, activities and lack of interest
• Echolalia

Who is SNAP?
SNAP is a unique, child specific, one-on-one, integrated program for children with Autism and other special needs. It assists and supports parents and caregivers, educating them in correctly interpreting and adapting the child’s behaviour. The program recognises the individuality of each child and is geared to address his or her specific needs.

Mission
• To facilitate the child to develop to his or her full potential.
• To empower parents to better understand and relate to their child.
• To improve the quality of life of the whole family.
• To provide a service that is accessible to families within South Africa and abroad.
• To give glory to God.

SNAP is an integrated program focusing on children who require exceptional care and guidance regarding their learning and development. It’s a program for children who struggle to correctly interpret social and emotional cues.

SNAP specialises in Autistic Spectrum Disorders. Autism is best understood through a triad of impairments; social interaction, communication and imagination. SNAP endeavours to help each child understand and explore their world with confidence.

Security and consistency are what these children need. SNAP aims to create an environment where appropriate behaviour is reinforced, which allows the child to become more attentive and open to learn. The relationship between the tutor and the child evolves from one of being a facilitator, to one of being a mentor. Through mentorship a child can be given the tools to interact and express his or her ideas. SNAP improves the quality of the child’s life, which filters through to the family, the community and eventually society.

The program’s relevance is drawn from proven methods, such as Applied Behaviour Analysis, Sensory Integration, Relationship Development Intervention, the Greenspan Method and Verbal Behaviour.

It’s a language based program addressing all areas of a child’s development. This includes language, socialization, play, social skills, self-help skills, fine and gross motor skills, cognitive development, art, music and computer skills.

The program works together with other professionals including speech therapists, occupational therapists, physiotherapists and paediatricians.

SNAP continues to research different methods in order to ensure that the child’s optimal level of development is achieved. SNAP also provides information and support to parents and siblings. The child’s problems are addressed through a holistic approach.

Unique Approach

The child’s progress is strictly monitored and recorded. Regular feedback is given to parents and other professionals. This is done through regular meetings between parents, tutors and program managers, to discuss the child’s progress and to continuously upgrade the child’s program as he/she develops.

Research and the latest techniques are investigated on a regular basis and, where necessary, implemented into the Program. The Program has proven to be very successful, here in South Africa and abroad, and many children have been mainstreamed.

Who will Benefit from SNAP?

Children diagnosed with
• Pervasive Developmental Delay – Not Otherwise Specified (P.D.D.-N.O.S.)
• Asperger and other Syndromes
• Behavioural and Emotional problems
• Autism Spectrum Disorder
• Attention Deficit Disorder (A.D.D.) and ADHD