Autism has been around since the Early 1900’s. In the 1940’s , Dr. Leo Kanner from John Hopkins University used it to describe behaviors in Children. Around the same time a German
Scientist, Hans Aspersers, identified a similar condition now called Aspersers syndrome.
Now, Autism Spectrum Disorder is the current term which is describe in the Diagnostic Statistical Manuel V (DSM V). Some children are very severe while others are considered high functioning. Where a child falls on the spectrum depends on the child’s challenges with communication, social interaction and behaviors. One thing is for sure early detection and intervention is critical to a child’s development.
According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC), the rates of children with Autism is growing. Recently, diagnosis has grown from 1 in 88 children diagnosed with autism to 1 in 68. One caveat is getting children screened early, typically before age 3, and treated if needed. Early detection and access to therapy can increase developmental growth. Due to socio-economic circumstances, some families are unable to provide children with the necessary medical and educational care. Jaylen’s Journey will work to alleviate burdens these families have by working with existing childcare-focused agencies through promoting awareness, disseminating information about early detection, and direct low-income families to support services. In addition, this organization will provide families and programs with educational tools to help their child meet developmental goals.
According to the CDC Community Report on Autism in 2014, in Maryland 1 in 60 children are diagnosed with Autism, 1 in 53 in North Carolina and in New Jersey 1 in 46. This is higher than the national average of 1 in 68. Jaylen’s Journey wants to raise awareness in communities where children are affected and educate about the benefits of early intervention and detection.