According to the Autism Society Of America (ASA), Autism is a complex developmental disability that typically appears during the first three years of life and is the result of a neurological disorder that affects the normal functioning of the brain, impacting development in the areas of social interaction and communication skills.

Both children and adults with autism typically show difficulties in verbal and non-verbal communication, social interactions, and leisure or play activities. Autism is one of five disorders that falls under the umbrella of Pervasive Developmental Disorders (PDD), a category of neurological disorders characterized by “severe and pervasive impairment in several areas of development."

The United Nations General Assembly unanimously declared 2 April as World Autism Awareness Day to highlight the need to help improve the lives of children and adults who suffer from the disorder so they can lead full and meaningful lives.

This video introduces you to the general symptoms of Autistic children and how Autism is perceived in Pakistan. Dawn speaks to Sadaf Shahid from D.H.A Clinic and Saima Haq, the Principal of SCEI (Special Children’s Educational Institute) on Autism and special education.