FAQs
- How many people in Nova Scotia have autism spectrum disorders?
- I am a parent who is worried that my child may have autism, but I'm not sure. What are some things I should look out for?
- I would like to borrow a book, but I am not a member. How do I become one?
- I would like to borrow a book, but I live in Sheet Harbour and I don't get into Halifax often.
- Does the Provincial Autism Centre endorse any particular therapies for autism?
- I have a few autism books/videos I would like to donate to the Provincial Autism Centre. How can I do that?
- Can I recommend book or video titles?
- I am a parent that really needs someone to talk to about what my family is going through.
- Is the Provincial Autism Centre a government agency?
1. How many people in Nova Scotia have autism spectrum disorders?
Current data indicates that ASDs occur in 1 of every 150 people (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, USA, 2008). Diagnostic criteria have been more clearly defined and broadened in recent years, and this does account for some increase in diagnosis. The apparent rise of cases is one of the many controversies surrounding autism.
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2. I am a parent who is worried that my child may have autism, but I'm not sure. What are some things I should look out for?
There are several "red flags" that parents and other caregivers can be on alert for. According to the National Alliance for Autism Research (NAAR), and National Institute for Child Health and Human Development in the U.S., children should be evaluated for autism if they exhibit these development delays:
- Does not babble or coo by 12 months of age
- Does not gesture (point, wave, grasp, etc.) by 12 months of age
- Does not say single words by 16 months of age
- Does not say two-word phrases on his or her own (rather than just repeating what someone says to him or her) by 24 months of age
- Has any loss of any language or social skill at any age
NAAR also highlights the following symptoms parents or caregivers might notice in small children. Parents should talk to their healthcare provider about an autism evaluation if they notice their child:
- Does not respond to his or her name
- Cannot tell or describe what he or she wants
- Experience any language delays
- Does not follow directions at all
- Appear at times to have a hearing impairment
- Does not know how to play with toys
- Has poor eye contact
- Appears to be in his or her own world
- Does not smile socially
- Has odd movement patterns
- Has unusual attachment to toys or other objects
- Regularly lines up toys or other items
3. I would like to borrow a book, but I am not a member. How do I become one?
Simply contact the Provincial Autism Centre and provide us with some mailing information, and we will send you membership information. Membership is $10 annually. Once you are a member, you can borrow books.
4. I would like to borrow a book, but I live in Sheet Harbour and I don't get into Halifax often.
If it is inconvenient for you to visit us at the Provincial Autism Centre, we can send library resources to you. Please contact us for details.
5. Does the Provincial Autism Centre endorse any particular therapies for autism?
The Provincial Autism Centre does not endorse any particular autism therapy, nor any particular theory regarding the causes of autism. An important part of our collection philosophy is to provide access to a variety of viewpoints on varying aspects of autism, including treatment and therapy options.
6. I have a few autism books/videos I would like to donate to the Provincial Autism Centre. How can I do that?
We are happy to receive donations of books or other information materials that are in keeping with our collection policy. Contact the librarian at the Provincial Autism Centre for more details.
7. Can I recommend book or video titles?
Yes. Many of our members recommend titles that we later purchase for our collection. Contact us with your suggestions anytime.
8. I am a parent that really needs someone to talk to about what my family is going through.
The Provincial Autism Centre is available to take your call. We offer resources, referrals and information sessions. Families frequently report that the info sessions provide invaluable information as well as the opportunity to meet other families and professionals. We focus on real services for people with autism through our programs and library.
9. Is the Provincial Autism Centre a government agency?
No. The Provincial Autism Centre is a non-profit association run primarily through private donations.
How many people in Nova Scotia have autism spectrum disorders?
A large epidemiological study recently completed in the Montreal area confirms the estimate of 1:160 to 166. This is equivalent to approximately 1 percent of the Canadian population.
The Provincial Autism Centre
1456 Brenton Street
Halifax, N.S. B3J 2K7
Telephone: 902-446-4995
Toll free in Nova Scotia: 1-877-544-4495
Fax: 902-446-4997
Email: info@provincialautismcentre.ca
Open: Monday to Friday 8:30am to 4:30pm
