Autism Spectrum Disorders Lecture

According to the National Institutes of Health, autism is a complex developmental disability that causes problems with social interaction and communication. Symptoms usually start before age 3 and can cause delays or problems in many different skills that develop from infancy to adulthood. Healthcare providers think of autism as a "spectrum" disorder, a group of disorders with a wide range of similar features. One person may have mild symptoms, while another may have serious symptoms.

Winthrop-University Hospital's Parenting Today program will present a free lecture, "The ABCs of Autism Spectrum Disorders," on Thursday, June 4, 2009, at 7:00 PM. The program will be held at Winthrop's Community Outreach Center, 101 Mineola Boulevard, at the corner of Second Street in Mineola.

William Bryson-Brockmann, PhD, Chief of Behavioral-Developmental Pediatrics at Winthrop, will provide an overview on autism, including an explanation of some commonly held myths and misconceptions about children with Autism Spectrum Disorders. Current research results will be presented, as well as what role pediatricians should play in guiding treatment for children with autism. A question and answer period will follow.

Attendees are asked to arrive at 6:45 PM and park in the rear of the building. Admission is free, but seating is limited and reservations are required. To reserve your space, call 1-877-559-KIDS.

The Parenting Today program is coordinated by Children's Health Services and the Department of Pediatrics, part of the Institute for Family Care at Winthrop. For information on other programs at the Hospital, please call 1-866-WINTHROP.