Here is my take on it:

In the old days we called it retardation or minimal brain dysfuntion or brain damage or ... and we cared for them at home (if possible) or they were institutionalized. As time passed we became even more sophisticated in our ability to diagnose those who were 'different'.

Now that most institutions and special programs have been eliminated, we have been given the term autism to cover a wide range of disorders. We are told he/she is on the high end or the low end of the autistic spectrum and mainstream them into public education facilities with very little support due to budget restraints.

I think it is counter-productive to continually try to find the 'cause'. We know that there are many causes but this doesn't help to solve the problem of caring and educating these children. I think you have to accept them as they are and do the best you can. That means advocating for their unique educational needs and support as they grow older.

Hats off to those of you who have 'autistic' children. They are a challenge but are very interesting people capable of learning. What we really need is to find ways of paying for the professionals who are able to work with these kids. It makes a difference!

Its also important that parents of autistic kids be given the funding that is necessary to provide respite care. Its a big job! All parents need a break but the parents of autistic kids need regular breaks so that, they too, can live a 'normal' life.