Autism spectrum disorder as a lifelong condition

Most of us are familiar in some way or another with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). We have seen news reports, watched films or documentaries trying to explain this puzzling condition and showing examples of a child's unusual social, communication and repetitive behaviours. We may know a child with ASD or have a child with ASD. Recent evidence suggests that about one per cent of the entire population (one in 100 people) fall somewhere on the spectrum (1-2). Whilst we still understand relatively little about this complex condition, we do have a good idea of how it can affect the daily lives and education of children.