This class provides essential information about the Autism Spectrum Disorder that every parent should know. New parents and parents who don't have concerns about their child's development learn how to recognize signs of Autism as early as 6 months old. Parents who recently entered into the "world of Autism" gain an understanding about the crucial "window of time" and what roles various professionals play in helping their children. All participants benefit from the invaluable list of resources and referrals they receive to utilize now or if needed in the future.

The Autism Spectrum Disorder is finally beginning to get media coverage, bringing the nation's attention to this disease that affects 1 in 150 children. Points of view from parents, pediatricians and founders of Autism organizations have been heard and most recently, celebrities such as Jenny McCarthy and Holly Robinson-Peete have been sharing about their personal lives living with their son's diagnosis of Autism.

Research is discovering symptoms may begin as early as 6 months. It is imperative for all parents to educate themselves about these early signs so they can observe their children's development and know whom to contact if they observe their child demonstrating characteristics of Autism.

I am Michelle Mintz, M.S., C.C.C.-SLP, a Speech-Language Therapist in Santa Monica specializing in working with children who have autism or display autistic like symptoms. I received a Bachelor of Arts in Speech and Hearing Sciences at the University of California at Santa Barbara and I earned a Master of Science in Speech-Language Therapy and Communicative Disorders at Boston University.

For the past twelve years I've worked with children and adults in schools, hospitals, rehabilitation centers, nursing homes, private homes and outpatient facilities.

Most significantly, I have created a unique therapy program in which I work with, educate and train parents and caregivers of these children to become "therapists" themselves, providing therapy all day long. I work with all ages but specialize in birth through 5, as these are the most critical years for developing brain connections that have not yet formed and for stimulating language and early development.