Autism Progress, Mom’s Education Linked

Some children with autism can become much more able to function over time, a new study finds. And the mother’s race and education make a big difference in which children improve. Researchers reached these conclusions based on records for nearly 7,000 California children. They looked at how well kids were able to function when they were diagnosed. They were divided into low, medium and high function groups based on their symptoms. The focus was on 3 areas. How well did they communicate? Could they get along with others and have friends? Did they have many repeated behaviors? Researchers also tracked changes over time. Most children improved in communication and social skills. Repeated behaviors tended to stay the same. But about 10% improved so much that they moved from low to high functioning.